The Research Symposium on artificial intelligence (AI) and its Impact is being organised as part of the India AI Impact Summit 2026 and has received a strong response with 250 submissions. It is designed to bring AI research closer to real-world decision-making and to serve as a bridge between research, policy and practice. The event is scheduled for 18 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam and will feature 30 selected posters under the Global South Poster Track, 15 from the India Forum Showcase and 15 under the Students Showcase. The Symposium has been conceived as an interdisciplinary forum bringing together leading researchers and practitioners from India, the Global South and the wider international community to present frontier work on the impact of AI, exchange methods and evidence, and forge collaborations. Participants will engage on key areas such as human capital, inclusion, safety and trust, resilience, innovation and science, and on the use of AI for economic growth and social good. The programme will broadly feature plenary keynotes and research dialogues, international research panels and the Global South Research and Posters Showcase. Plenary sessions will include in-depth discussions led by eminent Indian and international researchers exploring theoretical foundations, practical applications and societal implications of AI. The international research panels will offer short focused presentations by global research leaders highlighting cutting-edge methodologies, novel algorithms and breakthrough applications. During the Global South Research and Posters Showcase there will be a vibrant presentation of research by students and collaborative teams, celebrating emerging talent and fostering mentorship opportunities. The organisers expect the Symposium to yield clear implementable outcomes, stronger collaboration between research institutions and decision makers, and improved use of research to support responsible and impactful adoption of AI. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to visit the official summit website for more information and registration.