India and France have jointly launched the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health at AIIMS New Delhi, marking a significant step in international collaboration on artificial intelligence in healthcare. French President Emmanuel Macron and Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda inaugurated the centre during the President’s official visit to India.
Through this initiative, both countries aim to advance AI-driven research, medical education, and clinical innovation, particularly in brain health and global healthcare systems.
Strategic Academic Partnership
As reported by NDTV, the centre operates under a Joint Memorandum of Understanding between AIIMS New Delhi, Sorbonne University, and the Paris Brain Institute. Additionally, the collaboration includes IIT Delhi and several French institutions.
By bringing together expertise in artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and public health, the partnership promotes interdisciplinary research at the intersection of technology and medicine.
Building Trusted AI Systems
During the inauguration, President Macron emphasised the need for India and France to develop their own trusted AI systems. He stated that both nations must strengthen computing capacity and cultivate talent rather than rely solely on technologies created and managed elsewhere.
Furthermore, he underscored the importance of responsible AI governance. He highlighted the need for strong protections for children, algorithmic transparency to address bias, and a commitment to preserving linguistic and cultural diversity.
Expanding Academic Mobility
In addition to research collaboration, Macron announced plans to significantly expand academic mobility between the two countries. Currently, around 10,000 students move annually between India and France. However, both governments have set a target to increase this number to 30,000 students per year by 2030.
To achieve this goal, France will streamline visa and administrative procedures, particularly for students pursuing long-term programmes such as PhDs.
RUSH 2026: Strengthening Scientific Dialogue
The launch coincided with the Rencontres Universitaires et Scientifiques de Haut Niveau (RUSH) 2026 meetings held at AIIMS on February 18 and 19. The French Embassy coordinated the event.
As part of the programme, experts conducted a dedicated session titled “Indo-French Forum: AI in Brain Health and Global Healthcare.” Scientists, clinicians, and policymakers from both nations participated in discussions on advancing AI applications in healthcare.
Engaging the Next Generation of Innovators
During a special session titled “RUSH: Conversation on Artificial Intelligence,” President Macron interacted with young Indian innovators Priyanka Das Rajkakati and Manan Suri. He discussed the role of youth-led innovation and cross-border collaboration in building inclusive and ethical AI ecosystems.
After the inauguration ceremony, Macron toured the facility and engaged with students and researchers, further reinforcing the shared commitment to innovation and scientific partnership.
A New Chapter in AI-Driven Healthcare
Overall, the launch of the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health represents a forward-looking collaboration between India and France. By combining clinical excellence, academic strength, and technological innovation, the two countries aim to shape the future of AI-driven healthcare while ensuring responsible and inclusive development.