Top Tech Leaders to Attend India AI Impact Summit 2026
Complete Guide to Dates, Location & India AI Summit 2026 Attendees
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 runs February 16-20. It’s attracted massive high-level engagement. Expect 15-20 Heads of Government. Over 50 international ministers will attend. More than 40 global and Indian CEOs have confirmed participation.
Here’s the kicker—this marks the first global AI summit hosted in the Global South. New Delhi is buzzing with anticipation. The world’s most influential technology leaders are preparing to descend on the capital.
The sheer magnitude of participation is staggering. Over 35,000 registrations have flooded in ahead of the event. Every major player in artificial intelligence will be present. Silicon Valley giants? Check. Homegrown Indian innovators? Absolutely. This is the defining moment for global AI governance frameworks.
📑 Quick Navigation:
- 📅 India AI Summit 2026 Dates & Location
- 🌟 India AI Summit 2026 Attendees List
- 🎤 AI Summit India Speakers
- 📋 India AI Policy 2026 Framework
- 🏢 Bharat Mandapam AI Summit Venue
- 💰 Economic Impact
📅 India AI Summit 2026 Dates and Location Details
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 takes place February 16-20, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Bharat Mandapam is the ideal venue. It’s centrally located. Delhi Metro, road networks, and public transport provide easy access.
Why these specific India AI Summit 2026 dates? The timing aligns perfectly with India’s digital transformation agenda. February offers optimal weather for international delegates. It positions India as a key player in shaping AI policy frameworks early in the year.
Daily Schedule Overview:
- Opening Ceremony: February 16, 2026 (Morning session)
- Policy Discussions: February 16-18, 2026
- Research Symposium: February 18, 2026
- Exhibition Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM daily
- Closing Session: February 20, 2026
The five-day program is packed. Opening ceremonies kick things off. Policy discussions happen throughout. Research symposiums connect academia with industry. Exhibition areas showcase cutting-edge innovations.
How to Get There & Where to Stay
Transportation Tips:
- Delhi Metro: Nearest station is Supreme Court Metro Station (Blue Line)
- Airport Transfer: Indira Gandhi International Airport is 15 km away
- International Visitors: India offers e-visa facilities for 169+ countries
- Local Transport: Uber, Ola, and official taxis available
Accommodation Recommendations: Book early—seriously. With 35,000+ attendees, hotels fill up fast. Central Delhi properties near Pragati Maidan offer convenient access. Budget options exist in Connaught Place and nearby areas. Luxury hotels in Chanakyapuri provide premium experiences.
🌟 Who Is Attending India AI Summit 2026: A Powerhouse Lineup
The India AI Summit 2026 attendees list reads like a who’s who of global technology. Here’s the lineup that’s got everyone talking:
Confirmed Tech Leaders:
- Bill Gates – Co-founder, Microsoft & Gates Foundation
- Sam Altman – CEO, OpenAI
- Sundar Pichai – CEO, Google & Alphabet
- Jensen Huang – Founder & CEO, NVIDIA
- Dario Amodei – CEO, Anthropic
- David Zapolsky – Chief Global Affairs & Legal Officer, Amazon
- Alexandr Wang – Chief AI Officer, Meta
These aren’t ceremonial appearances (trust me on this). These leaders will actively shape conversations around responsible AI deployment.
Here’s why they’re coming. The AI Impact Summit Delhi 2026 offers something unique. Unlike consumer-focused tech conferences, this summit emphasizes governance, ethics, and real-world impact. It’s where frameworks get discussed rather than products launched.
Indian Industry Leaders Join the Conversation
The top tech leaders AI India roster extends beyond American tech giants. Indian industry leaders bring crucial perspectives:
- TCS – Confirmed participation
- Infosys – Confirmed participation
- Sunil Mittal (Bharti Airtel) – Discussing AI in telecommunications
Mittal’s company has pioneered AI applications across India’s digital infrastructure. His insights on deploying AI at scale matter enormously.
