India AI Mission
Q1. What is the India AI Mission?
The India AI Mission aims to build a comprehensive ecosystem that fosters AI innovation by democratizing computing access, enhancing data quality, developing indigenous AI capabilities, attracting top AI talent, enabling industry collaboration, providing startup risk capital, ensuring socially impactful AI projects, and promoting ethical AI. This mission drives responsible and inclusive growth of India’s AI ecosystem through following seven pillars.- Compute, AI-Kosh, Application Development, Innovation, Future Skills, Startup Financing and Safe &Trusted AI.
Q2. How does the Mission connect to the Summit?
The Summit is hosted under the India AI Mission and helps drive global collaboration on the Mission’s impact goals.
Q3. What is India AI’s focus in one line?
“Make AI accessible, useful, and responsible—at national scale.”
Q4. What is India doing on compute capacity?
India AI is offering 38,000+ GPUs to support startups and research. Eligible users can access AI compute at up to 40% reduced cost under the India AI Mission.
Q5. What are India AI Data & AI Labs?
To democratize access to high-quality AI education, India AI is setting up 570 AI & Data Labs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. These labs, including those hosted at NIELIT Centers and in Government ITIs/Polytechnic Institutes, will provide hands-on exposure to tools, datasets, and problem-solving environments. They act as local hubs for innovation, experimentation, and collaborative learning.
Q6. What is India doing on foundation models?
Multiple indigenous foundation model initiatives are underway across multilingual and domain areas (health, science, industry, agriculture, governance).
Q7. How does India AI support students and researchers?
Through compute access, labs/training programs, and IndiAI fellowships for UG, Dual Degree, PG and PhD Students.
Q8. How does the Mission address responsible AI?
The Summit’s “Safe & Trusted AI” chakra and related governance focus reflect the Mission’s commitment to responsible development.
Q9. How can startups engage?
Through Summit-linked initiatives like pitch fests (e.g., UDAAN) and showcases at the AI Expo.
Q10. What is the simplest message to share with global partners about India AI?
“India wants to collaborate so AI is not limited to a few—shared access, shared safety practices, and real-world impact at scale.”
Venue
Q1. Which venues and halls are reserved for the Summit?
Venues reserved include Bharat Mandapam, Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, Vigyan Bhawan, and Dr. Ambedkar Bhawan, with specific halls blocked between 15th to 20th February 2026 as per the approved venue plan.
Q2. Are the venue dates and allocations final?
Yes, subject to security requirements, protocol considerations, and directions of the Competent Authority.
Q3. How will halls be allotted to sessions and side events?
Hall allocation will be done through a centralised roster based on session format, capacity, technical requirements, VIP presence, and security considerations.
Q4. Who should initiate requests for hall allocation?
Session owners must route requests through the Registration Team with details of date, time, expected attendance, seating layout, and stage requirements.
Q5. What responsibilities will be handled by the Event Management Company (EMC)?
The EMC will manage stage setup, seating, branding, signage, registration counters, helpdesks, and VIP lounge setup as per venue guidelines.
Q6. How will power, internet, and AV requirements be managed?
Venue-approved power distribution will be used. Internet will be provided via venue backbone, with dedicated lines available on request. Standard AV is included; specialised setups require advance approval.
Q7. How will access control and security be managed?
Access will be based on accreditation with zonal segregation for delegates, speakers, media, and VIPs. Hall capacities will be strictly enforced.
Q8. What is the coordination mechanism with STPI at Bharat Mandapam?
The Venue Management Team will manage utilities, permissions, and operations, while STPI will independently manage exhibitor operations and the Expo Control Room.
Q9. Will helpdesks be available at venues?
Yes. 24*7 helpdesks will be available at each venue cluster to support accreditation, AV coordination, signage, and F&B timing.
Q10. How can visitors reach Bharat Mandapam?
Bharat Mandapam is well connected via Delhi Metro and public transport. Visitors are encouraged to use the Metro to avoid traffic congestion.
Q11. Is parking available at the venue?
Parking is limited and primarily reserved for exhibitors and VIPs. Visitors are advised to use public transport or park-and-ride facilities if announced. Further information will be shared.
