India to Host First-Ever Global AI Summit in the Global South in 2026

India is preparing to host a major international event called the India AI Impact Summit 2026. The summit is scheduled to take place from February 16 to 20, 2026, in the capital city of New Delhi. The main venue for this important gathering will be Bharat Mandapam, a large conference space in the city. The summit is organized by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, known as MeitY, which is a part of the Indian government. The goal of the event is to bring together experts, government leaders, businesses, and technology developers from around the world to talk about artificial intelligence or AI. This summit is unique because it is the first global AI gathering to be hosted in the Global South. This region includes countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and parts of Oceania, and hosting this event marks a significant milestone for India and similar nations. During the summit, there will be over 700 sessions. These sessions will cover important topics such as AI safety, governance frameworks, ethical standards, data security, and India's own AI policies. Experts will discuss how to make AI safe and fair for everyone, and how to create clear rules for its use. In addition to the sessions, the summit will feature the India AI Impact Expo 2026, which will showcase the latest innovations in AI. There will be over 300 exhibitors from 30 different countries. These exhibitors will present their advancements and new ideas in special themed pavilions, highlighting progress in the global AI ecosystem. The event is expected to attract about 35,000 delegates. These include business leaders, government officials, and world executives. Several heads of state are also expected to attend, making it a major international event. The summit is guided by three main principles: People, Planet, and Progress. These principles focus on how AI can benefit humanity, protect the environment, and help nations grow economically. Following the theme of global cooperation and innovation, the summit will focus on creating a future where AI development is safe, ethical, and inclusive. The event aims to foster dialogue and partnerships that will shape the future of AI for years to come. The India AI Impact Summit 2026 will be a significant gathering for discussing how artificial intelligence can be used responsibly and effectively. It highlights India's role in leading conversations on AI's ethical use and safety standards. This summit also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration. By bringing together experts from many countries, India hopes to set a global example on how to manage AI growth responsibly. In summary, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 is a major upcoming event. It will be a platform for discussing AI’s future, showcasing innovations, and creating partnerships. With its focus on safety, ethics, and inclusiveness, the summit aims to influence the development of AI worldwide, while highlighting India’s growing role in this field.