Highlights from India AI Summit 2026
The India AI Impact Summit 2026 has made headlines with its announcement of an extension by one day, reflecting the overwhelming interest in the event. This summit, held at the Bharat Mandapam, spans across 10 arenas covering 70,000 square metres and attracts delegates from various countries, showcasing the significance of artificial intelligence in India's future.
One of the highlights of the summit was the unveiling of AI models by Bengaluru-based Sarvam AI, designed specifically for the Indian context. These models support 22 Indian languages, making AI more accessible to the vast population that may not be proficient in English. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of positioning India as a leader in emerging technologies.
In a significant move, Microsoft announced an investment of $50 billion by 2030 to improve AI access in the Global South. The company’s Vice Chairman, Brad Smith, emphasized the widening gap in AI adoption between the Global North and South. He stated that urgent action is needed to avoid a growing divide in this essential technology, echoing the historical disparities seen in electricity access.
However, not all news from the summit was positive. A controversy erupted involving Galgotias University, which was asked to vacate its stall after displaying a Chinese robotic dog as its own creation. The university faced backlash for misrepresenting the exhibit, prompting officials to insist on genuine representations at the expo. This incident highlights the importance of credibility and authenticity in technological showcases.
The summit also featured notable figures, including Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet Inc., who expressed excitement about returning to India for the event. Additionally, discussions on the future of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) were led by Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, who acknowledged that while AGI is on the horizon, there are still hurdles to overcome.
Overall, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 has emerged as a pivotal platform for discussions on AI's future, its accessibility, and India's role in the global technology landscape.