Q12. Are food and beverage facilities available?
Yes. Food courts and refreshment areas will be available within the venue during Expo hours.
Q13. Is the venue accessible for persons with disabilities?
Yes. Bharat Mandapam is fully accessible and equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Q14. Are bags and laptops allowed inside the venue?
Small bags and laptops are permitted, subject to security screening. Large luggage is not allowed.
Transport
Q1. Will transport facilities be provided to all participants?
No. Transport facilities will be provided only to eligible categories of participants as approved by the Competent Authority.
Q2. Who will arrange transport for Heads of Government / Heads of State?
Transport for Heads of Government / Heads of State will be arranged by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) as per established protocol.
Q3. Who will arrange transport for other participants?
India AI / Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) will arrange transport for approved categories including invited Speakers, panellists, judges, researchers, academic invitees, hackathon finalists/winners, selected students, and other approved participants on case to case basis.
Q4. What types of transport facilities are being provided?
Intra-city transport will be facilitated through:
- Dedicated vehicles (mini buses, premium sedans, sedans via empanelled vendors)
- Uber (Summit-enabled functionality)
- DMRC (Delhi Metro) passes for select participants
Q5. How does the Uber-based transport facility work?
A Summit-specific functionality will be enabled within the Uber mobile application. Eligible participants must register using their Summit registration number to access this feature.
Q6. How many trips are allowed per day under the Uber facility?
Up to four (3) trips per day per invitee who has been assigned this functionality.
Q7. Are there any geographical restrictions on Uber trips?
Yes. Trips will be geo-fenced and restricted to Summit-designated hotels, Summit venues, and other approved official locations.
Q8. Is airport pick-up and drop included?
Yes, to specific invitees. Airport pick-up and drop will only be available for eligible invitees including prominent researchers, speakers etc either by specially hired vehicles or under the UBER-based transport arrangement.
Q9. Will Metro (DMRC) passes be provided?
Yes. DMRC passes may be provided to students, researchers, and select participants to facilitate convenient travel.
Q10. Will special vehicles be arranged for certain participants?
Yes. Special vehicles may be arranged for prominent speakers, CEOs, judges, and select dignitaries through designated Liaison Officers, subject to approval and protocol requirements.
Q11. Will shuttle bus services be available?
Yes. Shuttle services are planned between select hotels and Summit venues, subject to final routing and demand.
Q12. Can participants use private taxis and claim reimbursement?
No. Reimbursement for self-arranged or privately hired transport will not be provided unless explicitly approved in advance.
Q13. Is transport provided for personal travel or sightseeing?
No. Transport facilities are strictly limited to official Summit-related movement.
Q14. What happens if a participant does not use the provided transport?
No monetary compensation or alternative benefit will be provided for non-utilisation.
Q15. Who should be contacted for transport-related assistance?
Details of a dedicated Transport & Mobility Helpdesk will be communicated separately to eligible participants.
Registration and Access Control
Q1. How can I register for the India AI event?
Registrations are accepted only through the India AI website. Participation is subject to approval by MeitY. Once the registration is approved and confirmed, participants can collect their passes from the designated venue (details will be shared on the website).
Q2. Is there a deadline to register?
Yes, registration is open until the deadline mentioned on the official website. Participants are advised to check the website regularly for the latest dates and updates.
Q3. Where can I pick up my badges physically?
The complete list of locations will be communicated via the IndiaAI website. Please visit
https://impact.indiaai.gov.in
regularly for the latest updates.
Q4. Can anyone attend, or is it by invitation only?
The event can be attended through strict invitation-only requests and accepted registrations from the website (global leaders, innovators, researchers, startups, academia, civil society, youth, etc.), and general registration is available on the website. However, high-level sessions may prioritize or require approval for certain delegates (e.g., heads of state, ministers).
Q5. Is there a registration fee?
No registration fee is required for the participation as of now, any confirmation will further be shared via the website.
Q6. Are there different categories of registration (e.g., delegate types)?
Yes, there are different types of categories to attend the events; the updated list mentioning all access levels will be updated on the website.
Q7. Where are the key help points?
