Experts Discuss Applications of AI, Machine Learning and Intelligent Computing in Healthcare at ICAIHC-2026
Raipur : The fourth edition of the two-day International Conference on Ambient Intelligence in Healthcare (ICAIHC-2026) began on Friday at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Raipur, bringing together researchers, academicians, technology experts and students to discuss emerging innovations in artificial intelligence, machine learning and intelligent computing for healthcare.
Organised by the Department of Computer Applications, NIT Raipur, the conference is focused on exploring the potential of ambient intelligence and other advanced technologies to make healthcare more accessible, affordable and responsive to the needs of Indian communities.
The inaugural ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and the national anthem. NIT Raipur Director (In-charge) Dr Sameer Bajpai, Chief Guest and Executive Director-cum-CEO of AIIMS Raipur Lieutenant General (Dr) Ashok Jindal, Special Guest and Director of IIIT-Naya Raipur Dr Om Prakash Vyas, CEO and Chairman of Atheropoint, California, USA, Dr Jasjit S. Suri, along with NIT Raipur faculty members Dr Mithilesh Atulkar and Dr Tripti Swarnkar, attended the event.
The conference is being coordinated by Dr Tripti Swarnkar, Dr Mithilesh Atulkar, Dr Dibakar Saha and Dr Naeem Ahmad. Dr Swarnkar welcomed the guests, faculty members and students and outlined the objectives and programme of the conference.
Providing an overview of ICAIHC-2026, Dr Atulkar said that more than 1,200 research papers had been received for the conference. He also briefed participants about the review process, keynote speakers and special technical sessions scheduled during the event.
Dr Om Prakash Vyas traced the evolution of artificial intelligence from neural networks, machine learning and deep learning to large language models and agentic AI. He highlighted potential healthcare applications, including continuous monitoring of individuals, early identification of possible health problems and assistance in scheduling medical consultations when required.
Dr Jasjit S. Suri discussed the rapid development of artificial intelligence and the growing role of ambient technologies in improving human well-being. Referring to internal and external factors affecting women’s health, he highlighted the potential of these technologies to make healthcare more effective and better aligned with individual needs.
Addressing the challenges surrounding artificial intelligence, Dr Sameer Bajpai pointed to the high cost of advanced technologies and limited access among economically weaker sections as key concerns. He stressed the need to make healthcare technologies affordable and accessible so that their benefits can reach remote areas and underserved communities.
He particularly highlighted the need to expand technological access in remote regions such as Bastar in Chhattisgarh, where improved access to technology could help bridge gaps in healthcare delivery.
Chief Guest Lieutenant General (Dr) Ashok Jindal appreciated the growing technological awareness among the younger generation and emphasised stronger collaboration between medical and engineering institutions. He called for greater sharing of clinical data with Indian engineering institutions, particularly NIT Raipur, to support the development of sensitive, reliable and affordable medical devices tailored to India’s healthcare requirements.
He said technologies developed under the Make in India initiative could help expand access to advanced healthcare facilities among economically weaker sections. At the same time, he emphasised that the human and personalised role of doctors must remain an integral part of healthcare delivery even as technology becomes increasingly embedded in medical services.
The conference provides a platform for researchers and professionals to exchange ideas on how artificial intelligence, machine learning and ambient intelligence can be translated into practical healthcare solutions suited to India’s diverse needs.
