Mumbai, 17 February 2026
The spectacular opening ceremony featured an original digital projection on the iconic Gateway of India. Created by a French studio, the projection pays tribute to the cultural and scientific dialogue between France and India through a series of evocative tableaux.
The India-France Year of Innovation 2026, announced during the State visit of President Emmanuel Macron to India in January 2024, marks a bold new chapter in the strategic partnership of trust between France and India.
Building on several key initiatives, such as the Indo-French co-presidency of the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris in February 2025, this cross-cutting initiative reflects a joint vision of President Macron and Prime Minister Modi: innovation in all its dimensions - technological, industrial, social, environmental, cultural, artistic - is now the guiding thread of the Indo-French strategic partnership. With AI and emerging technologies transforming every sector, the Year of Innovation focuses on 4 key areas:
Aerospace
Health, Well-being and Food
Sustainable Development and Energy Transition
Cultural and Creative Industries
Throughout the year, all the departments of the Embassy of France in India, the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI), and other agencies in the French network are collaborating with the French and Indian ecosystems to advance joint innovation.
❝As France and India elevate their ties to a special global partnership, innovation has become more than a policy priority - it is the new mantra guiding our relations across every domain of our cooperation, which spans the seabed to space. Connecting our researchers, startups, industries, universities, young entrepreneurs, and artists, innovation is opening new frontiers of collaboration to bring about wide economic, societal and cultural impact.❞ — Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India
❝BNP Paribas, Europe’s leading banking and financial services group, is proud to be the Platinum Sponsor of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026. This partnership underscores our commitment to India, dedication to fostering innovation and strengthening the Indo-French business relationship.❞ — Sanjay Singh, Head of Territory and CEO, India, BNP Paribas
❝India and France are deepening their collaboration in emerging technologies, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, where both countries share a common vision and long-term strategic interests. This makes 2026 a significant milestone in their innovation journey. As an AI powered business and technology company, Capgemini is proud to partner in the India–France Year of Innovation. We bring our global expertise in orchestrating complex, multi stakeholder initiatives to help advance the next phase of transformative, cross border innovation.❞ — Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer - Capgemini Group
❝Dassault Aviation, a partner of India for over 70 years, is delighted to contribute to this India-France Year of Innovation, which will see the aeronautical expertise of both countries come together to reach new heights. Together, we are charting the sky of the future.❞ — Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation
❝We are proud to be part of India–France Year of Innovation, an embodiment of the long-standing trust and technological collaboration between our nations. For over 60 years, Schneider Electric has been deeply embedded in India’s growth, enabling its energy transition and supporting industries, homes, and communities with sustainable, resilient, and digital solutions.” He further added, "As India accelerates into its next phase of development, energy intelligence will define competitiveness. At Schneider Electric, the world's most sustainable company, innovation powers everything we do. We combine France’s technological leadership with India’s engineering scale to deliver digital and electric solutions that drive efficiency, sustainability, and long-term impact. We continue to be India’s energy technology partner, enabling a greener, more digital future for the nation. ❞ — Deepak Sharma, President- Greater India, MD & CEO, Schneider Electric India
President Macron and Prime Minister Modi also formally launched the Indo-French Innovation Network, a flagship initiative of the Year of Innovation. A government-endorsed, industry-driven digital platform, it is designed to connect innovators, enterprises, research institutions, startups, and public agencies across both countries. Designed by Capgemini, the Network is operated by the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI). Stakeholders may explore and register via: indiafranceinnovation2026.org
