Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, opening a national platform for Artificial Intelligence (AI) demonstration and dialogue. The event brought together innovators, researchers and technology enthusiasts from across the country and abroad to showcase applications and research. The inauguration underscored the government’s intent to position India as a significant contributor to global AI development. The prime minister noted in a post on X that being among innovators, researchers and tech enthusiasts offered a clear view of the extraordinary potential of AI and Indian talent. He emphasised that progress in AI would enable transformative solutions for national priorities while also allowing India to contribute to global advancement. The remarks highlighted the role of collaborative research, start-ups and academic institutions in accelerating deployment and ethical use of AI. The event also prompted discussion on capacity building and skills development. The expo is expected to feature demonstrations, panel discussions and exhibitions spanning healthcare, agriculture, education and industry, illustrating applied AI solutions that address sectoral challenges. Participants will include researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and policy makers who are exploring pathways for scaling innovations and ensuring responsible governance frameworks. Organisers indicated that the platform aims to foster partnerships that translate research into deployable systems and catalyse investment in the AI ecosystem. Exhibits will demonstrate prototype systems and pilot projects in urban and rural contexts. The gathering was presented as part of a broader national strategy to nurture talent, encourage indigenous innovation and create exportable technological solutions from India. Officials described efforts to balance rapid adoption with safeguards to protect privacy, promote transparency and minimise bias in AI systems. The expo was framed as a step towards enabling India to shape global AI norms while delivering practical benefits to citizens. Stakeholders signalled interest in follow-up initiatives to accelerate commercialisation and standardisation.