AI Impact Summit 2026: Spotlight on Inclusive and Responsible AI Governance
Ahead of the highly anticipated India-AI Impact Summit, Indian envoys have emphasized the guiding philosophy of this global gathering, rooted in the principles of People, Planet, and Progress.
Thematic Foundation
The summit, woven around the theme of ‘Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya’—which translates to ‘Welfare for All, Happiness of All’—envisions a future where AI advances humanity, promotes inclusive growth, and protects our shared planet.
Official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted that ambassadors and consuls general have contributed to various publications globally to build momentum for the upcoming summit.
Insights from Indian Ambassadors
Indian ambassadors worldwide have shared their perspectives on the significance of the summit:
- Vani Rao, Ambassador to Italy, stated, “AI systems succeed only when skills, trust, infrastructure, and access evolve together. Governance, from this perspective, is not separate from innovation, but is an integral part of it.”
- Abhilasha Joshi, Ambassador to Chile, remarked, “The India AI Mission marked a pivotal step in positioning India as a global leader in artificial intelligence.”
- Manish Prabhat, Ambassador to Denmark, noted, “India’s experience shows that AI’s revolutionary potential must be available to people all over the world.”
- Upender Singh Rawat, High Commissioner to Uganda, expressed, “The summit will showcase practical AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance.”
- Vanlalvawna Rawitlung, Ambassador to Cambodia, mentioned, “India’s AI scene is booming.”
Event Details
The India-AI Impact Summit is set to take place from February 16 to 20, 2026 in New Delhi, marking the first-ever global AI summit hosted in the Global South. It will be anchored in three guiding “sutras”—People, Planet, and Progress—and structured around seven key “chakras”.
The event will see participation from twenty leaders worldwide, with ministerial delegations from over 45 countries expected to attend, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and several heads of state.
Program Structure
Designed as a comprehensive five-day program, the summit will encompass discussions on policy, research, industry, and public engagement. It aims to gather global leaders, policymakers, technology companies, innovators, and experts to deliberate on AI’s role in governance, innovation, and sustainable development.
This summit builds on India’s development-focused approach to artificial intelligence, aligning with the India AI Mission and the Digital India initiative. It emphasizes the translation of global AI discussions into practical, people-centric outcomes.
Aims and Objectives
The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 seeks to foster dialogue on:
- Responsible AI governance
- Innovation ecosystems
- Digital public infrastructure
- Climate-conscious technology
- Equitable access to emerging technologies
Envisioned as a pivotal global platform, the summit aims to shape a future-oriented agenda for inclusive, responsible, and impactful AI. It aspires to move beyond high-level discussions, delivering tangible outcomes that support economic growth, social development, and the sustainable use of artificial intelligence.
