The recent Delhi summit on India’s AI policy has ignited a firestorm of controversy. What Indian university faked the creation of a Chinese attack robotic dog? One professor from the university even went so far as to call … They claimed that their university was the originator of the Go2 model, which Unitree Robotics produced. Delegates from more than 100 countries filled the venue. This had included many of the other heads of government but especially tech leaders like Sundar Pichai of Google, leaking even more embarrassment and miscommunication.
The specific university involved, Galgotias University, denied any allegation or even the intention of having built such a robotic dog. In response to the blowback, they characterized the reaction as a “full-fledged propaganda campaign,” arguing that their mission had been misconstrued. That was Professor Neha Singh, who admitted that in saying what she said, she maybe didn’t communicate her message as clearly. She posited the idea that either she was just communicating her ideas poorly, or her listeners were just not able to grasp them.
The Go2 model is commercially available for about 200,000 rupees – about $2,200 or £1,600. This breakthrough product is just the latest addition to Unitree Robotics‘ lineup of cool, cutting-edge technology. In response to the backlash, they withdrew the electricity supply to the university’s booth. This sudden shift left them with even less time and ability to join the summit.
An official from Galgotias University even falsely boasted that the robotic dog was their own invention. They released this news as part of a showcase specifically designed to highlight improvements in artificial intelligence. Most attendees and Washington watchers viewed this inaccuracy as a huge stain on the event. This doesn’t bode too well for the university or the summit’s organizers.
S. Krishnan reminded everyone of the importance of upholding the best possible code of conduct while in these spaces. His remark was apt given the conversation unfolding today. He was adamant that “whatever transpired must not be allowed to change how folks go and present or exhibit their work to these occasions.”
In an apparent attempt to clarify their original statement, Galgotias University posted a follow-up statement. They noted that their robotic programming is part of their effort to educate students in AI programming and to develop real-world skills using globally available tools and resources. The university noted that training AI talent is more important than ever in today’s quickly changing technological environment.
The AI summit serves as a platform for policy discussions, startup showcases, and closed-door meetings focused on AI governance, infrastructure, and innovation. The tragedy exemplifies the difficulty in upholding standards of integrity and transparency in an increasingly competitive arena where innovation is pursued with vigor.