India-AI Impact Summit 2026

• 20 Sep 2025

Why in News?

The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has unveiled initiatives and the logo for the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, which is set to be hosted by India.

Key Points

• About: It is scheduled to take place from 19th to 20th February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and will bring together global leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators. 
  • This summit, the first to be hosted by a Global South country, will focus on People, Planet, and Progress.
  • With AI’s transformative potential in focus, the summit will also feature discussions on seven thematic Chakras addressing global AI challenges and opportunities.

• Official Logo and Key Symbols: The official logo of the Summit draws inspiration from the Ashoka Chakra, a symbol of India's ethical governance and constitutional values. 
  • From this central emblem, neural network flares radiate outward, symbolizing AI’s transformative impact across industries, languages, and regions, helping to bridge divides and promote inclusive progress.
• Key Initiatives Launched:
  • AI Pitch Fest (UDAAN): A platform to showcase innovative AI startups globally, with special emphasis on ventures from India's Tier 2 & 3 cities, including those led by women and differently-abled changemakers.
  • IndiaAI Data and AI Labs: The first 30 IndiaAI Data and AI Labs have been launched, marking the initial phase of the 570-lab network. These labs will offer foundational AI and data training under the FutureSkills initiative, focusing on skill development in AI and data annotation across Tier 2 & 3 cities.
  • IndiaAI Fellowship Program: The IndiaAI Fellowship Program is expanded to support 13,500 scholars, with a focus on students from diverse disciplines such as engineering, medicine, law, commerce, and liberal arts.