A State-level AI IMPACT Pre-Summit was held at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Technology (DBRAIT) on 9 January, serving as a precursor to the national AI IMPACT Summit scheduled in New Delhi from February 16 to 20, 2026. The programme drew participation from faculty members, students, researchers, and start-up representatives from DBRAIT, TGCE, JNRM, and other emerging enterprises across the islands.
The summit aimed to foster dialogue on the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence, applications of AI in diverse sectors, and collaborative innovations in Smart Island development, with a focus on Large Language Models (LLMs).
Dr. Aparup Das, Director & Scientist-G at ICMR, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing intelligence, human evolution, and responsible AI practices. Highlighting the ethical dimensions of AI deployment, Dr. Das underscored the importance of balancing technological innovation with societal safeguards.
Prof. (Dr.) Sanmukh Kaur, Principal of DBRAIT and Patron of the Summit, outlined the day’s agenda, stressing AI’s role in addressing local challenges and promoting research and collaboration between India and Japan.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Manu Vashishtha, Senior Lecturer at DBRAIT and Coordinator of the Pre-Summit. The technical sessions featured a blend of in-person and virtual presentations from leading AI experts.
The first session was conducted by Prof. (Dr.) Mansaf Alam from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, who provided insights into emerging AI technologies and their practical applications. The second session featured Shri Nitish Singh, Data Manager at BharatGen, IIT Bombay, who participated virtually to discuss AI-driven data management solutions.
In the afternoon, Shri Kailash S, Scientist-E at CDAC Chennai, and Prof. (Dr.) M. K. Dutta, Additional Pro-Vice Chancellor and Director of the Amity Centre for Artificial Intelligence at Amity University, delivered sessions on advanced AI applications, integration of LLMs in research, and ethical frameworks for AI implementation.
The Pre-Summit also facilitated knowledge sharing between students, start-ups, and established researchers, creating a collaborative environment for exploring AI solutions tailored to the unique challenges of island territories. Participants engaged in discussions on leveraging AI for education, healthcare, governance, and sustainable development.
Organizers emphasized that the Pre-Summit serves as a platform for skill development, research promotion, and ethical awareness in AI, preparing stakeholders to contribute meaningfully at the forthcoming national AI IMPACT Summit in New Delhi.
With active participation from academia, industry, and start-ups, the event marked a significant step in enhancing AI literacy and fostering responsible innovation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The sessions underscored the transformative potential of AI in local and national contexts while reinforcing ethical, safe, and inclusive AI deployment.
