IndiaAI Impact Summit 2026: Zepto to run exclusive dark store, Swiggy to manage food deliveries

New Delhi is preparing to host a significant international event, the AI Impact Summit 2026, at Bharat Mandapam from February 16 to 20. Organizers are establishing a robust logistics framework to accommodate an anticipated influx of delegates, startups, and global leaders, with registrations already nearing 250,000, reflecting a remarkable interest in AI collaboration and policy discussions. At the summit, quick-commerce platform Zepto will manage an exclusive dark store at the venue to swiftly meet supply demands throughout the five-day event. Meanwhile, Swiggy will facilitate food distribution by directly connecting with food kiosks, ensuring seamless meal service for thousands of attendees. The event is expected to attract around 20 heads of state, 40 ministers, and representatives from nearly 100 countries, including France, the UAE, Brazil, Switzerland, and Spain. Additionally, about 100 CEOs and over 500 AI experts will participate, alongside 450 startup pods and 400 company stalls, transforming the venue into a vibrant center for innovation, policy discussions, and industry networking. To streamline entry, the summit will utilize a DigiYatra-based system, allowing registered attendees to access the venue with QR-enabled digital credentials. International delegates will have the convenience of local payments via a UPI-linked facility that connects to their global credit cards, with support available at Indira Gandhi International Airport. To accommodate the expected high digital engagement, telecom providers have been instructed to enhance network capacity around the venue. Additionally, Apollo Hospitals will ensure medical assistance by deploying healthcare professionals and emergency facilities on-site to address any contingencies during this high-traffic event. Emphasizing sustainability, the summit aims to be a zero-waste conference by reusing materials from previous events and implementing controlled logistics to minimize environmental impact. This initiative aligns with the broader discussions anticipated around sustainable AI infrastructure. Beyond keynote addresses and exhibitions, the summit will also feature numerous bilateral meetings, reinforcing its significance as a platform for diplomatic and economic dialogue in shaping global AI partnerships.