India’s Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday apologized to attendees for overcrowding and logistical issues on the opening day of India AI Impact Summit 2026, billed as one of the world’s largest AI gatherings.
Attributing the chaos to heavy footfall, Vaishnaw said, “This is the biggest AI Summit in the world. The response was phenomenal. The energy is palpable. If any issue or inconvenience has come to exhibitors at AI Summit, we apologize for that,” he said at a press conference at New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam, where the summit is being held.
The government is open-minded and ready to make efforts to address feedback to it smooth and enjoyable, he added.
The apology came after a day of mounting complaints from exhibitors, journalists, and international visitors.
With the world’s growing interest in AI, the high turnout on the summit- spanning policymakers, tech leaders, researchers, startups and enthusiasts – led to confusion and delays. Attendees faced hours-long queues, no drinking water, and WiFi outages. Food stalls accepted only cash, frustrating international visitors.
The situation worsened around midday when founders and exhibitors were shocked at the abrupt evacuation by security personnel to sanitize and cordon off the area ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit.
According to media reports, startup NeoSapien alleged their AI wearable prototypes were stolen during the security sweep. Journalists with valid accreditation were left stranded outside. Sessions were so packed that people sat on stairs and floors, with security teams issuing contradictory instructions adding to the confusion.
More than 70,000 people especially youth attended the summit, according to Vaishnaw. The disruptions highlighted the logistical challenges of hosting mega-scale AI events as India positions itself as a global AI convening hub.
