Month: February 2026

Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Sunday termed state Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal as a “worthless” person, accusing him of insulting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Bawankule suggested that Sapkal be admitted into a mental hospital, highlighting the presence of a “creature” in his mind.

This comes after Harshwardhan Sapkal’s earlier remarks on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Tipu Sultan sparked controversy.

“The way Harshvardhan Sapkal insulted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was done by a worthless person who is not worthy of anything. It seems like some creature has entered Harshvardhan Sapkal’s mind; he should be admitted to a mental hospital,” said Bawankule.

The Pune City Police registered a case against Harshwardhan Sapkal earlier in the day, following a complaint by Dhiraj Ghate, Pune BJP City President, alleging that Sapkal made objectionable remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and compared him to Tipu Sultan.

According to Dhiraj Ghate, BJP Pune City President, “the case has been registered at Parvati Police Station against Harshwardhan Sapkal for comparing Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan, he hurt the sentiments of Hindus who believe and consider Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as God. I don’t understand by making such a statement, which hurts the sentiments, what point Harshwardhan Sapkal wants to prove? This is why we are here at Parvati Police, who made the complaint against him, and a case has been registered against Harshwardhan Sapkal.”

Earlier on Saturday, speaking to reporters on the controversy surrounding a portrait of Tipu Sultan displayed in the office of Malegaon Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, which was opposed by the Shiv Sena and other groups, Sapkal said in Marathi that the Mysore ruler had followed Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals.

“The kind of bravery that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj possessed and the concept of ‘Swarajya’ (self-rule) that he introduced… much later, following in that very tradition and taking inspiration from his ideals, Tipu Sultan waged war against the British,” Sapkal said.”

In that sense, Tipu Sultan was a great warrior who displayed immense bravery and was a true son of India. He never allowed any poisonous or communal ideas to sway him. As a symbol of bravery, we should view Tipu Sultan as equivalent to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,” he added.

The case against Harshwardhan Sapkal is registered under sections 192, 196(1), 196(2), 352 and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The complaint alleges that Sapkal’s remarks hurt the sentiments of Hindus and followers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and had the potential to disturb communal harmony. (ANI)

In a statement issued by Hakkal, the media wing of the Baloch Liberation Army, BLA’s spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch claims the group has detained 17 members of Pakistani security forces during what it describes as the second phase of “Operation Herof,” releasing ten of them while keeping seven in custody and conditioning their fate on a potential prisoner exchange.

According to BLA, those freed were identified as ethnic Baloch connected to local policing structures, including Levies personnel. The group said they were let go after warnings, arguing that the move reflected what it termed ground realities and the broader interests of the Baloch population.

The remaining detainees are described by the BLA as members of regular units of the Pakistan Army. The armed group says it convened proceedings in what it calls a Baloch National Court, where the captives faced accusations ranging from involvement in actions against civilians to aiding enforced disappearances and taking part in what the organisation labels genocide.

Hakkal maintains that, during the hearing, the men were allowed to respond to the allegations, evidence was presented and statements were recorded before a guilty verdict was delivered.

Despite announcing the convictions, the BLA leadership says it has granted Islamabad seven days to formally indicate readiness for an exchange of prisoners of war. If such willingness is demonstrated within the timeframe, the group claims the seven detainees could be swapped for Baloch prisoners.

The statement further alleges that previous offers of exchanges were not pursued and accuses Pakistani authorities of failing to prioritise the lives of their personnel. It reiterates that implementation of the sentences would follow if no practical progress is made within a week. There has been no immediate official response from the military or the government, and independent verification of the claims remains difficult given limited access to conflict-hit regions. (ANI)

On the occassion of Mahashivaratri, Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu unveiled the teaser of ‘World of Nagabandham’, a visually expansive, dialogue-free spectacle that blends Indian mythology with historical action.

Released on Sunday, the teaser introduces audiences to a mystical world rooted in temple legends and sacred traditions.

