Bill Gates Withdraws From India AI Impact Summit Keynote To Keep Spotlight On Core Agenda

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced on Thursday that its co-chair Bill Gates will not participate in the ongoing India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Gates had been slated to deliver a keynote address on the event’s fourth day.

In an official statement, the foundation explained the decision: “After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit’s key priorities, Mr. Gates will not be delivering his keynote address.” It confirmed that the Gates Foundation will still be represented at the summit by Ankur Vora, President of the Africa and India Offices, who is scheduled to speak later today.

The statement further reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to its ongoing initiatives in India, noting: “The Gates Foundation remains fully committed to our work in India to advance our shared health and development goals.”

Gates, the Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist, was expected to address delegates on artificial intelligence’s role in global challenges, aligning with the foundation’s broader efforts in health, education, and technological innovation for developing regions.

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The last-minute withdrawal comes amid the summit’s high-profile discussions on AI’s potential to drive inclusive growth and address societal issues in India and beyond. The event has drawn significant attention from policymakers, industry leaders, and experts focused on ethical AI deployment and its applications in public welfare.

No additional details were provided regarding the specific reasons beyond the stated intent to maintain the summit’s primary emphasis. The Gates Foundation’s representation through Vora ensures continued engagement from the organisation at this key forum.