Instituted in 2016, the annual forum has grown into the country's leading platform for discussions on international affairs, drawing prominent global leaders, policymakers and strategic experts.

Organised by the Observer Research Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the three-day event brings together heads of state, ministers, academics, industry leaders, think tanks and media representatives to address critical global challenges.

Over the years, the Dialogue has featured extensive deliberations on shifting geopolitical dynamics, climate change, technological transformation, economic resilience and the future of global governance frameworks.

The 2026 edition revolves around the theme Samskara - Assertion, Accommodation, Advancement, reflecting contemporary global realities. According to organisers, the theme underscores the idea of civilisations asserting their identity, accommodating differences and advancing through refinement.

The forum aims to facilitate debate and cooperation on issues shaping the evolving international order.

Several foreign dignitaries are expected to attend. The MEA confirmed on Wednesday that multiple high-level delegations from across the world will participate.

Bhutan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lyonpo Dina Nath Dhungyel, arrived in India on Wednesday for the event. Finnish President Alexander Stubb also reached India earlier in the day on a state visit and will attend the Dialogue as Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker.

The United States delegation will be led by Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. Other notable participants include Seychelles' Minister for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Barry Faure, Mauritius' Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade Dhananjay Ramful, and Sri Lanka's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath. All three ministers are scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on Thursday.