Bill Gates To Attend AI Impact Summit: Confirms Gates Foundation

The clarification came amid rumours that arose after his name was temporarily not visible in the “Global Visionaries” list on the official event website.

Post Published By: Sujata Biswal
Updated : 17 February 2026, 1:28 PM IST

New Delhi: The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has confirmed on Tuesday that Bill Gates will attend the AI Impact Summit 2026 here in New Delhi and deliver his scheduled keynote address. The Foundation dismissed reports that he would skip the event.

Earlier reports suggested that Gates was not attending the summit as his name was not there in the "Global Visionaries" list.

AI Impact Summit: Backgrounder

The mega AI India Impact Summit kicked off on 17 February in New Delhi, with leading tech leaders, policymakers, and experts from around the world participating. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will later inaugurated the "AI India Expo" as part of this major event. The summit is being seen as a key platform to showcase India's technological capabilities and global leadership.

India Rapidly Progressing in Science and Technology

Welcoming delegates on social media, PM Modi said that the presence of people from across the world at this summit is a matter of pride for India and reflects the potential of the country's youth. He said that India is making rapid progress in science and technology and is making significant contributions to global development. According to him, the collective power of 1.4 billion Indians puts the country at the forefront of AI transformation.

Thanks to the 1.4 billion people of India, our nation stands at the forefront of the AI transformation. From digital public infrastructure to a vibrant StartUp ecosystem and cutting-edge research, our strides in AI reflect both ambition and responsibility.

Strength of Digital Infrastructure and Startup Ecosystem

The Prime Minister described digital public infrastructure, a strong startup ecosystem, and cutting-edge research as key strengths for India's AI progress. He emphasized that India's rapid progress in the field of AI is not just an ambition, but also a sign of global responsibility. The government aims to ensure that the benefits of AI technology reach every section of society and be used for inclusive development.

The event, which runs from February 16 to 20, is hosting a massive AI Expo, spanning approximately 70,000 square meters. Global tech companies, startups, educational institutions, research organizations, central ministries, state governments, and international partners are participating. Pavilions from 13 countries will showcase international collaboration and technological innovation, while over 300 exhibition pavilions and live demos will focus on the theme of "People, Planet, and Progress."

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 17 February 2026, 1:28 PM IST