Why in news?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) unveiled the logo and key initiatives for the India‑AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled for 19–20 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. It will be the first AI summit hosted by a Global South nation.
Aims and guiding principles
- Purpose: Showcase AI’s role in inclusive growth, sustainability and social good. Build a shared vision for ethical, inclusive and equitable AI.
- Guiding sutras: The summit is anchored on three sutras—People, Planet and Progress. Seven thematic ‘chakras’ will address human capital, inclusion, safe and trusted AI, resilience, science, democratising AI resources and AI for social good.
Flagship initiatives
- UDAAN Global AI Pitch Fest: A platform for AI startups from around the world to pitch solutions in sectors like healthcare, agriculture and education.
- YuvaAI Innovation Challenge: A competition for students and young innovators to develop socially beneficial AI tools. An accompanying AI by HER challenge encourages women entrepreneurs.
- Global Innovation Challenge for All: An open call to solve pressing global problems using AI, with mentorship and seed funding for winners.
- AI Expo and Research Symposium: Exhibitions and academic sessions showcasing India’s AI ecosystem and collaborative research opportunities.
- Indigenous models: India plans to launch eight foundational AI models covering Indian languages, healthcare, agriculture, science and governance. A network of 570 Data & AI Labs will support local innovation.
- IndiaAI Fellowship Programme: Expanded to train 13,500 scholars in AI research and applications.
Significance
- Positions India as a leader in responsible and inclusive AI development.
- Encourages collaboration between industry, academia and startups across the Global South.
- Promotes AI solutions tailored to local challenges in health, education and climate resilience.