The India Today AI Summit 2026 brought together leading global technology experts to examine whether the current excitement surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) constitutes a speculative bubble or is indicative of a long-term surge in productivity. With billions of dollars being invested in AI and data centers, questions are arising about whether investors will ultimately benefit from this influx of capital. During the summit, speakers expressed that while the potential for AI is tremendous, it is crucial to remain vigilant about the sustainability of these investments.

Jonathan Siddharth, the founder and CEO of Turing, highlighted the shift in job structures due to the rise of AI and employed a cautionary tone regarding the potential job losses if skill sets do not evolve alongside technological advancements. He emphasized the importance of a skills-based focus for youth in India to harness the opportunities that AI presents, rather than be adversely affected by its rise. According to him, India holds substantial potential for AI to alleviate crises rather than amplify them, positioning it as a space where opportunities outweigh risks.

The summit underscored the need for aligning investor returns with AI innovation, suggesting a paradigm shift from traditional human knowledge toward enhanced productivity through AI. While last year was characterized by testing AI technologies, this year needs to focus on applying AI to real-world scenarios, ultimately benefiting both the economy and workforce. As the discourse around AI continues to evolve, understanding its long-term trajectory remains vital for stakeholders across industries.