AI Summit – Tharoor Commends Global Turnout at Delhi Meet
AI Summit – Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has expressed appreciation for the ongoing India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, noting that the event has drawn substantial international participation and has progressed positively during its initial sessions.
Strong Global Participation Highlighted
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Tharoor said he had received encouraging feedback about the summit’s early proceedings. Although he has yet to attend the sessions personally, he is scheduled to speak at the gathering soon. According to him, the first two days have been largely successful.
He acknowledged that large-scale international events often encounter minor organisational issues. Referring indirectly to the recent controversy surrounding a Chinese-manufactured robot displayed at a university exhibition stall, Tharoor remarked that “some glitches” are not unusual at events of this magnitude.
What stood out most, he said, was the presence of several heads of state, prime ministers and senior global policymakers. Their participation, he added, reflects a shared commitment to shaping a more coordinated and responsible approach to artificial intelligence development. Tharoor noted that discussions appear to be focused not only on technological advancement but also on its broader social impact.
Opposition Voices Raise Concerns
Tharoor’s comments come amid criticism from within his own party. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, had earlier described the summit as poorly managed and alleged that products from China were being showcased. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other senior leaders have also questioned the organisation of the event, suggesting that lapses may have caused reputational damage.
While Tharoor did not directly respond to his party colleagues’ remarks, his observations indicated a more measured assessment of the summit’s conduct and outcomes so far.
Remarks on Rafale Deal and Defence Production
During the same interaction, Tharoor was asked about comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding India’s procurement of Rafale fighter jets and the industrial partnership linked to the agreement.
Tharoor pointed out that certain components of the Rafale aircraft are being manufactured in India, calling this an important dimension of the defence arrangement. According to him, the agreement is not solely about strengthening military capability but also about expanding domestic manufacturing and promoting self-reliance in the defence sector.
He emphasised that India’s defence policy is primarily deterrent in nature. “Defence is important for India not because we want to go to war, but because we do not want others to think we are vulnerable,” he said, adding that he supports efforts aimed at reinforcing national security through indigenous production.
Criticism of Upcoming Film
Tharoor also addressed questions about the forthcoming film Kerala Story 2. He reiterated his earlier criticism of the first instalment, describing it as divisive and based on exaggerated claims. According to him, assertions that thousands of individuals had been converted were not supported by verified figures.
He argued that isolated incidents should not be amplified into sweeping narratives. Referring to older films such as Amar Akbar Antony, he noted that cinema once celebrated themes of unity and entertainment rather than controversy.
Broader Context of the Summit
The India AI Impact Summit has been positioned as a major international platform to discuss ethical AI, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border collaboration. The event has drawn policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and academic institutions from multiple countries.
While political debate continues over aspects of its organisation, the summit underscores India’s ambition to play a significant role in global artificial intelligence governance. As discussions progress, attention is likely to remain focused on how India balances technological growth with regulatory oversight and international partnerships.