International AI Summit in New Delhi

The upcoming AI Summit in New Delhi signifies a significant global shift in the perception of Artificial Intelligence (AI), with a focus on its societal impact. It is notable for being the first global AI summit in the Global South.

Excitement and Potential of AI

• AI is transforming various facets of life, such as living, learning, and working.
• Apart from Big Tech's focus on Large Language Models (LLMs), governments and non-profits are leveraging AI to enhance public program delivery.

Pathways for AI to Improve Social Outcomes

• AI can enhance program targeting and provide customized, actionable insights.
• It can boost frontline worker productivity and organizational efficiency.
• AI helps in reducing decision-making bias and mobilizing government resources.

India's Role and Lessons in AI

• India is well-positioned as a global AI powerhouse due to its digital infrastructure and technological talent.
• India's use of AI for underserved communities offers valuable insights, emphasizing rigorous testing of AI tools.
• India aims to be the "AI application and evaluation capital" by understanding what works and why.

Examples of AI in Action

• In Bihar, AI-powered flood forecasts are evaluated to improve trust and precautionary actions.
• Tamil Nadu uses AI to identify high-risk heart disease individuals.
• In Karnataka, fingerprint scanners for doctors were not scaled due to practical challenges.

Human Skills and AI

• Pairing AI with human skills enhances its potential, as seen in Rajasthan's personalized instruction software.
• Teacher productivity and learning outcomes improved when supervised by a facilitator.

Importance of Context and Evidence

• Technology must align with institutional, behavioral, and field realities.
• Investing in evidence-based AI helps maximize social good and minimize unintended consequences.

India AI Impact Summit 2026

• The summit will highlight India's tech workforce, civil society, and digital public infrastructure.
• India emphasizes AI's measurable impact on improving lives, aiming to become a global leader in AI impact.

Contributors: Dhaliwal, Global Executive Director, J-PAL at MIT; Mukerji, Executive Director, J-PAL South Asia at IFMR.