Government Participation & Diplomatic Dimension
Who is attending India AI Summit 2026 from the public sector? Government ministers from over 100 countries will participate. The numbers are impressive:
- 15-20 Heads of Government
- 50+ Ministers from various countries
This diplomatic dimension elevates the summit. It’s not just an industry gathering anymore. It’s become a forum for international cooperation on AI governance and policy.
🎤 AI Summit India Speakers: Voices That Will Define AI’s Future
The AI Summit India speakers represent incredibly diverse perspectives on artificial intelligence. Let’s dive into what each brings to the table.
Jensen Huang: The AI Computing Architect
Jensen Huang brings unmatched expertise in AI computing infrastructure. He’s at the center of the global AI compute and semiconductor race. His company’s GPUs power most advanced AI systems worldwide.
NVIDIA’s technology enables everything from ChatGPT to autonomous vehicles. Huang’s perspective on computational requirements shapes industry roadmaps globally.
Sundar Pichai: Google’s $15 Billion India Commitment
Sundar Pichai’s participation carries special significance. He heads Google and parent Alphabet, which is a major AI innovator. Their advances include Gemini language models and DeepMind research.
Here’s the exciting part. In October 2025, Pichai announced Google’s largest-ever investment in India: a $15 billion plan (2026-2030) to build a state-of-the-art AI hub and data center in Visakhapatnam. This massive investment demonstrates how the summit catalyzes concrete commitments.
Sam Altman: OpenAI’s Indian Market Focus
Sam Altman’s presence generates considerable interest. India has become OpenAI’s largest user market. Get this—about 72 million daily users in India by late 2025. Altman will attend the summit and hold OpenAI events in New Delhi, where they recently opened an office.
OpenAI’s engagement with India signals the country’s growing importance in global AI ecosystems. It’s not just about users anymore—it’s about innovation partnerships.
Bill Gates: AI for Social Good
Bill Gates brings a development-focused perspective that perfectly aligns with the summit’s vision. He’s invested heavily in AI tools that diagnose diseases faster and help doctors read medical scans.
Gates announced a $50 million partnership with OpenAI called the Horizon1000 project. It uses AI for strengthening health systems in Africa. The Foundation pursues responsible AI to improve diagnostics, patient care, and global health outcomes.
His emphasis on AI for social good perfectly matches the summit’s core principles.
📋 Understanding the India AI Policy 2026 Framework
The India AI policy 2026 framework provides structure for the summit’s ambitious agenda. It’s anchored on three foundational pillars—or ‘Sutras’: People, Planet, and Progress.
These aren’t just buzzwords. They represent fundamental commitments to inclusive AI development.
The Seven Chakras: Practical Action Areas
The India AI conference 2026 translates abstract principles into concrete action. The Summit is organized around seven Chakras or working groups:
- Human Capital Development – Training and education
- Safe AI – Security and ethical frameworks
- Inclusion – Ensuring AI benefits everyone
- Innovation – Supporting breakthrough research
- Economic Development – Job creation and growth
- AI Resources – Infrastructure and computing power
- Social Good – Applications for public benefit
These working groups aim to shape global AI norms with participation from over 100 countries.
How India AI 2026 Differs from Previous Summits
Plot twist: Unlike safety-focused meetings in the UK or France, the AI Impact Summit 2026 emphasizes people-centric AI. It focuses on development outcomes, jobs, sustainability, and practical governance aligned with emerging economies’ needs.
This development-first approach resonates strongly with Global South nations. It’s about time someone addressed their specific challenges.
Real-World Policy Impact
The policy dimension extends beyond the summit itself. Leading IT companies have developed more than 200 focused, sector-specific AI models. They’re proposed to be launched during the AI Impact Summit.
These launches demonstrate how policy frameworks enable practical innovation. It’s not just talk—it’s action.
🏢 Bharat Mandapam AI Summit: Infrastructure and Logistics
The Bharat Mandapam AI Summit venue offers world-class facilities for this global gathering. The India AI Impact Expo is expected to feature over 300 exhibitors from 30 countries across more than 10 thematic pavilions.
This scale requires sophisticated infrastructure and meticulous planning. Spoiler alert: The numbers are impressive.
