The AI Impact Summit 2026 continues drawing massive crowds in New Delhi. Therefore, the government extended the summit by one additional day.
Originally scheduled until February 20, the event will now conclude February 21. IT Secretary S. Krishnan announced the extension on Wednesday.
Moreover, officials described the summit as the “Mahakumbh of AI.” The event has generated extraordinary enthusiasm among students and researchers.
Record Registrations and Public Interest
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the summit grandly on Monday. Since then, crowds have remained steady across all exhibition days.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav confirmed strong participation levels. More than three lakh students and researchers have registered.
Consequently, authorities extended the exhibition period at Bharat Mandapam. Visitors can now attend until Saturday, February 21.
#WATCH | Delhi: On India AI Impact Summit, Head of Growth and Strategy at Wadhwani AI Global, Harsh Singh, says, “So far, the summit has been extremely interesting. I think we have congregated a great number of people, not just quantity, but also quality delegates… I think… pic.twitter.com/8xlhRKrwTP
— ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2026
Extended Visiting Hours for Public Convenience
To manage crowds effectively, officials extended daily visiting hours. The summit will now operate from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Previously, gates closed at 6 p.m. Therefore, extended hours will ease congestion inside the convention halls.
Visitors can explore over 300 exhibitors and thematic pavilions comfortably. Moreover, longer access reduces overcrowding during peak hours.
Restricted Public Entry on February 19
However, entry for the general public will remain closed on February 19. Authorities imposed restrictions due to high-level security protocols.
All participants must exit the convention area by 4:30 p.m. This arrangement allows Prime Minister Narendra Modi to host a private dinner.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister will attend special engagements with global leaders. Consequently, public access will resume on February 20 and 21.
Akhil Kumar, MD and CEO of Digital India, announced simplified entry arrangements. Gate 4 will function as the main exit and vehicle drop-off point.
Additionally, metro passengers should use Gate 10 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. After 4:30 p.m., delegates must wait until the main hall clears.
Therefore, streamlined protocols aim to ensure smooth movement inside the venue. Authorities expect improved crowd management during final days.
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Global Participation Highlights India’s AI Rise
The summit features participation from more than 30 countries. Additionally, over 100 thematic pavilions discuss AI’s social and economic impact.
Officials described it as the first major AI conference in the Global South. Consequently, Delhi positions itself as a rising global AI hub.
The expo showcases innovations across governance, industry, education, and ethics. Therefore, it reflects India’s growing leadership in artificial intelligence.
The AI Impact Summit 2026 continues attracting unprecedented attention nationwide. Moreover, the extended duration underscores public enthusiasm.
By adding an extra day, the government demonstrates commitment to accessibility. Ultimately, the summit strengthens India’s reputation as an emerging AI powerhouse.