Opening with sweeping, atmospheric shots of the Himalayas, the video transitions into haunting temple corridors, establishing a tone steeped in devotion and mystery. Mounted on a grand scale, the teaser relies purely on imagery, high-end visual effects and meticulous period detailing set in the 1750s.

A devotionally charged musical score by Junaid Kumar underlines the visual narrative, amplifying the spiritual undertones.

Striking imagery includes a majestic cobra coiled around a hidden treasure, a symbolic nod to the titular Nagabandham ritual. Large-scale battle sequences further hint at an action-driven storyline.

The #WorldOfNagabandham looks absolutely fascinating all the way…. Looking forward to experiencing it soon.. 🤗🤗🤗https://t.co/slsS18887c#Nagabandham #AbhishekNama@ViratKarrna @NabhaNatesh @Ishmenon #KishoreAnnapureddy @Nishithareddy85 @nikstudiosindia @AbhishekPicture

— Mahesh Babu (@urstrulyMahesh) February 15, 2026

Actor Virat Karrna is showcased in multiple intense avatars throughout the teaser, culminating in a ferocious transformation into a Lord Shiva-inspired look. The project also stars Nabha Natesh, Ishwarya Menon, Mahesh Manjrekar and Jagapathi Babu.

Directed by Abhishek Nama, the film is positioned as a Pan-India action drama. International action experts, including Kecha Khamphakdee, have been roped in to design the film’s combat sequences.

Presented by Lakshmi Ira and Devansh Nama, and produced by Kishore Annapureddy and Nishitha Annapureddy under Abhishek Pictures and NIK Studios, ‘World of Nagabandham’ is slated for a Summer 2026 release across Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam. (ANI)

Thousands of devotees on Sunday thronged the historic Bhootnath Temple in Kolkata to perform special rituals and offer prayers on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri. A huge crowd was witnessed by devotees at the temple as they offered their puja.

Bhootnath Temple is located near Nimtala Ghat in the capital city of West Bengal and is more than 300 years old. It is famous for its unique ritual, Bhasmarati, in which Aarti is performed using wood from burning pyres, a tradition that has continued since an ascetic near the cremation ground established the temple.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended Mahashivratri greetings to citizens, praying for their well-being and prosperity. In an ‘X’ post, the Prime Minister invoked the blessings of Lord Shiva, emphasising that the divine grace of Lord Shiva brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual strength to individuals and the nation.

“To all my family members across the country, countless best wishes on Mahashivratri. My prayer is that Adidev Mahadev always keeps His grace upon everyone. By His blessings, may all be blessed with well-being and may our Bharatvarsh sit enthroned at the peak of prosperity,” PM Modi wrote on ‘X’.

Mahashivratri, celebrated across India with great devotion, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and participate in night-long vigils to seek the deity’s blessings.

According to Hindu mythology, on the night of their wedding, Lord Shiva was escorted to Goddess Parvati’s house by a diverse group of Hindu gods, goddesses, animals, and demons. The Shiva-Shakti duo is considered the epitome of love, power, and togetherness. The festival marking their sacred union, Mahashivratri, is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also extended his greetings on Sunday on the occasion of Mahashivratri. Singh is scheduled to visit Coimbatore later today to participate in the Mahashivaratri festivities at the Isha Yoga Centre.

Taking to X, he wrote, “On the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, I extend my heartfelt greetings to everyone. Today, I shall be at Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore to attend the ‘Maha Shivratri’ celebrations. Looking forward to it.” (ANI)

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Sunday continued his attack on the Centre over the framework of India-US trade deal, stating that the country is witnessing a “betrayal of Indian farmers” in the name of the pact.

In an ‘X’ post, Gandhi asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the meaning of importing Distillers Dried Grains (DDG) crops from the US. He said this would mean Indian cattle would be fed distillers’ grain made from Genetically Modified (GM) American corn, and questioned whether it would effectively make Indian milk production dependent on the US agricultural industry.

“We are witnessing a betrayal of India’s farmers in the name of a US trade deal. I want to ask the Prime Minister a few simple questions: What exactly does importing DDG mean? Does it mean Indian cattle will be fed distillers grain made from GM American corn? Won’t this effectively make our milk production dependent on the American agricultural industry?,” said Rahul Gandhi.