“Registration/help desk, protocol desk, speaker ready room (if applicable), medical help, and security control points.”
Q8. What happens after I submit my registration?
After submission, you will likely receive a confirmation email. Registered participants typically receive approval and further instructions. A digital or physical badge may be issued for entry—collect it on-site. The collection site will be updated on the India AI website.
Q9. Who should I contact for registration queries or issues?
Kindly email your concerns or queries to the following emails:
Impactsummit-contact@India AI.gov.in
Impactsummit-comms@India AI.gov.in
Q10. How is access controlled at the venue?
Access to Bharat Mandapam is expected to be badge-based, with security checks standard for high-profile government-hosted events. Only registered and approved participants will be granted entry. On-site verification (e.g., ID matching the registration) may be required. Specific access rules (e.g., timed entry, restricted zones for plenary sessions) will be communicated post-registration.
Q11. How can media register for the event?
Media accreditation is available through the official website. After registration and approval confirmation, approved media personnel will receive badges for access to designated areas.
Q12. How can visitors register for the Expo?
Visitors can register through the official website by clicking on “Get Your Access Pass” or “Register Now”. Online pre-registration is strongly recommended.
Q13. Is there an entry fee for visitors?
Entry fee depends on the category selected during registration. Certain categories such as students or general visitors may receive free or subsidized access, subject to confirmation on the portal.
Q14. Is on-spot registration available at the venue?
On-site registration counters may be available; however, visitors are advised to register online in advance to avoid queues and ensure entry.
Q15. Is ID proof required for entry?
Yes. A valid government-issued photo ID (PAN Card, Passport, etc.) matching the registration details is required for security clearance.
Q16. Is the entry pass valid for all days?
Pass validity depends on the type selected during registration. Some passes are single-day, while others allow access for the full duration (16–20 February 2026).
Q17. Can someone collect my badge for me?
Usually, badges are issued to the registered person directly. For VIP protocols, the protocol desk can guide based on delegation rules.
Program, Themes, and Talking Points
Q1. What makes this Summit different from a normal conference?
It is designed to push beyond speeches into working groups, cooperation frameworks, and real outcomes, especially around inclusion and “AI for impact.”
Q2. What are the main discussion areas?
The seven Chakras: skills/jobs, inclusion, AI safety & trust, resilient and efficient AI, science collaboration, democratizing resources, and AI for social/economic good.
Q3. What is the simple “elevator pitch” for the Summit?
“India is convening the world to make AI useful, safe, and accessible—so benefits reach more countries and communities. It is the first time that a summit of this nature and scale is being held in a country from the Global South”
Q4. What are other activities around exhibition and Summit?
There would be cultural programs organised at amphitheatre primarily during the evening.
Q5. Is there any invite or entry fee for the cultural events?
No. The cultural events organized at amphitheatre are open to all participants of Exhibition and Summit.
Q6. Are there any side events being organized around this Summit?
As part of the main event we are doing 400+ events covering spectrum of topics linked to the 7 chakras. These sessions will be curated by global organizations from the private sector, industries and government bodies. They will be held across our four venues and are expected to have enthusiastic participation from people across the world especially from our Global South attendees of the summit. The tentative venues for these events will be Vigyan Bhawan, Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, Ambedkar Bhawan and Bharatmandapam.
Hospitality and Accommodation
Q1. Will hotel accommodation be provided to all participants?
No. Hotel accommodation will be provided only to eligible invitee categories as approved by the Competent Authority. Other participants must make their own arrangements.
Q2. Which participants will have accommodation facilitated by MEA?
MEA will facilitate protocol-based hotel allocation for: - Heads of Government / Heads of State
- Ministers
- Heads of International Organisations and approved delegations
Hotel expenses will ordinarily be borne by the invitees other than HoG / HQ unless approved otherwise.
Q3. Which participants will have accommodation arranged and paid for by India AI / MeitY?
India AI / MeitY will arrange and bear the cost for accommodation for approved categories including speakers, panellists, judges, researchers, academic invitees, hackathon finalists/winners, selected media representatives, and other approved invitees.
Q4. Which hotels will be used for MeitY-arranged accommodation?
