Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off day two of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi with a powerful call to action. ‘AI should empower everyone,’ he posted on X, stressing intelligence and rational decision-making as bridges between tech and public welfare.
This landmark event, starting Monday and wrapping up on February 20, marks a historic first for the Global South. It assembles world leaders, ministers, tech CEOs, researchers, and industry heads to deliberate AI’s role in fostering inclusive growth, robust public systems, and sustainable progress.
Over 600 high-profile participants are in attendance, including 20+ heads of state, 60+ ministers, and 500 global AI influencers from academia, startups, and philanthropy.
PM Modi’s February 19 inaugural speech will spotlight India’s blueprint for responsible AI collaboration worldwide.
Stealing the spotlight are three flagship challenges – AI for All, AI by Her, and YUVAi – designed to accelerate high-impact, scalable AI solutions. Garnering 4,650+ entries from 60 countries, they’ve selected 70 finalists after stringent reviews.
These innovators will network with leaders, secure funding, and propel their projects nationally and globally.
Adding academic depth, February 18’s symposium with IIT Hyderabad will host 250 global research papers on AI’s expansive influences. Global figures like Estonia’s President Alar Karis and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will join discussions on AI safety, equitable access, scientific breakthroughs, and Global South partnerships.
The summit cements India’s rise as a beacon for ethical, inclusive AI advancement, promising transformative outcomes for humanity.