Long queues and confusion mar first day of India AI Summit

Published: 17 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

India’s much-anticipated AI Summit opened this week amid long queues, technical glitches, and widespread confusion, highlighting the challenges of managing one of the country’s largest gatherings focused on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Attendees, including policymakers, tech leaders, and international delegates, faced delays at registration and entry points, prompting criticism from participants and observers alike.

The summit, described as a landmark event in India’s push to establish itself as a global AI hub, attracted thousands of delegates from around the world. Organisers had promised an event showcasing breakthroughs in AI research, industrial applications, ethics, and regulatory frameworks, as well as opportunities for networking and collaboration. However, logistical issues on the first day disrupted the smooth flow of participants and delayed scheduled talks.

Delegates reported long waits at entry gates, difficulties in accessing conference materials, and confusion over session schedules. Some speakers had to postpone presentations due to technical problems, while attendees struggled to locate designated halls and networking spaces. Social media quickly filled with complaints and images of crowded registration areas, raising concerns about the planning and coordination of such a high-profile event.

Officials from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, responsible for overseeing the summit, acknowledged the issues and assured participants that measures were being implemented to resolve them. “We regret the inconvenience caused on the first day and are taking immediate steps to streamline registration, improve signage, and ensure that all sessions proceed on time,” a spokesperson said.

Despite the initial chaos, the summit featured several key presentations and panel discussions. Leading AI researchers highlighted innovations in machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics, while corporate leaders shared insights on the commercial applications of AI in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Policymakers outlined India’s strategy for AI regulation, emphasising responsible use, data privacy, and ethical frameworks designed to balance innovation with public protection.

International delegates expressed mixed reactions, praising the scale and ambition of the summit while noting that organisational shortcomings had detracted from the overall experience. Several participants suggested that future events would benefit from improved digital registration, clearer wayfinding, and better coordination between organisers and venue staff.

The summit has broader significance for India, which aims to become a global leader in artificial intelligence by fostering innovation, attracting investment, and developing skilled talent. Government initiatives, including public-private partnerships, funding for AI research, and talent development programmes, were highlighted during sessions as crucial components of India’s long-term strategy.

Organisers stressed that the first-day disruptions would not affect the substantive outcomes of the summit. Subsequent days are expected to run more smoothly, with fully functional technical support, pre-allocated session timings, and enhanced participant guidance. Efforts are being made to ensure that key networking opportunities, high-level discussions, and demonstrations of AI solutions can proceed without further delays.

The summit also serves as a platform for dialogue between Indian and international tech companies, research institutions, and regulators. Topics such as AI ethics, cross-border collaboration, talent mobility, and investment opportunities are central to discussions, and the event is expected to influence both domestic policy and global partnerships in the technology sector.

Despite the rocky start, organisers remain optimistic that the summit will achieve its objectives. By providing a forum for knowledge exchange, showcasing innovations, and promoting responsible AI adoption, the event aims to reinforce India’s position as a major player in the global AI landscape. Participants are encouraged to focus on the strategic discussions and opportunities presented, even as logistical issues are addressed.

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