Minister of Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, declared Friday that the forthcoming India AI Impact Summit 2026 is witnessing unprecedented worldwide enthusiasm, set to eclipse all previous AI summits in scale. Hosted at Bharat Mandapam from February 16-20, 2026, it breaks new ground as the Global South’s first global AI conclave.
Highlighting preparations, Vaishnaw said premier IT companies have engineered more than 200 targeted AI models for debut at the summit. AI infrastructure investments stand at around $70 billion, with projections for doubling post-event. Talent nurturing will accelerate via AI infrastructure and industry-backed courses extended to 500 universities.
Vaishnaw invoked PM Modi’s meetings with AI ecosystem leaders—from entrepreneurs to innovators—as markers of India’s disciplined progress toward deployment-centric AI strategies.
Per Secretary S. Krishnan, the summit seeks to popularize AI technology, making its gains inclusive across society. It stresses consensus on governance and standards to enable trustworthy, responsible AI in practical scenarios worldwide.
Attendees can anticipate 500+ premium events, including executive forums, showcases, and impact-focused workshops at two prime venues. The AI Impact Expo boasts 840+ participants, spanning international pavilions, government entities, regional governments, corporations, startups, and academic institutions.
India’s summit heralds a new era of equitable AI advancement and international partnership.