December 30, 2025
The summit aims to deliver a consensus declaration on inclusive and democratised AI governance
Participation by both the United States and China highlights the event’s global significance
Over 100 countries are expected to attend, with strong representation from the global south
Seven working groups will shape outcomes across AI governance, inclusion, innovation and social impact
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the mega expo and opening ceremony of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from February 15 to 20. The global gathering is expected to bring together several heads of state, ministers and senior executives from leading technology and multinational companies, with India seeking a consensus declaration as a central outcome.
As host, India expects the summit to help build global agreement on critical artificial intelligence issues, with a strong emphasis on inclusion and the democratisation of AI resources. The confirmed participation of both the United States and China is a significant development, given their influence on the global AI agenda.
IT Secretary S Krishnan told reporters that confirmations have already been received from a wide range of global technology leaders and chief executives, underscoring the event’s scale and ambition. He said the core objective of the summit is to bring all stakeholders on board, with a leaders’ declaration reflecting shared priorities.
Krishnan explained that the focus of global AI discussions has evolved. He said the earlier emphasis on AI safety has given way to a more forward-looking approach centred on real-world impact and the positive outcomes AI can deliver. According to him, the leaders’ declaration is expected to support inclusion, expand access and promote the wider democratisation of AI resources.
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 aims to advance the global democratisation of AI, bridge the AI divide, encourage indigenous and local AI solutions, and promote AI for Good initiatives across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture and governance. Another key objective is to align global AI governance and innovation frameworks with the needs and realities of developing economies.
Seven working groups will shape the summit’s outcomes, covering areas such as AI for economic growth and social good, inclusion and social empowerment, safe and trusted AI, human capital and science, democratising AI resources and resilience, and innovation and efficiency.
The summit builds on the momentum of previous global initiatives, including the AI summits held at Bletchley Park, Seoul, Paris and Kigali. Sources said several prominent global leaders and industry figures are expected to attend, including heads of state from Europe and Latin America, as well as CEOs of major semiconductor, AI and technology firms.
Krishnan said around 50 global CEOs and founders have already confirmed participation and expressed confidence that the number would rise after the holiday season. More than 100 countries are expected to be represented, with 15 to 20 at the head-of-state or head-of-government level and over 50 at the ministerial level. India is also expecting strong representation from the global south, particularly Africa and Latin America.
According to Krishnan, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the expo, host a dinner event likely on February 18, and take part in the opening ceremony, the leaders’ plenary, and the CEO roundtable on February 19.
In discussions with the United States regarding India’s potential participation in the Pax Silica silicon supply chain initiative, Krishnan said talks are ongoing at multiple levels, including diplomatic, national security, and technical engagements involving the IT ministry.
Source: Business Today