Key Takeaways
- The Bill Gates India AI Summit no-show took place during the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, where Gates was supposed to deliver a keynote address but withdrew last minute.
- The event faced organizational issues including overcrowding, long entry queues, and inconsistent internet connectivity.
- Security procedures and traffic restrictions further complicated access, causing delays for attendees trying to enter the venue.
- Other high-profile withdrawals included Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, while notable leaders like Modi, Macron, Pichai, and Altman still participated.
- Despite the disruptions, the summit continued with panel sessions and international participation.
The Bill Gates India AI Summit no-show became a major development at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. The event took place at Bharat Mandapam from 16 to 20 February 2026. Bill Gates had been scheduled to deliver a keynote address. He did not attend the summit. His withdrawal was confirmed shortly before his appearance.
Organisers did not provide detailed public explanations during the event. Reuters reported that the Gates Foundation stated the decision aimed to keep attention on summit priorities. Gates’ name had appeared in the official speaker lineup before being removed.
Organisational Issues at India AI Impact Summit 2026
The Bill Gates India AI Summit no-show occurred amid broader disruptions at the venue. Delegates reported overcrowding and long entry queues. Some participants waited for extended periods outside the venue.
Internet connectivity problems were reported inside the summit halls. Wi-Fi access was inconsistent. Digital payment systems experienced disruptions. Attendees cited limited signage and unclear directions within the venue.
Security procedures led to temporary clearing of certain exhibition sections. Some visitors were required to exit and re-enter areas. Traffic restrictions in central Delhi caused additional delays. Road closures for VIP movement affected access to the venue.
Videos shared online showed attendees walking long distances due to limited transport arrangements.
Speaker Withdrawals and Event Developments
The Bill Gates India AI Summit no-show was not the only high-profile absence. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang also withdrew from the summit. Other global technology leaders remained on the program.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the summit. French President Emmanuel Macron participated in summit engagements. Google CEO Sundar Pichai and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman were also involved in discussions.
An exhibitor from a university was asked to leave after presenting a commercially available Chinese robot as original innovation. The summit continued with panel sessions and international participation despite the reported issues.