The Congress MP further highlighted that if imports of US GM soybean oil are allowed, what would be its impact on Indian soybean farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and across the country? He also asked the meaning of the term “additional products”, stating that whether it is a signal that, over time, there will be pressure on India to open up pulses and other crop markets to US imports.

“If we allow the import of GM soybean oil, what will happen to our soybean farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and across the country? How will they survive yet another price shock? When you say “additional products”, what exactly is included? Is this a signal that over time there will be pressure to open up pulses and other crops to American imports?,” Rahul Gandhi said.

Gandhi also questioned whether India would face any pressure to soften its stance on GM crops, adding that Indian farmers deserve clear answers to these questions.

“What does removing “non-trade barriers” actually mean? Will India face pressure in the future to soften its stand on GM crops, weaken procurement, or reduce MSP and bonuses? Once this door is opened, how will we stop it from being opened wider every year? Will there be any safeguards, or will more and more crops be quietly placed on the table in every successive deal? Farmers deserve clear answers to these questions. This is not just about today. This is about the future — are we allowing another country to establish a long-term grip over India’s agricultural sector?,” said Rahul Gandhi on ‘X’.

Earlier on Saturday, Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government of misleading the country about tariff provisions in the India-US interim trade agreement, alleging that the deal would adversely affect India’s cotton farmers and textile exporters.

Gandhi said that while Indian garments face an 18 per cent tariff in the United States, Bangladesh is being given a zero per cent tariff benefit on garment exports on the condition that it imports US cotton.

Questioning the policy framework, he alleged that importing US cotton would harm domestic farmers, while not importing it would harm the textile industry. He further claimed that Bangladesh was signalling a possible reduction or halt in cotton imports from India, which, he said, could worsen the situation for Indian producers.

In a post on X, the Congress MP wrote, “18% Tariff vs 0% — Let me explain how the expert liar Prime Minister and his cabinet are spreading confusion on this issue. And how they are cheating India’s cotton farmers and textile exporters through the India-US trade deal. Bangladesh is being given 0% tariff benefit on garment exports to the US — the only condition is that they import American cotton. After the announcement of 18% tariff on Indian garments, when I raised the question in Parliament about the special concession being given to Bangladesh, the reply from a minister of the Modi government was: “If we also want the same benefit, we will have to import cotton from America.” Why was this fact hidden from the country till now?”

He said that the agreement would push millions towards unemployment and economic distress.

He also criticised the government’s handling of the negotiations, stating that a deal in the national interest should have safeguarded both cotton farmers and textile exporters.

“And what kind of policy is this? Is this really any kind of choice — or is it a trap designed to push us into a “well in front, ditch behind” situation? If we import American cotton, our own farmers will be ruined. If we don’t import it, our textile industry will lag behind and get destroyed. And now Bangladesh is also giving signals that it may reduce or even stop importing cotton from India,” the post read.

“The textile industry and cotton farming are the backbone of livelihood in India. Crores of people’s daily bread depend on these very sectors. Attacking these sectors means pushing millions of families into the pit of unemployment and economic crisis. A visionary government that thinks in the national interest would have negotiated a deal that protects and ensures the prosperity of both cotton farmers and textile exporters. But exactly the opposite has happened — Narendra “Surrender” Modi and his ministers have made an agreement that is likely to inflict deep damage on both sectors,” the post further read. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended Mahashivratri greetings to citizens, praying for their well-being and prosperity.

In an ‘X’ post, the Prime Minister invoked the blessings of Lord Shiva, emphasising that the divine grace of Lord Shiva brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual strength to individuals and the nation.

“To all my family members across the country, countless best wishes on Mahashivratri. My prayer is that Adidev Mahadev always keeps His grace upon everyone. By His blessings, may all be blessed with well-being and may our Bharatvarsh sit enthroned at the peak of prosperity,” PM Modi wrote on ‘X’.

