New Delhi is buzzing with anticipation as the AI Impact Summit 2026 kicks off on Monday, positioning India at the forefront of artificial intelligence innovation. Electronics and IT Secretary S. Krishnan revealed in an exclusive interview that preparations for this landmark event have been underway for nearly a year. It all began last February when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced during the AI Action Summit in France that India would host the 2026 edition.
Since then, the government has rallied institutions, organizations, and global partners. Multiple preparatory sessions were held, culminating in a massive expo. Over 250,000 registrations have poured in, underscoring the summit’s massive appeal.
The event boasts participation from heads of state or government from more than 20 countries, ministers from over 40 nations, 100+ international delegations, 100 CEOs, and around 500 academics and social sector experts. In total, 460 parallel programs will run, fostering unprecedented collaboration.
Krishnan emphasized that harnessing AI is crucial for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. ‘We must ride this technological wave in the nation’s interest,’ he stated.
Japan’s METI Deputy Director Takumi Miyakawa highlighted his country’s commitment, noting the new government’s seriousness about AI, backed by the Prime Minister. Japan is aiding its AI firms in model development and sees India as a key partner, with both governments discussing deeper ties.
Prasar Bharati’s former CEO and Padma Shri awardee Shashi Shekhar Vempati called it a proud moment for India. ‘Global leaders, industry titans, startups, young innovators, and researchers are converging here, signaling India’s leadership in AI,’ he said.
Under PM Modi’s guidance, India has emerged as the voice of the Global South, rejecting tech divides. Vempati drew parallels to India’s internet services dominance and predicted it will become the world’s AI provider. Just as India swiftly adopted vaccines during COVID, it’s now viewing AI as an opportunity amid global hesitations.
India’s strengths—largest democracy, vast English-speaking population, high mobile and internet penetration, advanced digital services, and growing AI literacy (as per Stanford reports)—position it perfectly. Vempati urged developing indigenous AI models and apps, not just consuming foreign ones. This summit will be a game-changer for startups, youth, and investors.