In response to overwhelming enthusiasm from exhibitors, innovators, and the general public, the Government has extended the India AI Impact Expo by one day, with the event now concluding on February 21. The announcement was made by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Secretary S. Krishnan during a media briefing in New Delhi.
Extended Hours and Schedule Changes
The Expo, currently underway at Bharat Mandapam, will feature extended operating hours on February 20 and 21, remaining open until 8 PM on both days to ensure a smoother and more comfortable experience for visitors. The decision comes as authorities seek to manage the significant footfall and accommodate the surge in public interest in artificial intelligence innovations.
However, Secretary Krishnan clarified that the Expo will remain closed to the general public on Thursday, February 19. The restricted access on this day is due to high-level security arrangements and access-controlled events, including the inaugural session scheduled to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"We don't want to cause any inconvenience to the public due to security restrictions and traffic arrangements on the opening day," Krishnan stated, explaining the rationale behind the schedule adjustment.
Global Participation and Significance
The India AI Impact Summit has drawn considerable international attention, with approximately 20 heads of state expected to attend the inaugural session, including French President Emmanuel Macron. The presence of such high-profile dignitaries necessitates enhanced security protocols, contributing to the decision to limit public access on February 19.
The Expo itself spans over 70,000 square metres across 10 thematic arenas, featuring more than 300 curated exhibition pavilions and live demonstrations. International collaboration is prominently showcased through 13 country pavilions representing nations including Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, and several others.
Record-Breaking Achievement
The extension announcement coincides with a significant milestone for the summit, which has entered the Guinness World Records for recording the highest number of student pledges for the responsible use of artificial intelligence within 24 hours. Guinness World Records adjudicator Pravin Patel announced that a total of 2,50,946 pledges were received, substantially surpassing the initial target of 5,000.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw credited the achievement to Prime Minister Modi's vision, noting that outreach efforts to schools and colleges played a crucial role in mobilising student participation.
Logistics and Visitor Information
Digital India Managing Director and CEO Akhil Kumar informed reporters that entry arrangements have been streamlined to manage the expected crowds. Throughout the event, Gate 4 will serve as the designated point for vehicle drop-offs, while Gate 10 will remain operational for visitors arriving by Metro between 8 AM and 4:30 PM.
Officials have cautioned that intermittent traffic restrictions may be experienced between 4 PM and 11 PM in and around the ITPO area during summit days due to security arrangements. Visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly and allow extra time for potential delays.
Showcasing India's AI Ambitions
The India AI Impact Summit represents a significant platform for demonstrating India's growing capabilities and ambitions in the artificial intelligence sector. With participation from policymakers, Fortune 500 executives, startup founders, and academicians, the event underscores the country's determination to shape global AI discourse while scaling domestic innovation.
Industry estimates peg the domestic AI market at over $17 billion by 2027, driven by enterprise digitisation, public digital infrastructure, and one of the world's largest AI talent pools. The Expo provides a valuable opportunity for startups, researchers, and industry leaders to showcase cutting-edge AI solutions and forge meaningful collaborations.
With the extension until February 21 and extended evening hours, organisers hope to provide all interested visitors with the opportunity to explore the exhibits and engage with the future of artificial intelligence in a comfortable and well-managed environment.
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