• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Galgotia Row:  The controversy erupted when Galgotias University showcased the "Unitree Go2," a Chinese-manufactured robot, under the localized name "Orion" at the India AI Impact Summit. This presentation led many to believe the technology was indigenously developed by the institution’s research teams.

Compounding the scrutiny, Prof. Neha Singh stated that "Orion" was a product of the university’s specialized Centre of Excellence. She further emphasized that this innovation was supported by a massive investment of Rs 350 crore (approximately $39M USD) dedicated specifically to AI development.

Statement From Galgotias University After RoboDog Row Erupts:

Galgotias University stated in its press release that its mission is to keep students ahead in emerging technologies, preparing them not only for today but for the future. By bringing cutting-edge innovations from global hubs such as the United States, China, and Singapore, the university believes exposure builds vision and transforms learners into creators.

The recently acquired Robodog from Unitree is part of this initiative. It is not just a display machine but a practical learning tool. Students are experimenting with it, understanding its design, and exploring its technological potential.

The university clarified it has not built the Robodog. Instead, it aims to build capable minds that will design and manufacture such advanced technologies in India for the world.

galgotiaPR

Misinterpretation Sparks Clarification from Professor:

Prof. Neha Singh from Galgotias University issued a clarification on February 18 following the recent press release. She stated that a misinterpretation had caused the issue to escalate online. According to her, either she could not clearly convey what she intended to say, or her statement was not properly understood.

She clarified that she is a faculty member in Communications at the School of Management, not in Artificial Intelligence. She further added that the media may have interpreted the government’s remarks differently while the university was present at the expo. Emphasizing the institution’s position, she said the university stands tall and that the robot was brought solely for projection purposes.

 

After Robot Dog Row, New Storm Over ‘Drone Soccer’: 

Even as controversy over a robot dog showcased at a recent AI exhibition refuses to die down, Galgotias University has found itself at the centre of a fresh storm—this time over its much-publicised “drone soccer” demonstration.

Critics on Tuesday alleged that the university’s claim of building India’s first drone soccer system was misleading, asserting that the device on display was actually a Korean product, identified as Striker V3 ARF. Sharing video clips on social media, they said the spherical drone system appeared identical to commercially available overseas models, accusing the institution of projecting imported technology as home-grown.

 

In response to allegations and criticism, Galgotias University issued a clarification on social media. It stated that the faculty and students were hurt by what they described as a ‘propaganda campaign’.

In its latest statement, the university blamed its representative at the summit, Professor Neha Singh, for the confusion. The university stated that the representative was "misinformed" and had provided false information in her "desire to be on camera." It further stated that Neha had no right to speak to the press.

 

 

Did Pavilion Exit end Controversy?

Following an uproar over the display of a Chinese-made robot dog, officials from Galgotias University vacated their pavilion at the AI Summit in Delhi. Soon after, the university's exhibition space was completely closed.

This action, taken following government directives asking the institution to leave the venue, appears to have ended the controversy!


Also In News