The India AI Impact Summit 2026 will place a strong spotlight on startups, students, and grassroots innovation, according to details shared by the IndiaAI Mission. The Summit, organised by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), aims to create an inclusive and impact-driven AI ecosystem.

Among the flagship initiatives is the India AI Tinkerpreneur challenge, which will showcase the top 50 AI projects developed by school students from Classes 6 to 12. Another key highlight is UDAAN, a global AI pitch fest designed to connect high-potential startups with investors, policymakers, and ecosystem enablers.

The Summit will also host an AI Impact Expo at Bharat Mandapam, featuring innovations from global players, Indian states, enterprises, and startups. Additionally, six international compendiums on AI applications in Health, Energy, Gender, Agriculture, Education, and Disabilities will showcase high-impact public-good use cases.

Secretary MeitY S. Krishnan emphasised that democratizing access to AI resources is critical to ensuring innovation beyond a few dominant regions or companies. Over 300 pre-summit events and regional AI impact conferences are helping shape the agenda, ensuring it reflects the aspirations of a Viksit Bharat.

The Summit is expected to serve as a launchpad for the next generation of AI innovators.