India asks university to exit AI summit after robot’s origin questioned
By Axel Miller | 18 Feb 2026
Summary
India’s flagship artificial intelligence summit was briefly overshadowed by controversy after authorities asked a university exhibitor to vacate its stall when a robotic dog showcased as part of a demonstration was identified online as a commercially available foreign-made model. The episode sparked debate about transparency and standards at high-profile technology events.
NEW DELHI — Feb. 18, 2026
India’s flagship artificial intelligence gathering has been hit by a brief controversy after authorities asked Galgotias University to vacate its stall at the India AI Impact Summit, following questions over the origin of a robotic dog displayed during a demonstration, according to government and event sources.
The incident quickly gained traction on social media and triggered a wider discussion around research transparency and credibility within the country’s rapidly expanding AI ecosystem.
Robot identified as commercially available model
During a television segment, a university representative referred to the robotic dog — named “Orion” in the demonstration — as part of its Centre of Excellence showcase.
Soon after, online observers pointed out similarities between the machine and the Unitree Go2, a quadruped robot manufactured by Chinese robotics firm Unitree and widely used globally for education and research.
The identification prompted criticism online and calls for clearer disclosure standards at public technology exhibitions.
Government response and clarifications
India’s IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw initially shared a video clip of the demonstration but later removed the post as the debate intensified.
University representatives and the staff member involved later clarified that the robot was not developed in-house and said there was no intention to misrepresent its origin.
Officials at the venue declined to comment in detail, and the university said it had not received formal written notice regarding its removal, even as media reports circulated.
Spotlight on India’s AI ambitions
The episode unfolded during the high-profile India AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, which has drawn global technology leaders, policymakers, and investors.
Speakers and participants include senior government officials and executives from major technology companies, underscoring India’s push to position itself as a key AI hub for emerging markets.
Despite the controversy, the event has been marked by significant investment announcements and partnerships across infrastructure, cloud computing, and AI applications.
Political reactions and operational issues
Opposition leaders said the incident highlighted the need for stronger oversight and due diligence at publicly supported technology showcases.
Separately, some attendees reported logistical challenges at the venue, including crowding during peak sessions, adding to scrutiny of the event’s organization.
Why this matters
The episode illustrates how reputational risks can emerge quickly in fast-growing technology ecosystems, especially when innovation claims are made in high-visibility forums.
For policymakers and investors, it underscores the importance of clear disclosure standards, verification processes, and governance frameworks as India seeks to scale its global role in artificial intelligence.
FAQs
Q1. What happened at the summit?
Questions were raised about the origin of a robotic dog displayed at a university stall, prompting authorities to ask the exhibitor to vacate the space.
Q2. Which robot was involved?
Observers identified the device as resembling the Unitree Go2, a commercially available quadruped robot.
Q3. Did the university respond?
Yes. It clarified the robot was not developed by the institution and said there was no intent to misrepresent it.
Q4. Why is the incident significant?
It highlights the importance of transparency and verification at major technology events, particularly as India attracts global AI investment.
Q5. Did the controversy affect the summit overall?
No major program changes were reported, and the event continued with participation from government leaders, investors, and global tech companies.
