The India AI Impact Summit 2026 has begun in New Delhi at Bharat Mandapam, running from 16 to 20 February. It is a five-day global gathering organised under India’s IndiaAI Mission and Government leadership, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to formally inaugurate it. This year marks the first time such a major international AI summit is being hosted in the Global South - a group of developing countries often outside traditional AI leadership circles - and India is using the platform to shape how the world thinks about AI’s role in everyday life.

The summit centres around three guiding principles called Sutras: People, Planet, and Progress. These represent India’s effort to frame AI not just as tech innovation but as a force that must support human welfare, environmental goals and equitable growth. Discussions cover how AI can improve education, healthcare, agriculture and public services, and how policies can balance innovation with safety and fairness.

Attendance at the summit is wide and diverse. Leaders from more than 20 countries are scheduled to participate, including presidents and prime ministers from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Delegations from over 45 nations will also take part, along with heads of international organisations such as the UN Secretary-General. Indian officials and global experts are expected to engage on issues like governance frameworks, ethical AI use, and partnerships for development.

Tech industry participation is also significant. Top executives from global technology companies - including Google, OpenAI, Anthropic and other major AI developers - are attending to share perspectives on innovation, infrastructure and inclusive technology. The summit’s programme includes hundreds of sessions covering AI policy, safety, research, and real-world applications.

Alongside the main summit is the India AI Impact Expo 2026, which showcases industry innovations, research, and solutions across thematic zones. More than 300 exhibitors and country pavilions are present, highlighting practical AI uses and forging cross-border collaboration.