Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates on Wednesday, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), healthcare, and agriculture. Their meeting revolved around India’s technological growth and its vision for 2047.
Gates shared insights on social media platform X, praising India’s advancements across multiple sectors. “I had a great discussion about India’s development, the path to Viksit Bharat 2047, and exciting advancements in health, agriculture, AI, and other sectors that are creating impact today. It’s impressive to see how innovation in India is driving progress locally — and globally,” Gates said.
I had a great discussion with @narendramodi about India’s development, the path to Viksit Bharat @ 2047, and exciting advancements in health, agriculture, AI, and other sectors that are creating impact today. It’s impressive to see how innovation in India is driving progress… pic.twitter.com/UoM6myxraD
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) March 18, 2025
Responding to Gates’ remarks, PM Modi described their conversation as “excellent,” emphasizing their discussions on technology, innovation, and sustainability. “Always a delight to meet you, Bill Gates! Our discussions on innovation, sustainability, and the path to Viksit Bharat 2047 were enriching. India is committed to leveraging technology for a better future for all,” Modi posted on X.
As always, an excellent meeting with Bill Gates. We spoke about diverse issues including tech, innovation and sustainability towards making a better future for the coming generations. https://t.co/XLZ86wDILA
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 19, 2025
Key Meetings With Indian Leaders
As part of his visit, Gates engaged with top Indian officials, including Union Health Minister J P Nadda. Their conversation focused on the collaboration between the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Indian government in strengthening healthcare systems. Nadda acknowledged the foundation’s role in improving maternal health, immunisation, and sanitation efforts in India.
“We look forward to renewing our memorandum of cooperation, furthering our shared commitment to ensuring affordable, accessible and quality healthcare for all citizens,” Nadda stated on X.
Gates also met Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to explore AI-driven solutions for improving healthcare, education, and agriculture. Naidu expressed confidence in the foundation’s ability to support the state’s long-term development vision, ‘Swarna Andhra Pradesh 2047.’
AI, Railways, and Agriculture on the Agenda
During his India visit, Gates held discussions with Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw. The talks focused on AI applications for agriculture, healthcare, and education. Vaishnaw later shared on X, “AI solutions for better crops, stronger healthcare, smarter education & climate resilience—MoU soon between India AI Mission & Gates Foundation.”
Additionally, Gates visited Parliament amid the ongoing Budget Session. Earlier in the week, he met Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan to discuss AI’s role in transforming farming techniques, food security, and rural development. The Gates Foundation continues to collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, with new initiatives under consideration.
