Global AI Perspectives and a Product Manager’s Learnings from PM Narendra Modi France and US Travels

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a transformative force shaping industries, economies, and governance across the globe. As countries race to harness the potential of AI, collaboration and knowledge-sharing have become essential.

One of the most significant global AI discussions happened during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to France and the United States. These diplomatic engagements were not just about politics; they provided deep insights into how nations are approaching AI and what product managers (PMs) can learn from these strategic moves.

As a product manager navigating the evolving AI landscape, there are valuable takeaways from PM Modi’s travels that can help shape strategies, decision-making, and the future of AI-driven products. Let’s dive into these insights.

AI as a Strategic Priority for Nations and Businesses

PM Modi’s discussions with world leaders, business executives, and policymakers underscored one key point: AI is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.

• The US and France are investing heavily in AI through research, startups, and enterprise adoption. Governments are encouraging AI innovation, ensuring that their industries remain competitive.
• India is emerging as a global AI hub, with its vast talent pool and increasing AI adoption in businesses and governance.

Lesson for Product Managers

As a product manager, this reinforces the need to prioritize AI in product roadmaps. Whether you are in fintech, healthcare, or e-commerce, integrating AI can enhance user experiences, automate processes, and provide a competitive edge.

The Global AI Collaboration Wave

During his visits, PM Modi engaged with tech leaders from Silicon Valley and French AI research centers, highlighting the growing need for international cooperation.

• France is emphasizing AI ethics and responsible AI development, ensuring that AI technologies align with human values.
• The US is leading in AI innovation, with major tech giants pushing boundaries in generative AI, automation, and deep learning.
• India is playing a bridging role, fostering AI partnerships while focusing on inclusivity and AI for social good.

Lesson for Product Managers

AI innovation is not confined to one country or company. Successful products will emerge from global collaboration, leveraging diverse AI models, datasets, and research.
What PMs should do:

• Explore global AI partnerships—collaborate with AI startups, research institutions, and enterprises worldwide.
• Stay updated on AI regulations across different countries—compliance and ethical considerations will shape AI adoption.

The Role of AI in National Security and Governance

A significant aspect of PM Modi’s discussions revolved around AI’s role in national security and governance. AI-driven technologies, such as facial recognition, predictive analytics, and cybersecurity, are being integrated into national defense and administration.

• France is focusing on AI for cybersecurity and defense, ensuring technological sovereignty.
• The US is leveraging AI in military applications, border security, and cyber resilience.
• India is rapidly adopting AI in governance, with AI-driven citizen services, smart cities, and defense tech.

Lesson for Product Managers

AI is not just about business—it is shaping governance, security, and public services.
What PMs should do:

• Consider AI’s impact on privacy, security, and ethics while building AI-driven products.
• Ensure compliance with evolving AI regulations—privacy laws like GDPR and India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Bill will influence AI adoption.

AI’s Role in Job Creation and Workforce Transformation

One of the biggest concerns around AI is its impact on jobs. During his travels, PM Modi addressed how AI can be a job creator rather than a job destroyer.

• The US is focusing on AI-driven upskilling programs, ensuring that the workforce adapts to automation.
• France is investing in AI education, ensuring that AI talent remains competitive.
• India is positioning itself as a global AI talent hub, with initiatives to train millions in AI-related skills.

Lesson for Product Managers

As AI transforms industries, PMs must focus on AI-powered upskilling and human-AI collaboration rather than pure automation.
What PMs should do:

• Design AI products that complement human skills rather than replace them.
• Invest in AI literacy within teams—train employees to work alongside AI rather than fear job displacement.

AI for Social Good and Sustainable Development

PM Modi emphasized that AI should not just be about profits—it should serve humanity.

• France is focusing on AI for climate change solutions and healthcare.
• The US is investing in AI for medical research, education, and social services.
• India is using AI for agriculture, disaster management, and financial inclusion.

Lesson for Product Managers

AI-driven products should address real-world problems beyond just business growth.
What PMs should do:

• Leverage AI for social good, whether in healthcare, environmental sustainability, or financial inclusion.
• Ensure AI products are inclusive—focus on accessibility and affordability to reach underserved communities.

The Future of AI Policies and Regulations

AI governance is becoming a global priority. PM Modi’s discussions with leaders highlighted the importance of balancing AI innovation with ethical considerations.

• France is leading AI ethics discussions, emphasizing transparency and fairness.
• The US is shaping AI policies for data privacy and security.
• India is working on AI policy frameworks, ensuring responsible AI adoption.

Lesson for Product Managers

AI regulations will influence product development and deployment.
What PMs should do:

• Monitor AI policy changes in different regions—compliance will be key to AI product success.
• Adopt responsible AI practices—transparency, fairness, and data security should be priorities in AI-driven products.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s travels to France and the US showcased how AI is shaping the future. From innovation to ethics, governance to social impact, AI is a key player in global transformation.