Galgotias University asked to vacate AI Summit after row over Chinese robodog, power at stall cut off

THe authorities on wed asked Galgotias University (Greater Noida) to give up the AI wallop breast Expo for causation a “national embarrassment” by claiming a Chinese Unitree robodog as its own, people aware of the matter said.Professor Neha Singh of Galgotias University said that the institution has not received any such directive from the authorities. “We have not received any such direction. Galgotias University is a very responsible institution,” she said.But visuals from the Summit showed that power to the Galgotias stall has been cut off. In a statement late on Tuesday, Galgotias University said its faculty and students are deeply pained by the “propaganda campaign” against the university. It added that robotic programming is part of its endeavour to make students learn AI programming and develop and deploy real-world skills using globally available tools and resources, as developing AI talent is the need of the hour.The university said its vision is focused on student learning and innovation. “We provide students with access to modern technologies so they can gain practical experience and prepare for the future. Spreading negativity can harm the morale of students, who are working hard to innovate, learn, and build their skills using global technologies.”Galgotias robodog rowIn a viral clip, Professor Neha Singh of Galgotias University referred to the robodog and said, “You need to meet Orion. This has been developed by the Centre of Excellence at Galgotias University.”She also described the machine as being capable of surveillance and monitoring functions, and said it moves freely across the campus.Soon after, several viewers claimed that the robot dog was actually sourced from Chinese robotics firm Unitree.Galgotias issues clarificationAfter the online backlash, Galgotias University released a clarification on social media, stating that it never claimed to have manufactured the robot dog.“Galgotias has not built this robodog, nor have we claimed to do so,” the university said in its statement. “What we are building are minds that will soon design, engineer, and manufacture such technologies here in Bharat.”What is a Unitree robodog?Unitree Robotics’ “robodogs” are a range of advanced four-legged robots built to walk and move in ways similar to real animals while performing different tasks, from crossing obstacles to checking industrial sites and even entertainment use.Unitree is a robotics firm from China known for producing these machines at lower prices and making them easier to obtain than many rivals, such as Boston Dynamics’ Spot.