New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) The India AI Impact Summit 2026 commenced on Monday, uniting world leaders, ministers, prominent technology experts, distinguished researchers, multilateral organizations, and industry representatives to explore how artificial intelligence can foster inclusive growth, fortify public systems, and promote sustainable development. This landmark event marks the first global gathering of such magnitude on this topic in the Global South.

The five-day summit, running until February 20, features participation from over 100 government officials, including more than 20 heads of state and government, alongside 60 ministers and vice ministers. Additionally, more than 500 global AI leaders—including CEOs, founders, academicians, researchers, CTOs, and philanthropic organizations—are in attendance.

On February 19, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the inaugural speech, setting the stage for international collaboration and articulating India’s vision for inclusive and responsible AI.

A standout feature of the summit comprises three flagship Global Impact Challenges: AI for ALL, AI by HER, and YUVAi. These challenges aim to highlight their finalists and showcase innovations during a Grand Finale. They were designed to accelerate scalable, impactful AI solutions that align with national priorities and global development goals, garnering over 4,650 applications from 60+ countries. This underscores India's role as a credible global center for responsible and scalable AI innovation.

After a thorough multi-stage evaluation by experts, policymakers, and industry leaders, 70 top teams across the three categories have been selected as finalists. They will present their solutions during the Grand Finale and Awards Ceremony on February 16 and 17 at Bharat Mandapam and Sushma Swaraj Bhawan. Finalists will interact with policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and academia, gaining recognition and support for their innovations on national and international stages.

The Research Symposium on AI and Its Impact, organized in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad on February 18, serves as the summit's major academic platform. The symposium received around 250 research submissions from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, attended by Estonia's President Alar Karis and Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw. It aims to unite renowned AI pioneers and leading research institutions to discuss AI-driven scientific discovery, safety and governance frameworks, equitable access to computing infrastructure, and research collaboration across the Global South.