Narendra Modi Inaugurates AI Impact Summit Amid Opening Day Disruptions
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi on Monday, presenting it as a landmark event to showcase India’s ambitions in artificial intelligence. The summit aims to position the country as a leading force in emerging technologies and global digital governance.
However, the opening day faced a wave of online criticism. Attendees reported long queues, overcrowding and organisational lapses at the venue. Consequently, the logistical challenges quickly became a talking point across social media platforms.
Disruption Overshadows Technology Showcase
Participants said confusion at entry points and limited seating disrupted the experience for many delegates. As a result, frustration mounted among visitors who had gathered to attend sessions and exhibitions.
For Modi’s government, the disarray risks more than negative publicity. The summit carries international significance, and officials designed it to project India’s technological prowess on a global stage. Therefore, the organisational shortcomings threatened to overshadow the core message of innovation and leadership.
While the event intended to highlight advancements in artificial intelligence, attention shifted towards crowd management and coordination issues. This shift in focus created a challenging start for organisers.
Platform For Developing Nations
Indian officials have positioned the summit, which runs until February 20, as a platform to amplify the voices of developing nations in global AI governance. They aim to demonstrate that emerging economies can play a central role in shaping ethical frameworks, regulatory standards and technological collaboration.
Notably, Delhi marks the first time the global event has taken place in the developing world. This milestone reflects India’s efforts to assert itself as a key participant in international AI discourse.
Through the summit, the government seeks to promote inclusive growth and encourage cooperation among nations navigating rapid technological change. At the same time, it aims to underline India’s growing digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystem.
Despite the opening day setbacks, the summit continues with a packed agenda. Organisers will likely attempt to restore focus on policy discussions and technological showcases over the remaining days. Nevertheless, the early criticism highlights the importance of execution when hosting an event intended to symbolise national ambition and global leadership in artificial intelligence.