Gandhinagar: The Fashion Technology Department of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Gandhinagar, organised the India AI Impact Summit 2026 – Pre-Summit Event on Friday, bringing together policymakers, industry experts, academicians, and innovators to discuss the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in fashion, sustainability, and social development.
Held at the Gandhinagar campus, the pre-summit focused on the theme “Responsible AI for Fashion and Social Good”, highlighting how emerging technologies are reshaping the fashion ecosystem while raising important ethical and societal considerations.
The event was led by Dr. Sameer Sood, Director, NIFT Gandhinagar, reinforcing the institute’s focus on driving conversations at the intersection of design, technology, and social impact. In his address, Dr. Sood noted that Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but a transformative force across industries. He explained how AI is influencing the fashion sector—from trend and colour forecasting to improving efficiency across shop floors and supply chains. He also underlined AI’s growing role in advancing sustainability by optimising resources and reducing material waste, making the fashion industry more responsible and future-ready.
The programme was attended by Chief Guest Ms. P. Bharathi, IAS, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat, who highlighted the broader national vision behind the India AI Impact Summit. She stated that the Gandhinagar event is part of the pre-summit engagements leading to the main summit scheduled in New Delhi from February 16 to 20, 2026. She added that India hosting the summit again reflects the country’s rising global leadership in emerging technologies.
Ms. Bharathi emphasised that AI is becoming a key driver of economic growth and national development. Alongside AI, technologies such as blockchain and quantum computing are shaping the future across sectors. She stressed the importance of responsible and ethical adoption of AI, particularly in areas like fashion innovation and social impact.
The event featured expert insights from Mr. Madhav Andakat, Head – AI & Digital Transformation, Gateway Group Company; Mr. Parth Devariya, Founder, GFuture Tech Pvt. Ltd.; and Dr. Manisha Padala, Assistant Professor, IIT Gandhinagar.
Panel discussions focused on responsible use of generative AI, ensuring fairness and transparency in AI systems, and leveraging technology to drive inclusion and social empowerment. Speakers shared practical examples of how AI can be deployed responsibly to deliver innovation while minimising bias and unintended consequences.
The event also saw active participation from media, helping amplify dialogue around responsible AI and showcasing India’s growing momentum in technology-driven, socially responsible innovation.