Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurated the India AI Impact Summit 2026 today at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The summit serves as a global platform for discussing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and fostering international cooperation. Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister addressed a gathering of world leaders, policymakers, and technology experts, outlining India's strategic roadmap for AI. He emphasized the role of technology in empowering the Global South and ensuring inclusive growth. The Prime Minister also toured the AI Impact Expo, where he interacted with innovators and witnessed cutting-edge AI applications developed by both domestic and international entities.
Background and Reception of International Dignitaries
The summit's proceedings were preceded by a series of high-level welcomes on Wednesday. Prime Minister Modi received prominent global figures, including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, while the event has seen participation from several heads of state and government, including Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, and Mauritian Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam. Other notable attendees include the President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic, the Prime Minister of Finland Petteri Orpo, and the Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The Bharat Mandapam venue has been transformed into a hub of technological exchange, attracting thousands of visitors interested in the future of AI.
Detailed Event Schedule and Participation Metrics
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 features representation from over 60 countries, including more than 100 government representatives and 20 heads of state. The professional contingent includes over 500 AI experts, 100 CEOs and founders, 150 academics, and 400 Chief Technology Officers (CTOs). The day's agenda commenced at 9:15 AM with a family photograph of the visiting leaders. The formal inauguration by the Prime Minister took place at 9:40 AM, followed by his keynote address at 10:30 AM. A significant session at 12:00 PM focused on national and international AI priorities, involving state heads and senior representatives from various global institutions to discuss policy frameworks and ethical AI deployment.
Showcasing Technological Innovations and AI Expo Highlights
The AI Impact Expo held alongside the summit features participation from global tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, OpenAI, and Anthropic. IBM showcased an AI-driven tool specifically designed for the agricultural sector to identify crop diseases and provide remedial solutions. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) presented an advanced facial recognition tool capable of identifying individuals in large crowds, even if they're wearing masks or helmets. These innovations highlight the practical applications of AI in security, agriculture, and public service. Various pavilions from participating nations also displayed their unique technological advancements, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the global AI ecosystem.
Diplomatic Engagements and CEO Roundtable Discussions
The summit also witnessed updates regarding key speakers and diplomatic interactions. The Gates Foundation India announced that Bill Gates wouldn't be delivering a keynote address; instead, Ankur Vora, President of the foundation's Africa and India offices, will represent the organization. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor shared insights from the summit, highlighting his engagement with Google CEO Sundar Pichai. A pivotal part of the day's schedule is the CEO Roundtable scheduled for 5:30 PM. This session, chaired by Prime Minister Modi, will bring together leaders like Sundar Pichai and Sam Altman to discuss investment in AI research, supply chain resilience, and strategic partnerships between governments and the private sector.