NEW DELHI, Feb. 19, 2026 — The opening week of the India AI Impact Summit was overshadowed by organisational confusion after Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates pulled out of delivering a keynote address, intensifying scrutiny over logistical failures at the high-profile technology gathering. Gates, whose speech was scheduled for February 19, withdrew hours before taking the stage, with representatives saying the decision was intended to keep attention on the summit’s broader objectives. His absence, however, quickly became a focal point for criticism as delegates described cha

NEW DELHI, Feb. 19, 2026 — The opening week of the India AI Impact Summit was overshadowed by organisational confusion after Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates pulled out of delivering a keynote address, intensifying scrutiny over logistical failures at the high-profile technology gathering. Gates, whose speech was scheduled for February 19, withdrew hours before taking the stage, with representatives saying the decision was intended to keep attention on the summit’s broader objectives. His absence, however, quickly became a focal point for criticism as delegates described chaotic scenes throughout the venue.

Visitors crowd to enter a hall at a venue for India AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, India,

Participants reported long entry queues, overcrowded halls, and sudden programme changes that created confusion among international guests and local attendees. Transport challenges further aggravated frustrations, with limited shuttle services and security-related road closures forcing some delegates to walk long distances to reach the conference site.

The summit, which began earlier in the week, was designed to highlight India’s growing ambitions in artificial intelligence and position the country as a major global innovation hub. Yet the opening days were also marked by controversy over exhibition displays and the unexpected closure of certain halls, prompting organisers and government officials to issue apologies while promising swift corrective measures. Despite the setbacks, industry leaders emphasised that discussions on AI governance, innovation, and inclusive development remain critical outcomes of the event. Still, the disorganised start has sparked debate about the complexities of hosting large-scale technology summits amid intense global attention.

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