India AI Impact Summit 2026: A Global Gathering in New Delhi

New Delhi is preparing to host the India AI Impact Summit 2026, a flagship global event focused on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence. Scheduled for February 16-20, the summit will bring together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, startups, and international organizations to discuss AI’s impact and future direction, particularly for the Global South.

Summit Overview

The India AI Impact Summit 2026, hosted by the Government of India under the IndiaAI Mission in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), aims to address the growing Global AI Divide and promote inclusive growth through AI. The summit will feature over 500 events across four venues: Bharat Mandapam, Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, Vigyan Bhawan, and Dr. Ambedkar Bhawan .

Key Participants and Agenda

The summit anticipates the participation of Prime Minister Modi, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and over 40 other CEOs. The five-day event will include keynote addresses, policy panels, and expert roundtables. The AI Expo, spanning over 70,000 square metres at Bharat Mandapam, will be organized around seven thematic zones – Health, Agriculture, Safe & Trusted AI, Science, Inclusion, Democratising AI Resources, and Economic Development .

February 16th marked the inauguration of the India AI Impact Expo by Prime Minister Modi .

Focus on the Global South

This edition of the summit is particularly significant as it is the first to be held in the Global South. The summit’s guiding principles – People, Planet, and Progress – emphasize AI that serves humanity, utilizes resources responsibly, and avoids concentration of power in the hands of a few . The event recognizes AI not merely as a technological advancement, but as a strategic tool for inclusive growth and expanding opportunities.

Traffic and Logistics

With significant attendance expected, traffic police have implemented detailed movement plans, including dynamic closures on key roads like Mathura Road, Janpath, and Shanti Path. Diversions are in place for traffic not destined for the capital, directing vehicles to the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways. Passengers traveling to Indira Gandhi International Airport are advised to use NH-48 and the Dwarka Tunnel, avoiding central Delhi. Shuttle buses will operate between remote parking areas and Bharat Mandapam to minimize congestion .

International Context

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 builds upon a growing number of multilateral initiatives dedicated to responsible and equitable AI development, including the G20 AI Principles, UN resolutions, the African Declaration on AI, and the Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI . The summit also serves as a preparation for India’s bid to host events related to the Global Partnership on AI later in the year.