Indian University Faces Backlash for Claiming Chinese Robodog as Own at AI Summit
An Indian university has sparked controversy at the AI Summit in Delhi after an official erroneously identified a Chinese-made robotic dog as their own creation.
– The Incident: During the summit, a professor from Galgotias University asserted in an interview with DD News that the robot, dubbed Orion, was developed at their Centre of Excellence. This statement quickly went viral.
– Identification of the Robot: Online users promptly revealed that the machine is actually the Go2 model manufactured by Unitree Robotics, a Chinese company. The Go2 is commercially available for around 200,000 rupees (approximately $2,200 or £1,600).
– University’s Response: In a bid to clarify the situation, the university released a statement on Wednesday, denying any claims of having constructed the robot. They described the backlash as a propaganda campaign, emphasizing their commitment to providing students with AI programming skills using globally available tools.
– Professor’s Clarification: Professor Neha Singh, who appeared in the viral video, later suggested that her words may have been misunderstood. It might be that I could not convey well what I wanted to say, or you could not understand well what I wanted to say, she explained to reporters.
– Public Reaction: Despite these clarifications, social media users accused the university of dishonesty. Following the uproar, the university reportedly faced pressure to vacate its stall at the summit, although faculty members claimed they hadn’t received any official notification regarding this.
– Disrupted Stall: Hours later, news agency Press Trust of India reported that the electricity supply to the university’s stall was cut off. A BBC reporter noted that the lights were turned off, with no university staff present.
– Summit Embarrassment: This incident is seen as a significant embarrassment for the summit organizers, especially since the video was initially shared on IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s official X account, which has since been deleted.
– Official Remarks: India’s IT Secretary, S Krishnan, commented that the controversy should not overshadow the contributions of other participants. He stressed the importance of adhering to a proper code of conduct at such significant events. What happened should not affect the way people present or exhibit their work at such events, he told reporters.
AI Summit Overview
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam, the India AI Impact Summit is a flagship event designed to position India as a global leader in artificial intelligence. Delegates from over 100 countries, including numerous heads of state and industry leaders like Sundar Pichai from Google, are in attendance. The five-day event includes policy discussions, startup showcases, and meetings focused on AI governance, infrastructure, and innovation.
– Initial Challenges: The summit’s opening day was marred by complaints of overcrowding, long queues, and confusion, leading organizers to extend exhibition hours and enhance entry management. Officials have since stated that arrangements have improved.
– Current Atmosphere: On the third day of the summit, BBC correspondent Vikas Pandey described the venue as absolutely buzzing, with thousands of attendees exploring the various stalls and engaging in lively discussions.
Officials remain hopeful that the summit will facilitate the widespread adoption of AI technologies across India, fostering innovation and collaboration in this rapidly evolving field.