The India Today Education Conclave 2026 brought together educators and experts to discuss emerging trends and challenges in education, particularly focusing on the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms. The event, held in New Delhi, featured notable figures including Sharmila Bakshi, Principal of Vasant Valley School, and Ashish Arora, Senior Vice President of Cambridge University Press & Assessment for South Asia. The discussions emphasized how AI technology can provide equal opportunities for children, especially in smaller cities where students often lag due to language barriers, particularly with English.

During a session, Ashish Arora highlighted AI's potential in transforming education, suggesting that it could significantly benefit students in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The challenge of integrating AI while maintaining essential skills like critical thinking was a focal point of the conversation. When questioned about whether AI would diminish children’s logical reasoning abilities, Principal Sharmila Bakshi articulated her perspective, indicating that the outcome would depend on how AI is employed rather than being an automatic detriment to cognitive skills.

The discourse at the conclave reflected a growing recognition of AI's dual role as both a tool for educational advancement and a potential disruptor of traditional learning methodologies. Educators are now tasked with finding a balance between leveraging AI for enhancement while ensuring that students continue to develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are paramount for their overall intellectual growth. The scaling of AI in education poses both opportunities and risks that stakeholders need to navigate thoughtfully for future success.