India AI Summit 2026 LIVE: India at the Forefront of Global AI Transformation, Says PM Modi
India AI Summit 2026 LIVE: India at the Forefront of Global AI Transformation, Says PM Modi
Updated: February 16, 2026 | New Delhi
India has once again positioned itself at the center of global technological transformation as Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the country stands at the forefront of the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. Speaking ahead of the AI Impact Summit 2026, PM Modi emphasized that India’s AI journey reflects both “ambition and responsibility.”
The five-day global summit, being hosted at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from February 16 to 20, brings together world leaders, industry pioneers, policymakers, researchers, and innovators from nearly 100 countries.
India AI Summit 2026: A Landmark Global Event
The AI Impact Summit 2026 marks the fourth edition of the global AI summit series, following previous summits in the United Kingdom, South Korea, and France. Notably, this is the first time the prestigious event is being held in a Global South country, underlining India’s growing influence in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the summit will host:
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Over 3,000 speakers
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More than 500 sessions
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Around 300 exhibitions and live AI demonstrations
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Participation from representatives of about 20 countries, including Brazil and France
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Expected footfall of over 2.5 lakh visitors
The event is structured around three thematic pillars — People, Planet, and Progress — highlighting AI’s transformative role in human-centric development.
PM Modi’s Vision: AI for “Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi welcomed global participants and highlighted the summit’s theme: “Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya” — meaning welfare for all, happiness for all.
He stated that India’s strides in AI are guided not just by technological ambition but by ethical responsibility. The government aims to harness artificial intelligence to enhance governance, improve public services, strengthen digital infrastructure, and drive inclusive economic growth.
By hosting this summit, India seeks to establish itself as a responsible AI leader committed to safety, transparency, and equitable access.
Global Tech Leaders at India AI Summit 2026
The summit features participation from top global tech leaders, including:
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Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google
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Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI
Their presence signals the strategic importance of India in the evolving global AI ecosystem. Industry observers note that India’s large digital user base, thriving startup ecosystem, and strong IT services industry make it a crucial AI innovation hub.
In addition to corporate leaders, policymakers and AI ministers from across continents are attending to discuss regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and cross-border AI collaboration.
U.K. Delegation Highlights AI Growth and Safety
The United Kingdom delegation is led by Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy and AI Minister Kanishka Narayan.
In a pre-summit statement, Mr. Lammy described the Delhi summit as an “important moment” to unlock the full potential of AI globally. He emphasized the need to integrate robust safety standards while leveraging AI to boost economic growth, generate jobs, and improve public services.
The U.K. is expected to push for international cooperation on AI governance, safety frameworks, and ethical AI development.
AI Expo 2026 Inaugurated at Bharat Mandapam
The summit kicked off with PM Modi inaugurating the India AI Impact Expo 2026, featuring pavilions from 13 countries. The expo showcases cutting-edge AI technologies, startups, research projects, and live demonstrations across sectors such as:
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Healthcare AI diagnostics
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Climate and environmental monitoring
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Smart agriculture solutions
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AI-powered education tools
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Fintech and digital payments innovation
The venue, Bharat Mandapam, previously hosted the historic G20 Summit in 2023, reinforcing its status as India’s premier global diplomatic and innovation hub.
AI and Jobs: More Creation Than Destruction?
Ahead of the summit, MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan stated in an exclusive interview that AI has the potential to create significantly more jobs than it displaces.
India’s AI strategy focuses on:
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Reskilling and upskilling the workforce
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Promoting semiconductor manufacturing
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Supporting AI startups
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Regulating AI-generated content responsibly
Experts argue that India’s demographic advantage, combined with its IT expertise, positions it to lead in AI-driven employment transformation.
Delhi Traffic Advisory and CBSE Exams
With high-level international participation and large visitor turnout expected, Delhi Traffic Police issued a comprehensive advisory. Traffic movement will be restricted across several central Delhi routes, including:
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Bhairon Marg
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Subramania Bharti Marg
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Rajesh Pilot Marg
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Tees January Marg
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Akbar Road
The advisory coincides with the commencement of CBSE Class 10 and 12 board examinations, prompting authorities to ensure smooth traffic management for students and commuters.
Why India AI Summit 2026 Matters Globally
The India AI Summit 2026 is more than just a technology conference — it is a defining moment in global AI diplomacy.
Key takeaways:
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India’s Global Leadership – Hosting the summit signals India’s rising role in shaping global AI policy.
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Global South Representation – For the first time, AI governance discussions are centered in a developing nation.
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Human-Centric AI – The theme emphasizes inclusive growth, ethical development, and sustainable innovation.
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Mass Participation – With over 2.5 lakh expected visitors, the summit blends policy, innovation, and public engagement.
Conclusion: India’s AI Moment on the World Stage
As AI reshapes industries, economies, and societies, India is positioning itself not merely as a participant but as a leader in this transformation. With global tech giants, policymakers, and innovators gathering in New Delhi, the AI Impact Summit 2026 marks a pivotal milestone.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message is clear: India’s AI journey is rooted in ambition, guided by responsibility, and dedicated to global welfare.
With discussions spanning innovation, regulation, safety, employment, and sustainability, the India AI Summit 2026 could very well shape the next chapter of artificial intelligence worldwide.
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