Delhi to Host the World’s Largest ‘AI Mahakumbh’: Over 100 Countries to Participate, Pakistan Excluded
AI Impact Summit 2026: India is fully prepared to assert its leadership in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). From February 16 to 20, 2026, New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam will host the historic AI-Impact Summit, bringing together representatives from more than 100 countries. However, what has drawn significant attention is India’s decision to exclude neighboring Pakistan from this prestigious global platform.
Summit Based on Three Core Pillars
This global summit is being described as the first major AI-focused gathering of its kind in the Global South. The theme of the event is structured around three fundamental pillars:
- Planet: Leveraging technology to address environmental protection and climate change challenges.
- Progress: Driving economic growth and achieving new milestones in social development.
These guiding principles aim to align AI innovation with sustainable and inclusive development goals.
Gathering of Global Leaders and Tech Giants
On the personal invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, more than 20 Heads of State and ministers from 45 countries are expected to attend.
The summit is also likely to witness the presence of global tech leaders such as:
- Sundar Pichai (Google)
- Sam Altman (OpenAI)
- Jensen Huang (Nvidia)
- Elon Musk
Additionally, UN Secretary-General António Guterres is expected to participate in the event.
Why Was Pakistan Not Invited?
The selection of participating nations is said to be based on India’s strategic priorities and its vision for “Responsible AI.” According to sources, India aims to collaborate with countries that share a common commitment to the safe, ethical, and human-centric development of AI.
While no official reason has been provided for Pakistan’s exclusion, the move is widely being interpreted as part of India’s broader strategic diplomacy.
Policy Frameworks and Startup Showcase
The five-day summit will extend beyond speeches and panel discussions. Key flagship programs such as:
- AI by HER (focused on women-led innovation)
- YUVAi (dedicated to youth engagement in AI)
will also be featured.
The primary objective of the summit is to establish global AI standards and explore practical AI solutions in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and education.
With this mega event, India aims to position itself at the forefront of shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence on the global stage.