Hotel The Ashok will be prioritised, subject to availability. Spillover requirements may be met through other empanelled 3-star or 4-star hotels.
Q5. Can participants choose their hotel or room category?
No. Hotel and room allocation will be done through a centralised roster system. Requests for changes cannot be accommodated.
Q6. What is the duration of stay covered?
Accommodation will be limited to the official dates of participation. Any extension beyond approved dates will be at the participant’s own cost and subject to availability.
Q7. What facilities are included in the provided accommodation?
Accommodation generally includes a room with breakfast and standard hotel amenities. Additional services will be charged directly to the participant.
Q8. Is early check-in or late check-out allowed?
Early check-in or late check-out is subject to hotel availability and may attract additional charges, unless explicitly approved.
Q9. When will hotel confirmation details be shared?
Eligible participants will receive hotel allocation details through official communication closer to the event dates.
Q10. Can accompanying persons avail accommodation?
No. Accommodation is provided only for officially registered and approved participants.
Q11. What happens if accommodation is not utilised?
No reimbursement or compensation will be provided for non-utilisation.
Q12. Are hotel arrangements subject to change?
Yes. All arrangements are subject to availability, security considerations, protocol requirements, and directions of the Competent Authority.
Q13. Who should be contacted for hotel-related assistance?
Details of a dedicated Hotel Accommodation Helpdesk will be communicated separately.
Expo
Q1. What is the India AI Impact Expo 2026?
India AI Impact Expo 2026 is a premier global platform showcasing India’s AI ecosystem and innovation. The Expo is organised around seven thematic zones (“Chakras”) covering areas such as Health, Agriculture, Science, Human Capital, Safe & Trusted AI, Inclusion, and Democratizing AI Resources.
Q2. What are 3 sutras- “People, Planet, Progress”?
They are the Summit’s 3 guiding principles (Sutras): - People: AI should serve humanity and be safe and inclusive.
- Planet: AI should be resource-efficient and support sustainability.
- Progress: AI benefits should be shared fairly; access to compute/data/models should widen.
Q3. When and where is the Expo taking place?
The Expo will be held from 16–20 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
Q4. What is the Expo scale?
It is a very large-scale exhibition with high attendee and exhibitor participation, featuring startups, enterprises, and public sector solutions.
Q5. What kinds of solutions are showcased at the Expo?
A broad spread: public sector, startups, enterprises, and sectoral solutions (health, agriculture, governance, fintech, cybersecurity, etc.).
Q6. Who should attend the Expo?
The Expo is open to students, researchers, startups, industry professionals, policymakers, academia, government officials, and members of the general public interested in Artificial Intelligence and its real-world applications.
Q7. What are the “Seven Chakras”?
The Seven Chakras are thematic pavilions guiding visitors through different dimensions of AI, including Economic Development, Human Capital, Inclusion for Social Empowerment, Safe & Trusted AI, Science, Resilience, and Democratization of AI resources.
Q8. Will there be speakers, workshops, or masterclasses?
Yes. The Expo will feature global leaders, industry experts, policymakers, and academics, along with mentoring sessions, masterclasses, panel discussions, and curated engagements.
Q9. Who is eligible to exhibit at the Expo?
Indian and international corporates, startups, academic institutions, PSUs, government bodies, and ministries with AI-focused products, solutions, or research innovations are eligible.
Q10. What thematic zones can exhibitors apply for?
Exhibitors can apply under thematic zones such as Economic Development, Human Capital, Inclusion, Safe & Trusted AI, Science, Resilience, and Democratizing AI Resources.
Q11. Is the Expo only for large corporates?
No. Dedicated participation formats are available for startups, academia, government entities, and PSUs, including cost-effective Startup Pods.
Q12. How can exhibitors book a stall or space?
Exhibitors must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the official website. Upon approval, payment links and allocation details will be shared.
Q13. What are the standard charges for Indian exhibitors?