Mahashivratri, celebrated across India with great devotion, marks the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees observe fasts, offer prayers, and participate in night-long vigils to seek the deity’s blessings.

According to Hindu mythology, on the night of their wedding, Lord Shiva was escorted to Goddess Parvati’s house by a diverse group of Hindu gods, goddesses, animals, and demons. The Shiva-Shakti duo is considered the epitome of love, power, and togetherness. The festival marking their sacred union, Mahashivratri, is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India.

Union Minister Nityanand Rai also prayed at the Pataleshwar Temple in Hajipur on the occasion of Mahashivaratri.

The devotees turned out in large numbers at the Sangam ghats on Sunday to participate in the holy Mahashivaratri snan of the Magh Mela.

The administration has implemented strict security measures, with Uttar Pradesh ATS mobile patrol squads actively monitoring the Prayagraj Magh Mela 2026 as pilgrims continue to arrive for the sacred dip.

Magh Mela officer Rishi Raj said that Mahashivaratri marks the last ‘snan parv’ of the Magh Mela, drawing a massive influx of devotees. He informed that around 10 lakh people have already taken the holy dip so far.

In addition to Prayagraj, devotees gathered in large numbers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Mahashivaratri. The temple premises witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with worshippers lining up since early morning to seek blessings.

Similarly, devotees flocked together at temples across the country. Aarti ceremonies were performed at the Mini Somnath Temple in Ahmedabad, the Aap Shambhu Mahadev Temple in Reasi, and the Nageshwarnath Temple in Ayodhya, where devotees offered prayers with deep reverence. (ANI)

On the occasion of Mahashivratri, devotees at Shree Baba Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Mandir in Jharkhand’s Deoghar prayed for India’s victory in the T20 World Cup 2026 match against Pakistan on Sunday.

India is set to face Pakistan on Sunday at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium in both teams’ third group-stage match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

On Mahashivratri, devotees at Deoghar’s Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar prayed for India to win today’s T20 World Cup match against Pakistan.

Devotee Randheer Singh prayed for an emphatic India win over Pakistan, saying, “Today I prayed to god Mahadev and Maa Parvati that Pakistan has to be buried and reduced to dust. We need to win at all costs. Their players also need to be reduced to dust. They are not playing in the spirit of the game. They are not playing in the spirit of the game. First, they said they would not play. When they saw they were incurring losses and facing pressure to play, the ICC slammed them, and only then did they agree to play.”

Another devotee, Shubham Kumar Jha, prayed for India to win the match, hoping India secures a big victory.

“Mahadev wants India to win. Today is Shivratri too, and the India-Pakistan match is being held today. Today is a very auspicious day, and watching the match is going to be fun. I prayed to God that Pakistan’s premium bowler Shaheen Afridi should be dropped and India wins by a good margin,” he said.

Another devotee prayed for India to score 200 runs, take all 10 wickets of Pakistan, and defeat Pakistan decisively.

“I wish to Mahadev that India scores 200 runs and defeats Pakistan, takes 10 out of 10 wickets and puts Pakistan to shame,” said the devotee while speaking to ANI.

The India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 clash is set to take place at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium on Sunday.

Both India and Pakistan have played two matches each in the tournament so far. Both have registered victories in those games. While India will enter the contest on the back of wins against the United States of America and Namibia, Pakistan has defeated the Netherlands and the USA.

While the Suryakumar Yadav-led India are placed on top of Group A standings with four points and the Net Run Rate (NRR) of +3.050, Pakistan are placed second with four points, too, and an NRR of +0.932. (ANI)

The newly elected government of Bangladesh, led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Tarique Rahman, is set to take oath coming Tuesday and the Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has invited leaders of 13 countries, including China, India, and Pakistan, to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the cabinet, Prothom Alo reported.

According to diplomatic sources, the list of invited countries so far includes China, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, India, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Malaysia, Brunei, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives, and Bhutan, reported Prothom Alo.

