WEB DESK: India’s much-anticipated global showcase on artificial intelligence opened not with a flourish, but with frayed tempers and frozen screens.
The inaugural day of the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi pitched as India’s defining moment on the world’s AI stage was marked by network blackouts, logistical missteps, and tight security cordons that left international delegates bewildered and exhibitors scrambling to salvage the mood.
Months of meticulous planning had promised a seamless convergence of policymakers, technologists, and industry giants. Instead, patchy mobile connectivity crippled app-based registrations and digital demonstrations, while overcrowded corridors and delayed entry clearances slowed foot traffic to a crawl. Attendees reported long waits under heavy security arrangements ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to formally inaugurate the expo.
The heightened security presence, though expected for a prime ministerial appearance, compounded the disarray. Barricaded access points and repeated identity checks created bottlenecks that stretched for hours. Some foreign delegates and VIP speakers found themselves stuck outside exhibition halls, while others inside struggled with limited access to drinking water and seating.
For startups and mid-sized exhibitors, the technical glitches proved especially costly. Many booths relied on live demos and cloud connectivity to showcase AI-driven platforms from generative tools to enterprise automation systems. With networks faltering, some were forced to pivot to offline presentations or impromptu pitches.
Whether the summit ultimately becomes a milestone or a misstep may depend less on its troubled opening and more on how swiftly organizers can restore order and confidence before the world’s AI community logs off for good.
