AI – New Delhi is preparing to welcome policymakers, technology executives and global leaders for the much-anticipated Global AI Impact Summit, an event that industry voices say highlights India’s growing influence in artificial intelligence. Scheduled to take place from February 16 to 20, the summit is expected to draw participation from governments, international organisations and leading innovators from around the world.

Industry Leaders Highlight India’s Growing AI Role

Ahead of the summit, several prominent figures in the technology sector have expressed confidence in India’s expanding artificial intelligence ecosystem. Vishal Sikka, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Vianai Systems, described the gathering as a defining moment for global AI dialogue.

In remarks shared by the Indian Embassy in the United States, Sikka noted the rapid pace of breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and the wide-ranging consequences for industries and societies. He said India occupies a critical position in the global AI landscape, pointing to the country’s technical talent, expanding digital infrastructure and growing application of AI solutions across sectors.

Sikka also underscored the importance of addressing deeper questions surrounding artificial intelligence, including safety, ethics, energy use and security. As AI systems become more sophisticated and autonomous, he said, ensuring responsible deployment and oversight will require collaboration across disciplines and borders.

Focus on Trust, Safety and Emerging Economies

Rorry Daniels, Managing Director of the Asia Society Policy Institute, is among those travelling to New Delhi for the event. She confirmed that the institute will partner with the United Nations to host a session focused on trust and safety within AI ecosystems.

Daniels said she is particularly interested in examining how India’s evolving AI policy framework could serve as a reference point for other emerging economies in Asia. As artificial intelligence adoption accelerates globally, she noted, developing nations are seeking models that balance innovation with regulation and public interest safeguards.

Her comments reflect a broader expectation that the summit will go beyond technical discussions and examine governance structures that support responsible AI growth.

Global Participation at Bharat Mandapam

The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, marking the first global AI summit of its kind to be hosted in the Global South. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, around 20 international leaders are expected to attend. Ministerial delegations from more than 45 countries will also take part in the deliberations.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is scheduled to participate, alongside senior officials from several international organisations. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, multiple Heads of State and Government are expected to join the five-day programme.

Officials have indicated that the summit will be structured around three guiding themes—People, Planet and Progress—while discussions will span seven core focus areas. These pillars are intended to frame conversations around sustainable development, inclusive innovation and the broader societal impact of artificial intelligence.

Linking Policy, Innovation and Public Engagement

Designed as a comprehensive platform, the summit will combine policy dialogue, academic research, industry engagement and public outreach. Organisers aim to bring together technology companies, startups, researchers and civil society representatives to examine AI’s role in governance, economic growth and sustainable development.

The event aligns with India’s ongoing initiatives such as the India AI Mission and the Digital India programme, both of which emphasise expanding digital public infrastructure and improving access to emerging technologies. Officials have stated that the summit seeks to translate high-level global discussions into actionable outcomes that directly benefit communities.

In addition to innovation and industry growth, the agenda will include conversations on climate-conscious technology, equitable access to digital tools and the development of robust innovation ecosystems.

Toward a Responsible AI Future

By hosting the summit, India aims to position itself as a convening force in shaping global AI governance frameworks. The focus, organisers say, is not only on technological advancement but also on ensuring that artificial intelligence contributes to economic progress while safeguarding ethical standards and public trust.

As delegations gather in New Delhi, expectations are high that the summit will generate practical recommendations and collaborative pathways for responsible and inclusive AI development worldwide.