The swearing-in ceremony of the new cabinet will be held next Tuesday afternoon at the South Plaza of the National Parliament.

Earlier, BNP leader ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milan on Saturday expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be invited to the upcoming government swearing-in ceremony, while underscoring the party’s inclusive foreign policy vision “friends to all, malice to none”.

Addressing reporters in Dhaka, Milan remarked on the question of inviting South Asian leaders to the event, “I don’t know exactly what they’re doing, but hopefully they’ll invite everyone. I don’t know exactly, but he (PM Modi) should be invited. It’s general courtesy. The organisers will do it. I hope the whole world will be with us.”

Highlighting the party’s broader stance on international relations, he added, “Friends to all, malice to none.”

The BNP acknowledged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory message following the party’s sweeping victory in Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections earlier this month.

In a post on X, the BNP expressed appreciation for PM Modi’s message and recognition of its leadership. “Thank you very much, Honourable @narendramodi. We greatly appreciate your kind acknowledgment of Tarique Rahman’s leadership in securing the BNP’s decisive win in the national elections. This outcome reflects the trust and confidence the people of Bangladesh have placed in our leadership and in the democratic process.”

The party further underscored its commitment to democratic governance and national development. “Bangladesh remains committed to upholding democratic values, inclusivity, and progressive development for all its citizens.”

Highlighting the importance of bilateral ties, the BNP signalled its intent to work closely with New Delhi in the coming years. “We look forward to engaging constructively with India to advance our multifaceted relationship, guided by mutual respect, sensitivity to each other’s concerns, and a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in our region.”

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm wishes to Tarique Rahman after the BNP’s electoral triumph, marking a significant political shift in Bangladesh’s leadership landscape.

In his message posted on X, Modi congratulated Rahman on steering the party to a decisive mandate.

“I convey my warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals. @trahmanbnp @bdbnp78”

The 2026 Bangladeshi general election, held on 12 February 2026, marked a major political shift. It was the first election after the 2024 mass protests that ousted long-time leader Sheikh Hasina.

The BNP, led by Tarique Rahman, won a landslide majority in the 300-seat parliament, securing well over the 151 seats needed to form a government and positioning Rahman as prime minister-designate. The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami alliance emerged as the main opposition.

Voter turnout was around 59%, and a constitutional referendum on governance reforms passed. Results triggered reactions across Bangladesh’s political spectrum and internationally amid hopes for democratic renewal. (ANI)

As New Delhi transforms itself into the epicentre of the world’s most consequential conversation on artificial intelligence, an unprecedented roster of Presidents, Prime Ministers, Crown Princes, and the brightest minds from Silicon Valley and beyond will converse at the Bharat Mandapam as India is set to host the AI Impact Summit 2026 next week.

From February 16 to 20, the Impact Summit, the first international AI summit hosted in the Global South, showcases New Delhi’s ambition: to shape an AI future that is inclusive, responsible, and impactful.

French President Emmanuel Macron, making his fourth visit to India, will arrive with a clear focus on deepening AI cooperation and emerging technologies.

His presence underscores the strength of the India-France strategic partnership, culminating in the joint inauguration of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026 in Mumbai.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will visit from February 18 to 22, leading a large business delegation of up to 200 executives eager to forge new ties in this burgeoning market. Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, fresh from his own AI engagements in Paris last year, will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi and highlight Finland’s prowess in ethical AI innovation, accompanied by executives from Nokia and two dozen other cutting-edge firms.

Slovakia’s President Peter Pellegrini is set to meet PM Modi and other leaders, emphasising technological sovereignty and responsible AI as strategic priorities for his nation.

The United Arab Emirates will be represented by Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who will lead a delegation on behalf of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

And in a powerful nod to multilateralism, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will join the fray, alongside ministerial delegations from over 45 countries.

The full list of heads of state and government is dazzling: Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Bolivia’s Vice President Edmand Lara Montano, Croatia’s Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, Estonia’s President Alar Karis, Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Liechtenstein’s Hereditary Prince Alois, Mauritius’s Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic, Spain’s President Pedro Sanchez, Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Seychelles’ Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Switzerland’s President Guy Parmelin, and the Netherlands’ Prime Minister Dick Schoof.

