Indian University Faces Backlash for Claiming Chinese Robodog at AI Summit

An Indian university has sparked controversy at the AI Summit in Delhi after an official claimed that a Chinese-made robotic dog was developed by the institution.

The incident surfaced when a professor from Galgotias University told state-run broadcaster DD News that the robot named “Orion” was “developed” at their Centre of Excellence. A video of her remarks quickly went viral.

Online users later identified the machine as the Go2 model, produced by Chinese firm Unitree Robotics and commercially available for around 200,000 rupees ($2,200; £1,600).

In response, the university denied claiming ownership of the robot, describing the backlash as a “propaganda campaign.”

“We would like to clearly state that the robotic programming is part of our endeavour to make students learn AI programming and develop and deploy real world skills using globally available tools and resources, given developing AI talent is need of the hour,” the statement read.

Neha Singh, the professor seen in the video, clarified to reporters, “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.”

Despite the clarification, social media users accused the university of dishonesty. Reports indicated that the institution was asked to vacate its stall at the summit. Faculty members said they had received no official communication, but hours later Press Trust of India reported that electricity to the stall was cut off.

The incident embarrassed summit organizers, especially after the video had been shared on IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s official X account, though the post was later deleted. India’s IT Secretary S Krishnan said the controversy should not “overshadow” the work put in by other participants at the summit.

“What happened should not affect the way people present or exhibit their work at such events. The idea is not to use an opportunity like this to become something else or create unnecessary noise,” he added. “It is essential that a proper code of conduct is followed. There are other countries and other participants involved as well.”

The India AI Impact Summit, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam on Monday, aims to position India as a global AI hub. Delegates from more than 100 countries, including several heads of government and industry leaders like Sundar Pichai of Google, are attending the five-day event, which includes policy discussions, startup showcases, and closed-door meetings on AI governance, infrastructure, and innovation.

Despite the opening day being overshadowed by overcrowding and long queues, organizers extended exhibition hours and improved entry management. Vikas Pandey reported that the venue was “absolutely buzzing” on the third day, with thousands visiting stalls and engaging with AI technologies. Officials hope the summit and its discussions will accelerate AI adoption across India.