The AI Impact Summit 2026 India, South Asia’s largest artificial intelligence event, has finally begun in New Delhi on Monday, February 16. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the event.
The mega event has witnessed participation from more than 600 high-potential startups. Earlier, the Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, S. Krishnan stated that the summit is expected to witness a turnout far exceeding initial government estimates.
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Record-breaking turnout
As per the report, the inaugural day of the AI Impact Summit 2026 has already seen more than 2.5 lakh registrations from India and across the world.
"The enthusiasm to participate in the event has truly grown. We have more than 2.5 lakh registrations from across India and the rest of the world. We've tried to make all the arrangements that we can. We never anticipated that there would be so many people willing and wanting to attend, which is why we did not restrict the registrations. So on all the days except the 19th, all of them are welcome to attend the various sessions that are going on," S. Krishnan told ANI.
Event to be held at Bharat Mandapam
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 is being hosted from 16 to 20 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The summit aims to highlight India’s growing capabilities and leadership in artificial intelligence.
The expo spans 10 arenas covering more than 70,000 square meters. It brings together global technology companies, startups, academic institutions, research organisations, Union Ministries, State Governments and international partners.
Strong international participation
The summit is featuring 13 country pavilions, including participation from Australia, Japan, Russia, the UK, France and Germany, underlining global collaboration in AI development.
More than 300 exhibition pavilions have been set up, with live demonstrations organised under three core themes: People, Planet and Progress.
500 sessions and 3,250 speakers
The event will host over 500 sessions featuring more than 3,250 speakers and panellists. Discussions will focus on how artificial intelligence is transforming various sectors and how its benefits can be made inclusive and globally accessible.
Safety and logistics arrangements in place
MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan confirmed that, except for sessions scheduled on 19 February 2026, all registered participants will be allowed to attend.
He emphasised the importance of following safety instructions to ensure smooth conduct of the summit. According to him, adequate arrangements have been made for food, water, medical facilities and other essential requirements.
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"We want all of them to just follow the relevant safety instructions to make sure that the event is enjoyable for everybody. There are enough and adequate arrangements for food, water and all other requirements outside in the food courts. There are health-related arrangements and all; no effort has been spared to make sure that everyone has a comfortable experience," he said.
