China Robodog Row: Galgotias University Asked to Leave AI Summit Expo
Galgotias University Removed from India AI Impact Summit Over ‘Robodog’ Controversy: Galgotias University has been removed from the expo area of the India AI Impact Summit following a controversy over a robotic dog displayed at its stall. According to reports citing government sources, the university was asked to vacate its exhibition space after questions were raised about the origin of the robot.
The controversy erupted after a video from the summit went viral on social media. The robotic dog, showcased under the name “Orion,” was presented as part of the university’s Center of Excellence initiatives. However, online users quickly claimed that the machine was actually the Unitree Go2, a commercially available robotic dog manufactured by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The Unitree Go2 is widely sold online in India, typically priced between ₹2 lakh and ₹3 lakh. Critics alleged that imported technology was being presented as an indigenous innovation.
University’s Response
Responding to the allegations, Professor Dr. Aishwarya Srivastava from Galgotias University clarified that the institution never claimed to have invented the robotic dog.
“We never said that we created this Robodog. It was showcased to encourage children. We did not even hide the logo (Unitree Go2),” she said.
Regarding reports that the university had been asked to leave the summit, she stated that, as of now, they had not received any official communication confirming such action.
Orion or Unitree Go2?
At the summit, the robot was referred to as “Orion,” with claims that it was developed at the university’s Center of Excellence. However, social media users were quick to identify it as the Unitree Go2, accusing the institution of misrepresenting a foreign-made product as a domestic innovation.
The incident has sparked a broader debate on transparency in technology exhibitions and the importance of clearly distinguishing between original research, collaboration, and commercially sourced products.
As the matter continues to unfold, questions remain about accountability and verification standards at high-profile tech summits.
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