Beyond the world leaders, the summit’s real energy is expected to come from the tech industry’s heavyweights, who see India not just as a participant but as a pivotal player in AI’s next chapter.

Leading the charge from the United States is a powerhouse delegation organised by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and the US-India Business Council (USIBC)–the largest American industry presence at such an event to date.

The delegation from the USISPF will be co-led by Adobe Chairman and CEO Shantanu Narayen and FedEx President and CEO Raj Subramaniam, and will include more than 120 senior executives from more than 100 companies, including luminaries such as Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith.

White House adviser Michael Kratsios, Assistant to US President Donald Trump and Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy, will lead the official US government delegation, joined by senior officials from the US Department of State, Commerce, and other agencies.

“Looking forward to leading the US delegation to the AI Impact Summit in India this month,” Kratsios posted on X, adding, “America is setting the gold standard for AI innovation, and we want to share it with our global partners.”

Vishal Sikka, founder and CEO of Vianai Systems and a vocal champion of India’s AI ecosystem, captured the excitement perfectly: “India is so important to AI that this is really going to be, I think, the best AI conference that has ever happened in the last several years.”

He pointed to India’s unique blend of talent, infrastructure, and societal challenges as the perfect crucible for tackling AI’s biggest questions–from energy demands to ethics and safety.

John Chambers, Chairman of USISPF, echoed the optimism: “As Prime Minister Modi said best, AI stands for America and India.”

The delegation’s mission is clear: to accelerate collaboration across AI infrastructure, quantum computing, critical minerals, and trusted technologies, under the banner of “Together, we can lead the future of AI.”

Even former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will lend his voice, addressing a curtain-raiser event organised by Carnegie India titled “AI for All: Reimagining Global Cooperation”.

Iran’s participation, led by Minister of Communications and Information Technology Sattar Hashemi, signals deepening tech bonds, while a high-level Israeli delegation–headed by Ilan Fluss, policy coordinator at Israel’s Foreign Ministry–will spotlight bilateral innovation in AI for climate resilience and ethical governance.

“India and Israel have a joint responsibility to lead with innovation guided by ethics,” Fluss declared.

At the core is India’s audacious vision for sovereign AI.

Under the IndiaAI Mission, the country is unveiling 12 indigenous foundation models developed by homegrown startups and consortia, trained on vast Indian datasets and tailored to the nation’s 22 official languages.

From Sarvam AI’s multilingual reasoning engines to BharatGen’s sector-specific tools from IIT Bombay, Gnani AI’s voice-first breakthroughs, and Fractal Analytics’ pioneering reasoning models–these innovations promise to democratise AI for everything from agriculture to healthcare and governance.

The summit will showcase them alongside the AI Impact Expo, a sprawling 70,000-square-metre showcase of real-world applications, from precision farming to accessible education.

The agenda is structured around three guiding “sutras”–People, Planet, and Progress–with seven thematic “chakras” delving into skilling, sustainable AI, trusted governance, and economic empowerment.

Seven working groups, co-chaired by voices from the Global North and South, will deliver actionable proposals: shared compute resources, AI commons for the public good, and compendia of use cases that could transform lives in the developing world.

For India, a nation projected to see its AI market surge past USD 17 billion by 2027, this summit is more than a diplomatic triumph–it’s a declaration of intent.

With 800 million internet users, a booming startup scene, and world-class digital public infrastructure, India is positioning itself as the bridge between innovation and impact.

As PM Modi himself has said, “We are at the dawn of the AI age that will shape the course of humanity. Some people worry about machines becoming superior in intelligence to humans. But no one holds the key to our collective future and shared destiny other than us humans.”

As the world’s eyes turn to New Delhi, the India AI Impact Summit 2026 isn’t just about technology–it’s about rewriting the rules of the AI era.

In a world racing toward intelligent machines, India is ensuring that the future remains equitable, ethical, and human. (ANI)