What to Expect at the Venue
Multiple zones cater to different aspects of AI exploration:
- Exhibition Halls – Live demonstrations of AI technologies
- Conference Rooms – Policy discussions and technical presentations
- Networking Spaces – Connect with innovators, investors, and policymakers
- Startup Showcase – Over 500 AI startups displaying innovations
Imagine you’re a startup founder walking into Bharat Mandapam. Exhibition booths surround you. Investors circulate everywhere. That chance conversation at the coffee station? It could change your company’s trajectory.
Extensive Preparation Behind the Scenes
The AI India 2026 organizing committee has prepared extensively. The Summit’s deeply participatory model is reflected in nearly 480+ pre-summit events across India and globally. This includes 83 international engagements across 30 countries.
These preparatory events have built momentum and refined the summit’s agenda. Bottom line: This isn’t thrown together last minute.
Practical Logistics & Safety
Transportation and accommodation require careful consideration. The venue’s central location helps. Delhi’s metro system provides convenient access. Hotels across all price ranges can accommodate different budgets.
Safety Protocols:
- Health screening at entry points
- Sanitization stations throughout venue
- Medical support teams on standby
- Emergency response protocols in place
Book accommodation early. With 35,000+ attendees, properties fill up fast.
💰 Economic Impact and Investment Opportunities
The economic implications of this summit extend far beyond five days. Investments worth nearly USD 70 billion are already flowing into the AI infrastructure layer. Here’s what’s truly exciting—the potential to double by the summit’s conclusion.
These aren’t speculative investments (and trust me, this is huge). They represent concrete commitments to building AI capabilities in India.
Infrastructure Investment Breakdown
Infrastructure development tops the priority list:
- Data Centers – Massive capital expenditure planned
- Computing Facilities – GPU clusters and AI supercomputers
- Telecommunications Networks – 5G and fiber optic expansion
- Research Labs – Public and private sector collaborations
These investments create jobs. They stimulate local economies. They position India as a global AI hub for decades to come.
Startup Ecosystem Opportunities
Startup ecosystems stand to benefit enormously. The summit features a startup showcase with over 500 AI startups. This visibility connects promising ventures with potential investors, partners, and customers.
Many startups will secure funding commitments during or immediately after the summit. Networking at this scale creates opportunities that don’t exist anywhere else.
Key Startup Sectors:
- Healthcare AI diagnostics
- Agricultural optimization
- Financial services automation
- Educational technology
- Smart city solutions
Long-Term Talent Development
The talent development dimension carries long-term significance. AI talent development will be scaled up by extending AI infrastructure and industry-finalized curricula to 500 universities. This creates a strong talent pipeline for the sector.
These educational initiatives will supply the human capital needed to sustain India’s AI ambitions for decades. Today’s students become tomorrow’s AI leaders.
🌍 Global South Representation and Inclusive AI
The summit’s location in India carries enormous symbolic weight. This marks the first time a Global South nation hosts such a significant AI governance forum. Growing recognition that AI policy can’t be dictated exclusively by developed nations.
The AI Impact Summit Delhi 2026 embraces diversity in AI development. India’s linguistic and cultural diversity positions it strongly for advancing multi-lingual and multi-modal AI systems tailored to diverse public needs.
This diversity becomes a strategic advantage rather than an obstacle.
Regional Preparatory Conferences
Regional conferences preceded the main summit. Seven regional AI Impact Conferences and over 480 pre-summit events helped ground national AI priorities in regional contexts.
These grassroots consultations ensure outcomes reflect diverse perspectives. They prevent imposing top-down solutions that don’t work locally.
Addressing Global South Priorities
Specific needs Global South nations bring to AI discussions:
- Affordability – AI solutions must work within resource constraints
- Accessibility – Systems functioning with limited internet connectivity
- Cultural Relevance – AI understanding local languages and customs
- Appropriate Technology – Solutions working on older devices
These aren’t nice-to-haves. They’re requirements for AI that actually serves billions of people.
🔬 Research and Innovation Showcase
The academic dimension strengthens the summit’s intellectual foundation. The Research Symposium on ‘AI and its Impact’ has received strong response from both national and global research communities. Over 250+ submissions have been received. It’s scheduled for February 18, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam.
