In February 2026, Bharat Mandapam hosted the India AI Impact Summit 2026, showcasing global collaboration, AI for Public Good, and innovation across People, Planet, and Progress.
In February 2026, Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi turned into a vibrant hub of global conversation as the India AI Impact Summit 2026 welcomed participants from across the world. From 16–20 February, the venue hosted leaders, innovators, researchers, and policymakers brought together by a shared question: how can artificial intelligence improve lives and shape the future? The summit was conceived as a global platform to explore how AI can support inclusive growth and international collaboration, as described on the official summit website.
The gathering officially began with the inauguration of the India AI Impact Expo by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, setting the stage for five days of dialogue, demonstrations and partnerships, as noted in the Press Information Bureau announcement. From the very first day, the summit reflected a sense of momentum around the role of technology in shaping the future.
A Truly Global Gathering
One of the most striking aspects of the summit is its sheer scale. The event received more than 35,000 registrations and saw participation from over 100 countries, alongside 500 global AI leaders, ministers, heads of state and CEOs, according to the Government release. The presence of major technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, Qualcomm and OpenAI further underlined the international importance of the summit, as reported by the Associated Press.
These numbers tell a bigger story: the world is increasingly looking toward collaboration to guide the future of artificial intelligence.
A Shared Vision for AI
At the center of the summit lies a powerful idea AI for Public Good and Global Impact. Conversations throughout the event are shaped by three guiding pillars: People, Planet and Progress. These principles reflect a shared vision for ensuring AI benefits society, supports sustainability and drives innovation, as highlighted in the Press Information Bureau release.
The summit platform emphasizes real-world applications of AI across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education and digital public infrastructure, reinforcing the idea that AI is not just about technology but about improving everyday lives, as described on the official summit portal.
Exploring the Expo: A Glimpse of the Future
Running alongside the summit, the India AI Impact Expo offers visitors a chance to see innovation in action. Spanning 10 arenas across more than 70,000 square meters, the exhibition brings together technology firms, startups, research institutions, and government organizations. With over 300 exhibitors from 30 countries and 13 country pavilions, the Expo highlights the global nature of the AI ecosystem, according to the Press Information Bureau.
The energy of the startup world is equally visible, with over 600 high-potential startups participating and over 2.5 lakh visitors expected. The broader summit program features more than 500 sessions and over 3,250 speakers, creating a space where ideas, experiences and ambitions come together.
Walking through the Expo feels like stepping into tomorrow where research meets real-world solutions.
Why This Summit Matters
Beyond the exhibitions and discussions, the summit reflects a deeper shift in the global conversation around AI. Coverage by Reuters highlights how the event is bringing countries together to discuss cooperation and governance in artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, reporting by the Times of India points to the wide global interest in the summit’s discussions and sessions.
Looking Ahead
As the conversations at Bharat Mandapam begin to turn into action, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 offers a glimpse of a future where artificial intelligence is shaped through shared ideas rather than competition. The connections and conversations sparked here could influence how AI is developed and used in the years ahead touching everyday life through better healthcare, stronger education systems, smarter cities, and more sustainable solutions.
Looking ahead, the summit hints at a future where countries work together to make sure AI remains responsible, inclusive, and centered around people. What started as discussions in New Delhi may grow into global partnerships, new innovations and policies that shape how we live and work. In many ways, the summit feels like the beginning of a journey where technology and humanity move forward side by side.
Clear Cut Research, Education Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Feb 18, 2026 09:00 IST
Written By: Priyanka Thakur
