Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, calling it the world’s largest and historic AI summit hosted by a nation representing one-sixth of humanity.
Addressing global leaders, innovators, and policymakers from over 100 countries, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s unique strengths — the world’s largest youth population, the biggest tech talent pool, and a thriving digital ecosystem. He emphasised that 140 crore Indians are eager to embrace new technologies, making India a natural hub for AI adoption and innovation.
Shri Modi underlined the strong presence of youth at the summit, noting their unprecedented trust and enthusiasm in adopting AI. He praised the innovative solutions showcased in agriculture, security, accessibility for divyangjan, and multilingual applications, describing them as reflections of the strength of Made in India.
Placing AI in the context of historic turning points in human civilisation, the Prime Minister remarked that Artificial Intelligence represents a transformation of the same magnitude as the discovery of fire, the invention of script, and the advent of wireless communication. He stressed that while AI multiplies human capability, its impact depends on the direction humanity chooses today.
Drawing parallels with nuclear power, Shri Modi cautioned that AI could be disruptive if directionless, but transformative if guided responsibly. He emphasised that the summit’s purpose is to deliberate on making AI human-centric, sensitive, and responsible.
The Prime Minister unveiled India’s M.A.N.A.V. Vision for AI, which stands for:
- M – Moral and Ethical Systems: AI must be based on ethical guidelines.
- A – Accountable Governance: Transparent rules and robust oversight.
- N – National Sovereignty: Data belongs to its rightful owner.
- A – Accessible and Inclusive: AI must not be a monopoly, but a multiplier.
- V – Valid and Legitimate: AI must be lawful and verifiable.
He asserted that this vision, aligned with the summit’s theme “Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya” (Welfare for all, Happiness of all), will serve as a crucial link for humanity’s welfare in the AI-driven 21st century.
The event witnessed participation from global dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, UN Secretary General, Heads of State, ministers, multilateral representatives, and industry leaders, marking India’s growing leadership in shaping the global AI discourse.
Artificial Intelligence marks a transformative chapter in human history. pic.twitter.com/Cf11ffKYQx
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 19, 2026
We must democratise AI.
It must become a tool for inclusion and empowerment, particularly for the Global South. pic.twitter.com/IzH67U2uRR
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 19, 2026
The M.A.N.A.V. vision for AI. pic.twitter.com/NVmxQ8bXq6
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 19, 2026
We are entering an era where humans and intelligent systems co-create, co-work and co-evolve.
AI will make our work smarter, more efficient and more impactful. pic.twitter.com/loDFaQt0Wm
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 19, 2026
AI for Global Common Good. pic.twitter.com/CaRhFeuyiK
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 19, 2026
In AI, India sees opportunity and the blueprint of tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/40HzjCROXz
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 19, 2026
