Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, will not deliver his keynote address at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, the Gates Foundation confirmed hours before his scheduled speech at Bharat Mandapam on Thursday, February 19. A statement by Gates Foundation India said, "After careful consideration, and to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit's key priorities, Mr. Gates will not be delivering his keynote address." Ankur Vora, President of Africa and India Offices, will represent the foundation and speak at the summit later on Thursday. The foundation did not provide clarity on the exact reasons for the cancellation. Gates was listed as a keynote speaker with a 12-minute speaking slot at 11:50 am. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the summit at 9:40 am and visit the AI Impact Expos around 11 am. The summit began on February 16 and is set to conclude on February 20. It entered the Guinness World Records for the highest number of pledges taken by students for the responsible use of AI within 24 hours, with a total of 2,50,946 pledges received against a target of 5,000.