New Delhi, February 16, 2026 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the India AI Impact Expo 2026 on Monday at the iconic Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence. The high-profile event is being held in conjunction with the India AI Impact Summit 2026, which is notably the first international AI summit to be hosted in the Global South.

The Expo, which runs from February 16 to 20, is envisioned as a national showcase of AI in action, designed to bridge the gap between policymaking, technological innovation, and large-scale implementation. The Prime Minister spent time interacting with innovators and founders, personally visiting multiple exhibition pavilions and engaging with startups that are poised to redefine various sectors.

PM Modi Emphasises ‘Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya’

In his address, and in posts welcoming global attendees, PM Modi underscored India’s philosophy for technology, stating that the Summit’s theme is “Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya”—welfare for all, happiness for all.

The Prime Minister stated that India stands at the forefront of the AI transformation, a position that reflects both ambition for growth and a deep sense of responsibility. The country’s expanding digital public infrastructure and a vibrant startup ecosystem are central to this commitment, driving AI application across critical areas such as:

Healthcare and Diagnostics
Education and Adaptive Learning
Agriculture and Crop Management
Governance and Public Service Delivery

A Global Platform for AI Collaboration

The sheer scale of the Expo underscores India’s intent to shape global AI norms and foster international cooperation. The exhibition floor spans over 70,000 square metres across 10 dedicated arenas, attracting a massive international turnout.

Key statistics and participants at the India AI Impact Expo:

Startups: Over 600 high-potential Indian startups are showcasing globally relevant, population-scale AI solutions.
Exhibitors: More than 300 curated exhibition pavilions and live demonstrations are on display.
International Presence: The event features 13 country pavilions, signalling close international collaboration. Countries represented include the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, France, Australia, and Russia, among others.

The extensive gathering has brought together global political leaders, heads of state, top technology executives, startup founders, and researchers to deliberate on the future of artificial intelligence through the critical lenses of inclusion, responsibility, and measurable impact.

Three Pillars of Progress: People, Planet, and Progress

The exhibition pavilions are meticulously structured around three thematic “chakras,” or foundational pillars, which align with the national vision for leveraging technology for social good: People, Planet, and Progress. This framework ensures that the focus remains on leveraging AI not just for economic gain but also for societal benefit and environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, in a major commitment to building a comprehensive domestic ecosystem, the government has already invested over ₹10,372 crore under the IndiaAI Mission. This investment is aimed at accelerating research, fostering indigenous innovation, and democratising access to AI resources across the country. Union Ministers also highlighted the upcoming “Create in India” mission, which is designed to be an industry, employment, and future-oriented initiative to capitalise on India’s burgeoning tech capabilities.

With an expected participation of over 2.5 lakh visitors, the India AI Impact Expo cements New Delhi’s position as a dynamic, influential hub for AI policy, innovation, and ethical development on the global stage.

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