Aizawl, February 5: The Regional AI Pre-Summit Conference 2026 was held in Aizawl on Wednesday, bringing together media professionals, academics, students, technology experts, and policymakers to discuss the rapidly expanding role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for media, communication, education, and society.
The conference was jointly organized by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Aizawl, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India. The event forms part of a series of regional engagements being conducted across the country ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026, which aims to promote awareness, dialogue, and responsible adoption of artificial intelligence.
Nampibou Marinmai, Director of Doordarshan Kendra (DDK) News and Regional Director (In-charge) of IIMC Aizawl, attended the programme as the chief guest. Addressing participants, he emphasized the transformative impact AI is having on various sectors, particularly media and communication. He expressed optimism that the upcoming India AI Impact Summit would provide a valuable platform for exploring innovative, ethical, and socially responsible uses of artificial intelligence.
Marinmai highlighted the importance of understanding both the opportunities and challenges associated with AI technologies. He stressed that increased public awareness and informed discussions are essential to ensuring that AI is used for the benefit of society while addressing concerns related to ethics, misinformation, privacy, and accountability.
Speaking about the growth of IIMC Aizawl, Marinmai noted that the institute has made significant progress since its establishment. He said many alumni of the institution are now working in media and communication organizations across the country. He recalled that IIMC Aizawl initially offered only diploma programmes but has since expanded its academic offerings to include master’s degree courses. Efforts are also underway to introduce doctoral-level studies in the future, further strengthening the institute’s academic profile.
The first day of the conference featured presentations by eight experts on the theme “AI & Media.” The speakers discussed how artificial intelligence is transforming journalism, content creation, digital communication, fact-checking, audience engagement, and media management. They also examined emerging trends and the future role of AI in shaping information ecosystems.
Students actively participated in interactive sessions, panel discussions, and question-and-answer programmes, allowing them to engage directly with experts and gain a deeper understanding of the technology. Participants explored both the practical applications of AI and the ethical considerations associated with its growing influence.
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The conference is scheduled to continue on Thursday with additional deliberations, workshops, and hands-on learning sessions designed to provide participants with practical exposure to AI tools and technologies. These sessions are expected to focus on real-world applications of artificial intelligence across different sectors.
Organizers stated that the pre-summit conference is part of a broader national initiative to prepare stakeholders for the India AI Impact Summit 2026 and encourage responsible innovation. By bringing together experts, educators, students, and professionals, the event aims to foster informed dialogue and support the ethical, inclusive, and beneficial adoption of artificial intelligence across India.
Participants described the conference as a valuable opportunity to understand one of the most influential technologies of the modern era and its potential to reshape industries, governance, education, and communication in the years ahead.