CategoryRateAcademia / Research Organisations*9,000 per sq. m.Corporate (Domestic)25,000 per sq. m.Corporate (International)25,000 per sq. m. or equivalent USDCorporate (DPIIT-recognised Startups)12,500 per sq. m.Country RepresentationUSD 200 per sq. m.Government (Ministries & States)9,000 per sq. m.Public Sector Undertakings9,000 per sq. m.Startup Pods25,000 per podNGOs₹9,000 per sq. m. for first 100 sq. m. and ₹25,000 per sq. m. beyond 100 sq. m.Shell booth (available in 9 / 12 / 15 / 18 sq. m. sizes only)₹2,11,500 / ₹2,82,000 / ₹3,52,500 / ₹4,23,000 per sq. m., respectively.
Q14. Are special packages available for startups?
Yes. Dedicated Startup Pods are available at special rates. Interested startups should contact the organizing team for details.
Q15. What is the minimum booth size?
Standard shell scheme booths start at 9 sqm. Raw space options typically start from 18 sqm or higher.
Q16. What is included in a standard shell scheme booth?
Basic structure, fascia with company name, lighting, electrical socket, and basic furniture. Detailed specifications will be provided in the Exhibitor Manual.
Q17. When can exhibitors start stall setup?
Stall possession typically begins 24–48 hours prior to the Expo. Exact move-in schedules will be shared in advance.
Q18. Do exhibitors receive hotel accommodation or transport?
No. Hotel and transport arrangements are only for invited speakers and dignitaries. Exhibitors must make their own arrangements.
Q19. Can exhibitors customise booth design?
Raw space exhibitors may build custom booths through approved contractors. Shell scheme booths allow limited internal branding only.
Q20. Why should companies participate?
The Expo hosts 30+ countries and 300+ exhibitors, offering access to India’s AI market, policymakers, and global partnerships.
Q21. What are Country Pavilions?
Country Pavilions are dedicated zones allowing national delegations to showcase their AI ecosystem, policies, and innovations. These Pavillion areas are allocated to the countries who are being represented by HOG/HOS.
Q22. Can foreign companies exhibit independently?
Yes. International corporates may book independent booths under the “Corporate (International)” category.
Q23. How can international exhibitors make payments?
Payments are accepted via international bank transfer (SWIFT). Invoice and banking details will be shared after EOI approval.
Q24. How can international exhibitors make payments?
Yes. Upon confirmation and full payment, official Visa Invitation Letters will be issued.
Q25. Can exhibitors ship materials from abroad?
Yes. An official freight forwarder and customs clearing agent will be appointed to support international shipments.
Q26. Are there spaces available for Showcasing, conferencing, bilateral meetings and networking?
Yes there are such areas assigned within Bharatmandapam and Exhibition area. The venues inside Bharatmandapam are restricted access areas. There are such areas in Expo venues also which can be booked and utilized on payment basis.
The Conference Rooms and Demo Stages at the India AI Impact Expo 2026 serve as a dynamic hub for connecting AI theory with real-world application, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, startups, and global delegations under one roof.
The Demo Stages feature live, hands-on showcases of artificial intelligence across robotics, agentic workflows, generative AI, and sector-specific use cases, offering an immersive experience to witness AI technologies in action. These sessions enable exhibitors, startups, and solution providers to demonstrate real-world deployments, product capabilities, and breakthrough innovations in front of curated audiences. These spaces will be available in hall no.1, 2 & 6.
Complementing this experiential layer, the Conference venues which will be used for high-impact panel discussions, visionary keynotes, deep-dive masterclasses, and closed-door roundtables where industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators exchange insights on AI development, governance, regulation, ethics, and deployment at scale.
The spaces for bilateral meetings are also being carved out in hall 3,4,5. These Meeting Rooms provide a private, professional, and fully serviced environment, making them ideal for hosting curated sessions, strategic dialogues, closed-door roundtables, B2B meetings, deal discussions, and leadership interactions during the Expo.
Q27. Where are these Conference Centre located in ITPO?
The Expo features five state-of-the-art Conference Centres on the first floor of Hall 3, Hall 4, and Hall 5.
Q28. What are the facilities available in these conference centres?
Each conference centre is equipped with an audio-visual system, LED backdrops, a dais with furniture setup, internet connectivity, coffee/tea services, supported by conference room managers. For any other information Email: aiexposales10@stpi.in
