India’s push towards inclusive artificial intelligence took centre stage at the Governance Summit 2026, organised by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with the Indian School of Business (ISB). The summit focused on how AI can improve governance, public services, and inclusive growth across the country.
Held under the theme “Inclusive AI for Viksit Bharat”, the summit brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, academic experts, and civil society organisations. Discussions focused on the use of AI in healthcare, education, digital commerce, entrepreneurship, online safety, and public service delivery.
The event was organised by the Bharti Institute of Public Policy at ISB and included multiple panel discussions on AI’s role in improving healthcare affordability, supporting digital entrepreneurship, strengthening online safety for women and children, and expanding job opportunities.
A separate roundtable discussion explored how AI can be implemented for last-mile governance at the level of state governments and gram panchayats.
Delivering the keynote address, MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan highlighted the government’s focus on building an AI ecosystem that benefits all sections of society.
“Artificial intelligence presents India with a transformative opportunity to enhance productivity, improve governance, and expand access across sectors such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and financial inclusion,” Krishnan said.
He also stated that despite concerns around AI replacing cognitive jobs, India is well-positioned to use the technology as a tool for inclusive development and economic growth.
In his opening remarks, Ashwini Chhatre, Associate Professor and Executive Director of the Bharti Institute of Public Policy at ISB, stressed the importance of treating AI as a long-term national mission.
“AI must be viewed as a long-term national mission shaping the future of the next generation,” Chhatre said.
The summit also saw participation from organisations including Reliance Retail, Mastercard, Apollo Hospitals, IIT Madras, UNICEF India, and the Punjab Police, along with officials from several central and state government departments.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
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