Prime Minister Modi to Address AI Impact Summit
On February 19, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver a keynote address at the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. This annual event will gather several world leaders and prominent technology executives, marking a pivotal moment for India in the global AI landscape.
The summit, touted as India’s flagship event for artificial intelligence, will feature high-profile participants including the CEOs of OpenAI, Google DeepMind, and Reliance Industries. The growing emphasis on AI reflects India’s increasing role as a leader in technology and innovation.
Summit Significance and Participation
The AI Impact Summit has drawn significant attention, set against a backdrop of multilateral summits held in other major nations like the U.K., France, and South Korea. Distinguished guests at the summit will include President Emmanuel Macron of France, President Pedro Sánchez of Spain, and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka.
This gathering underscores the collaborative international efforts being made to harness the potential of AI technologies. As Prime Minister Modi noted, “Artificial intelligence is not just a field of tech; it is the future of governance, industry, and society.” His address is expected to provide important insights into India’s strategy for developing AI responsibly and sustainably.
Keynote Speakers and Plenary Sessions
A Line-up of Renowned Speakers
Following Modi’s address, keynotes will be delivered by influential figures in the tech world, including Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, and Dennis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind. Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, will also share his perspectives on the burgeoning AI landscape.
Other significant speakers will include Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation, and Brad Smith, president of Microsoft. This diverse assembly aims to exchange ideas on harnessing AI to tackle global challenges, ranging from healthcare to environmental sustainability.
Expo Extension for Public Access
To accommodate interest from a broader audience, the expo part of the summit has been extended by an additional day, running until February 21, 2026. This change was announced by IT Secretary S. Krishnan, who expressed that the extra day would enable greater public access, particularly for students and professionals who may have found it challenging to attend on weekdays.
Krishnan stated, “We believe in making this summit as inclusive as possible, and normalizing access for our youth and professionals is essential for the growth of AI in India.” The expo features over 400 exhibitors, comprising startups, corporate entities, and government agencies, showcasing their projects and innovations.
Attendance and Crowd Management
The AI Impact Summit has witnessed an impressive influx of attendees since its opening. However, this surge in participation led to challenges in crowd management. On February 16, 2026, several areas of the venue were closed to public access due to overwhelming crowds, causing inconvenience to participants.
To improve the flow of attendees, organizers have opened more halls and implemented better crowd management strategies. As noted by an event organizer, “We are fully committed to ensuring a seamless experience for all participants at this summit, which is a landmark event for India in the AI landscape.” The measures taken aim at providing a balanced experience for all stakeholders.
Official Comments on AI’s Role in Governance
During the summit’s early sessions, various leaders spoke about the transformative power of AI technologies. Prime Minister Modi emphasized in his previous engagements that AI could revolutionize governance by enhancing efficiency and transparency. “The adoption of AI can profoundly change our public services, making them more responsive and effective,” he remarked.
This sentiment was echoed by other attendees, who discussed the ethical implications and challenges posed by AI. Many highlighted the need for responsible AI governance, advocating for regulatory frameworks that ensure technologies benefit society as a whole.
Future Prospects for AI in India
The success of the AI Impact Summit serves as a precursor to India’s larger strategy on AI governance. The government is expected to introduce policies in the coming months aimed at fostering innovation while addressing ethical concerns. As part of this plan, there is also anticipation of investment in educational programs to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped for AI challenges.
Experts believe that scaling AI capabilities can notably boost various sectors, including health, energy, and agriculture. Industry specialists indicate that India’s current focus on AI can create a competitive advantage in the global market.
Looking Ahead: Event Updates and Future Engagements
As the summit progresses, further discussions on AI’s international impact are anticipated. Following the plenary sessions, breakout sessions will allow smaller groups to delve deeper into specific AI-related topics. Industry leaders are expected to engage in policy discussions, focusing on ethical AI deployment and collaboration across borders.
After the conclusion of the summit, participants will have the opportunity to network and establish partnerships aimed at future collaborations in AI development. Further updates about the outcomes and post-summit activities will be communicated to stakeholders.
Conclusion: A Landmark Event for AI
The AI Impact Summit in New Delhi represents a critical juncture for India’s position on the global AI stage. With identified leaders set to discuss the opportunities and challenges in the AI sphere, the outcomes from this event could significantly influence future policies and collaborations.
As global technology leaders align their visions for AI development, the engagement and deliberations occurring during this summit may pave the way for groundbreaking solutions addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.