Government-Organised AI Event Draws Attention
A recent Artificial Intelligence Summit held in Delhi has sparked discussion after controversy emerged around a demonstration involving robotic technology. The event was organised by the Indian government and brought together technology experts, researchers, startups, and academic institutions to showcase advancements in AI and innovation.
Among the participating institutions was a team from the AI Research Department of Galgotias University, which took part in the summit’s technology demonstrations.
Robo Dog Demonstration Raises Questions
The controversy began after it was reported that the team used Chinese-made robo dogs during their presentation at the summit. The robotic units were reportedly showcased as part of a technical demonstration highlighting AI-based mobility and automation capabilities.
Soon after visuals from the event circulated online, questions were raised regarding the use of Chinese-origin technology at a government-organised summit focused on innovation and national technological growth. Social media discussions quickly picked up momentum, with some users questioning whether domestically developed alternatives could have been used instead.
Mixed Reactions Online
While critics argued that such high-profile government platforms should prioritise indigenous technology, others defended the move, stating that research demonstrations often rely on globally available hardware platforms. According to this view, the core focus should remain on the AI software, algorithms, and research capabilities developed by Indian teams, regardless of the hardware’s country of origin.
So far, there has been no official controversy statement suggesting any policy violation. However, the episode has ignited a broader conversation about technological self-reliance, especially in sensitive sectors like artificial intelligence and robotics.
Bigger Debate on Tech Independence
The incident reflects a larger national discussion around “Make in India” and technological independence. As India positions itself as a global AI hub, questions about sourcing, collaboration, and domestic capability are likely to become increasingly prominent.
For now, the AI Summit continues to be discussed not just for its innovations, but also for the debate it has triggered around technology sourcing and strategic priorities.