India is stepping confidently onto the global AI stage, the country is ready to lead. The Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit 2026 begins in New Delhi on Monday, bringing together policymakers, tech leaders, startups and researchers from around the world. At the centre of the spotlight is Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will inaugurate the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at 5 pm on February 16 at Bharat Mandapam.
The Expo, held alongside the summit, is designed as a large-scale demonstration of artificial intelligence in real-world action. More than 300 curated exhibition pavilions and live demonstrations have been organised under three thematic “chakras” People, Planet and Progress. The idea is simple yet ambitious: show how AI can serve society, protect the environment and accelerate development.
Participation reflects the scale of the event. Over 600 high-potential startups are expected to showcase their innovations, alongside 13 country pavilions that underline growing global collaboration in the AI ecosystem. Global technology companies, research institutions, academic leaders, and representatives from central and state governments are also part of the gathering, turning Delhi into a hub of AI dialogue for the week.
Ahead of the summit, PM Modi welcomed global tech leaders on X, calling it a matter of immense pride that people from across the world are coming to India for the India AI Impact Summit. He linked the global turnout to the potential and capability of India’s youth, adding that the occasion reflects the country’s rapid progress in science and technology and its growing contribution to global development.
AI today is transforming several sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, governance and enterprise. The AI Impact Summit will enrich global discourse on diverse aspects of AI, such as innovation, collaboration, responsible use and more. I am confident that the…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 16, 2026
The summit’s discussions are expected to move beyond theory. Key sessions focus on the future of skills, AI’s impact on education and employment, road safety through data driven tools, the role of AI in agriculture, and its potential to strengthen the judicial system. The underlying theme remains clear responsible, inclusive and resilient AI that works for people.
As the doors open at Bharat Mandapam, India is not just hosting a technology event. It is signalling its intent to shape the global AI conversation on its own terms, with its youth and innovation ecosystem at the forefront.
