New Delhi, February 18: Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Wednesday that educational institutions across the country will be equipped with AI technology-based tools. This initiative aims to provide students with practical knowledge of new technologies and enable them to develop their own solutions.

During a conversation with YourStory founder Shradha Sharma at the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, Vaishnaw elaborated on the opportunities, investments, and innovation prospects arising from this global conference.

The AI Impact Summit is considered one of the leading platforms for artificial intelligence worldwide, where extensive discussions are taking place on ethical AI, regulatory frameworks, and the role of advanced technologies that are transforming industries and public services.

The five-day summit sees participation from over 110 countries and 30 international organizations, including nearly 20 heads of state or government leaders and around 45 ministers. It is one of the largest events focused on AI governance and collaboration.

Discussing India’s progress, Vaishnaw stated, “The country is rapidly advancing across all five levels of AI. There is tremendous enthusiasm for this new technology among investors, venture capital firms, and the youth.”

He mentioned that several significant solutions have emerged during the summit. “I am pleased that India will present the next healthcare model and the next agricultural productivity model to the world, which will be our contribution on a global scale,” he added.

The minister revealed that the summit has attracted approximately $200 billion in investments in the infrastructure sector. Additionally, around $17 billion has been committed for deep-tech and application layer investments, with venture capital firms showing particular interest in this area.

He emphasized, “The world trusts India’s capability to develop AI-based solutions, create new models, and innovate at the population level.”

Addressing young developers and entrepreneurs, Vaishnaw stressed the importance of preparing the education system for the fifth industrial revolution. He noted that curriculum changes are being implemented in schools and colleges, which will take effect after the summit. “We will work on the next version of the AI mission, under which students will be provided with AI solutions and AI-based tools to learn and familiarize themselves with technology. AI is set to become widespread in the country,” he said.

Regarding startups, he assured that the government will fully support them, mentioning a commitment of $17 billion in funding from reliable venture capital firms.

Vaishnaw stated that India is now among the top three startup ecosystems in the world. Where there were only 400-500 startups a decade ago, today their number has exceeded 200,000. The world is recognizing the entrepreneurial energy of our people.

On the semiconductor sector, Vaishnaw indicated that around 50 deep-tech startups may emerge in the coming years, hinting at the imminent commercial launch of semiconductor production. “Very soon, one out of ten units will begin commercial production. An official announcement will be made soon,” he said.

At the AI Impact Summit, global leaders, policymakers, and technical experts are discussing the transformative potential of AI, which can accelerate economic growth, improve governance, and promote social progress.

The event aims to connect AI initiatives with India’s civilizational ethos of ‘Sarva Jana Hitaya, Sarva Jana Sukhaaya’ and advance the principle of ‘AI for Humanity.’

The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 is the fourth edition in this series, following previous conferences held in the United Kingdom in 2023, South Korea in 2024, and France in 2025.

This platform not only discusses the ethical, economic, and social impacts of AI but also strengthens partnerships in digital technology, business, culture, tourism, and maritime cooperation.

Deependra Singh Chundawat

Deependra Singh Chundawat is a Senior Sub-Editor at Readspecializing in a wide range of technology topics including mobile phones, applications, gaming, PCs, and wearables. Along with covering the latest tech news, he also creates engaging web stories. Passionate about emerging technologies, he stays up to date with the newest trends and enjoys reading and writing about the latest mobile launches and digital innovations.

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