This symposium connects cutting-edge research with practical applications.
Key Research Focus Areas
Research areas receiving special emphasis:
- Healthcare Applications – AI tools that diagnose diseases faster, help doctors read X-rays and MRI scans
- Agricultural Innovations – Help farmers optimize yields, manage water resources, predict weather patterns
- Educational Tools – Democratize access to quality learning, personalized tutoring at scale
- Governance Applications – Improve public service delivery, reduce bureaucracy, increase transparency
Each application has real-world impact potential that extends far beyond labs and papers.
Massive Exhibition Scale
The startup ecosystem receives substantial attention. Summit week will feature more than 500 curated events, including the AI Impact Expo with over 840 exhibitors.
These exhibitions transform abstract concepts into tangible demonstrations. Attendees can interact directly with AI systems, understanding their capabilities and limitations firsthand.
Youth Innovation Programs
Youth participation adds energy and fresh perspectives. India has launched initiatives specifically targeting young innovators. These programs recognize that today’s students will shape tomorrow’s AI landscape.
Their creative approaches often challenge conventional thinking and inspire breakthrough innovations. Who knows? The next big AI innovation might come from a college student at this summit.
🌐 What This Summit Means for Global AI Governance
The India AI Summit 2026 attendees will collectively shape frameworks that govern AI development worldwide. The decisions made during these five days will influence AI policy for years. Here’s how it’ll happen.
International working teams develop specific recommendations. Over 100 countries worldwide have engaged through these working groups to shape a future of responsible and inclusive AI.
These collaborative processes build consensus across diverse stakeholders. The resulting frameworks balance innovation with safety, progress with responsibility.
Expected Policy Outcomes
Concrete outputs we can expect:
- Policy Guidelines – Ethical AI development frameworks
- Safety Standards – AI testing and validation protocols
- Technology Transfer – Mechanisms for developing nations
- Inclusive Development – Commitments to equitable AI access
These aren’t wishes—they’re deliverables with implementation timelines.
Building on Previous Summits
The summit builds on previous international AI forums. It follows the AI Action Summit in Paris (February 2025), the AI Seoul Summit (2024), and the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit (2023).
Comparison with Previous AI Summits:
| Summit | Location | Year | Focus | Attendees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bletchley Park | UK | 2023 | AI Safety | Government officials |
| Seoul Summit | South Korea | 2024 | Safety & Innovation | Tech leaders |
| Paris Summit | France | 2025 | AI Action | Policy makers |
| India Summit | India | 2026 | Impact & Development | 35,000+ from 100+ countries |
Each summit advances the global conversation while addressing emerging challenges. India’s emphasis on development outcomes represents a crucial evolution.
📝 Preparing for the Summit: What Stakeholders Should Know
Media organizations covering the event need proper accreditation. Media Accreditation for the Summit is LIVE. Only accredited media representatives will be permitted to cover summit proceedings. Applications must be submitted online through the official portal.
Early application ensures access to key sessions and speakers.
For Industry Participants
Networking opportunities abound, but strategic planning maximizes value:
- Identify specific sessions aligned with your interests
- Schedule meetings with potential partners or investors in advance
- Prepare clear, concise explanations of your work or proposals
- Bring business cards and marketing materials
- Download the official summit app for real-time updates
Don’t just show up. Have a plan. The difference between productive networking and wandering aimlessly is preparation.
For Policymakers
Policymakers should engage with working groups relevant to their jurisdictions. These forums offer chances to shape international standards before they’re finalized.
Active participation ensures your country’s concerns receive consideration in global frameworks. This is your opportunity to influence policy that’ll affect millions.
For Researchers and Academics
Researchers and academics benefit from the symposium component. Scheduled for February 19-20, 2026 in New Delhi, the Summit brings together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, startups, civil society, and international organizations.
Presenting research builds reputation and opens collaboration opportunities. Plus, feedback from practitioners helps refine theoretical work.
