Bill Gates will not be delivering his scheduled keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, according to an official statement released by the Gates Foundation.
The foundation said that after careful consideration, and in order to ensure that the focus remains aligned with the summit’s key priorities, Gates will not address the gathering. The development comes as the event brings together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and technology experts to discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence across sectors.
— Gates Foundation India (@BMGFIndia) February 19, 2026
Gates Foundation to Be Represented by Ankur Vora
Despite Gates’ absence, the foundation confirmed it will continue to actively participate in the summit. Ankur Vora, President of the foundation’s Africa and India Offices, will represent the organisation and speak later today at the event.
The statement emphasised that the Gates Foundation remains fully committed to its work in India, particularly in advancing shared health and development goals. India has been a major focus area for the foundation’s initiatives in public health, digital innovation, agriculture and financial inclusion.