The India AI Impact Summit 2026 officially began on February 16 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, marking a milestone for India’s growing role in global technology leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India AI Expo 2026, while global leaders, including President Donald Trump, joined discussions on artificial intelligence, innovation, and policy. The summit runs until February 20 and is the first major AI event hosted in the Global South.
Modi’s Vision for AI
In his opening remarks, Modi emphasized that AI must be inclusive, ethical, and accessible to all nations. He highlighted India’s ambition to become a hub for AI innovation while ensuring that developing economies benefit from technological progress. Modi’s speech underscored India’s commitment to shaping global AI norms through collaboration and responsibility.
Trump’s Global Perspective
President Trump’s participation added a geopolitical dimension to the summit. He stressed the importance of U.S.–India cooperation in AI development, trade, and security. Trump’s remarks focused on building strong partnerships that balance innovation with national interests, reinforcing the Modi‑Trump dynamic as a central theme of the summit.
Global Tech Leaders in Attendance
The summit features an impressive lineup of technology leaders and policymakers:
- Sundar Pichai (Google): Advocating responsible AI deployment and highlighting Google’s investments in India’s digital ecosystem.
- Sam Altman (OpenAI): Discussing the future of generative AI and its potential to reshape industries.
- Dario Amodei (Anthropic): Presenting research on safe and transparent AI systems.
- Mukesh Ambani (Reliance Industries): Outlining India’s roadmap for AI‑driven telecom and digital services.
Over 100 countries are represented, with 15–20 heads of government, 50 ministers, and more than 40 CEOs participating.
Key Themes of the Summit
- AI for Inclusive Growth: Ensuring equitable access to AI resources.
- Ethical AI Governance: Establishing global rules for transparency and accountability.
- AI in Healthcare and Education: Leveraging technology to improve access and quality.
- AI and Security: Addressing cybersecurity, misinformation, and geopolitical risks.
India’s Strategic Position
Hosting the AI Impact Summit highlights India’s ambition to lead in global technology policy. Officials noted that this is the first time the summit is being hosted in a Global South country, reflecting India’s growing influence in shaping digital futures. Modi’s government has invested heavily in AI infrastructure under the IndiaAI Mission, signaling long‑term commitment.
Modi and Trump’s Joint Impact
The Modi‑Trump narrative has become a recurring theme throughout the summit. Analysts suggest that Modi’s emphasis on inclusivity and Trump’s focus on strategic partnerships create a complementary framework for global AI cooperation. Together, their influence is shaping discussions on trade, investment, and governance, with potential long‑term implications for both India and the United States.
Investor Sentiment
Global investors are closely watching the summit for signals on policy direction and investment opportunities. India’s push for AI infrastructure, combined with Trump’s advocacy for stronger U.S.–India ties, has created optimism about future collaborations. Sectors such as healthcare, fintech, and education are expected to attract significant funding.
Conclusion
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 is more than a technology conference — it is a platform where global leaders, including Modi and Trump, are shaping the future of artificial intelligence. With billions in potential investments, ethical governance debates, and groundbreaking innovations, the summit positions India at the heart of the AI revolution.
As discussions continue over the next five days, the world will be watching how Modi and Trump’s influence, combined with the vision of global tech leaders, defines the trajectory of AI in the coming decade.