Registration & Virtual Participation
How to Register:
- Visit impact.indiaai.gov.in
- Complete the online registration form
- Select your participation category (in-person or virtual)
- Pay applicable fees (if any)
- Receive confirmation email with access details
Virtual Participation Options:
- Live streaming of keynote sessions
- Virtual networking lounges
- Q&A sessions with speakers
- Access to presentation materials
- Recorded sessions available post-event
Virtual options ensure global accessibility for those who can’t travel to New Delhi.
🎯 Key Takeaways & What’s Next
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 represents a watershed moment for global AI governance. Here’s what you need to know:
✅ Essential Facts:
- Dates: February 16-20, 2026
- Location: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
- Expected Attendance: 35,000+ from 100+ countries
- Investment Commitments: USD 70 billion (potential to double)
- Exhibitors: 840+ across multiple pavilions
- Startups Showcasing: 500+
This summit is to AI what Davos is to global economics. It’s where the future gets shaped.
The India AI conference 2026 emphasizes development-first approaches. It prioritizes people over profits, inclusion over exclusivity. For once, emerging economies have a seat at the table where decisions get made.
Next Steps:
- Register Early – Don’t wait until the last minute
- Plan Your Agenda – Review the full schedule when available
- Book Accommodation – Hotels fill up fast
- Arrange Travel – Apply for visas if needed
- Prepare Questions – Make the most of Q&A opportunities
- Follow Updates – Check official channels regularly
The world is watching. India has an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in responsible AI development. The India AI 2026 summit will set the tone for the next decade of AI governance.
Will policy frameworks balance innovation with safety? Can AI development truly become inclusive? Will emerging economies get the support they need?
We’ll find out in February. See you in New Delhi.
Register for the India AI Impact Summit 2026 →
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact India AI Summit 2026 dates and location?
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 takes place February 16-20, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The venue is centrally located and well-connected by Delhi Metro (Supreme Court Station), road networks, and public transport. Exhibition hours run 10 AM – 6 PM daily, with special evening networking events.
Which top tech leaders are confirmed as India AI Summit 2026 attendees?
Confirmed attendees include Bill Gates (Gates Foundation), Sam Altman (OpenAI), Sundar Pichai (Google/Alphabet), Jensen Huang (NVIDIA), Dario Amodei (Anthropic), David Zapolsky (Amazon), and Alexandr Wang (Meta). The summit expects 15-20 Heads of Government, 50+ international ministers, and 40+ global CEOs from 100+ countries.
How do I register for the India AI conference 2026?
Visit impact.indiaai.gov.in to complete the online registration form. Select your participation category (in-person or virtual), pay applicable fees, and receive confirmation via email. Early registration is recommended as the event has already received 35,000+ registrations. Virtual participation options include live streaming, networking lounges, and recorded sessions.
What makes the AI Impact Summit Delhi 2026 different from previous AI summits?
This is the first major global AI summit hosted in the Global South, emphasizing development-focused outcomes rather than just safety discussions. It features 500+ curated events, 840+ exhibitors, and working groups specifically addressing emerging economies’ AI needs. The summit prioritizes people-centric AI, job creation, and practical governance aligned with developing nations’ requirements.
What investment opportunities exist around the India AI 2026 summit?
Nearly USD 70 billion in AI infrastructure investments are already committed, with potential to double by the summit’s conclusion. The event features a startup showcase with 500+ AI startups across healthcare, agriculture, fintech, education, and smart city sectors. Networking opportunities connect innovators with investors, strategic partners, and government agencies offering grants and support programs.
What is the India AI policy 2026 framework being discussed?
The framework is anchored on three pillars: People, Planet, and Progress. It’s organized around seven Chakras (working groups) covering human capital development, safe AI, inclusion, innovation, economic development, AI resources, and social good. Over 200 sector-specific AI models will be launched during the summit, demonstrating practical policy implementation.
Are there virtual participation options for who is attending India AI Summit 2026?
Yes, virtual participation is available. Options include live streaming of keynote sessions, virtual networking lounges, Q&A sessions with speakers, access to presentation materials, and recorded sessions available post-event. This ensures global accessibility for attendees who can’t travel to New Delhi.
