Modern Delhi – Galgotias University has been ordered to exit the India AI Expo following revelations that a robot dog presented as an institutional innovation was, in fact, a commercially available model manufactured in China. The incident, which unfolded on Tuesday at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, has sparked criticism and raised questions about the representation of indigenous technology at a high-profile government-backed event.
A source confirmed to multiple news outlets that Galgotias University was asked to vacate its booth “immediately.” The controversy began when a faculty member showcased the quadruped robot, dubbed ‘Orion,’ as a product of the university’s Centre of Excellence. Government social media accounts, including that of the Ministry of Electronics and IT, initially shared footage of the robot, amplifying its presentation as a domestic innovation.
However, social media users quickly identified the robot as the Unitree Go2, a model manufactured by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics. The Unitree Go2 is commercially available for approximately $1,600, according to online listings. Images circulating online also showed remnants of the original manufacturer’s branding still visible on the device, further fueling the backlash.
The university initially issued a statement attempting to clarify the situation, stating that it had not claimed to have built the robot itself. “Let us be clear — Galgotias has not built this robodog, neither have we claimed,” the university said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “But what we are building are minds that will soon design, engineer and manufacture such technologies right here in Bharat.”
— Galgotias University (@GalgotiasGU) February 17, 2026
Galgotias University further explained that the robot was “not merely a machine on display — It’s a classroom in motion,” and that the university had recently acquired it from Unitree. The university had previously claimed to have invested over Rs 350 crore in artificial intelligence infrastructure, according to reports.
Backlash and Broader Concerns
The incident quickly drew widespread criticism online, with users accusing the university of misrepresentation and attempting to capitalize on the national focus on indigenous innovation. The story also gained traction on Chinese social media platforms, adding to the embarrassment. The swift reaction underscores the sensitivity surrounding claims of technological advancement, particularly within the context of India’s push for self-reliance.
The controversy comes at a time when the Indian government is heavily promoting the country’s growing artificial intelligence capabilities through initiatives like the IndiaAI Mission, which has invested Rs 10,372 crore to build a comprehensive AI ecosystem. The India AI Impact Summit, co-located with the India AI Expo, aims to showcase India’s ambitions in the field and attract global collaboration.
Government Response and Expo Context
The government’s decision to ask Galgotias University to vacate its booth signals a firm stance against misrepresentation at the India AI Expo. The event, which began on Tuesday, brings together political leaders, technology giants, and researchers to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the summit on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of “inclusive technology for everyone” as reported by the Times of India.
The incident with Galgotias University has prompted a broader discussion about the demand for greater transparency and accountability in showcasing technological innovations at government-backed forums. It raises questions about the vetting process for exhibitors and the potential for misrepresenting off-the-shelf products as indigenous developments.
What’s Next?
The immediate fallout for Galgotias University is its removal from the India AI Expo. Beyond that, the incident is likely to lead to increased scrutiny of claims made by exhibitors at future technology events. The Ministry of Electronics and IT has not yet released a formal statement outlining any further actions, but the swift response suggests a commitment to upholding the integrity of the India AI Impact Summit and promoting genuine innovation. The focus now shifts to ensuring that future showcases accurately reflect the source and development of the technologies on display.
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