Indian Startup Unveils Indigenous Robot Dog ‘Param’ at Delhi AI Summit Amid Controversy
New Delhi: Amid controversy over the display of a Chinese-made robot dog at the ongoing AI Summit in Delhi, a Bengaluru-based startup has showcased an indigenously developed quadruped robot, drawing attention to India’s growing capabilities in advanced robotics.
The controversy erupted after representatives from Galgotias University in Noida allegedly presented a China-manufactured robot dog, Unitree Go2, under the name “Orion,” claiming it as their own development. The incident triggered criticism on social media and raised questions about authenticity in innovation showcases.
In response, Bengaluru-based startup General Autonomy unveiled its fully indigenous robot dog named “Param.” The company announced the launch on social media, stating, “Enough of the noise. Presenting Param — India’s most powerful homegrown robot dog.
No imported components assembled together. Everything is built in India, by Indians, for our nation and for the world.”
The unveiling is widely seen as a direct rebuttal to claims surrounding the Chinese robot’s display. Industry observers noted that the move underscores the importance of transparency and indigenous innovation in India’s rapidly expanding AI and robotics ecosystem.
According to company details, Param weighs approximately 35 kg and can carry payloads of up to 20 kg. It can move at a speed of three metres per second and is capable of jumping up to one metre in height.
The robot features hot-swappable battery capability, offering up to eight hours of operational runtime. Commercial deployment is expected by the second quarter of 2026.
General Autonomy has also developed India’s first walking humanoid robot, “Atom-1,” further strengthening its position in the domestic robotics sector.
Robot dogs, or quadruped robots, are designed to navigate uneven terrains, climb obstacles and transport materials in challenging environments. Globally, such robots are used in industrial inspections, disaster response, defence operations and research applications.
India has been steadily pushing toward reducing reliance on imported hardware by focusing on indigenous design and control systems. Experts say the emergence of homegrown solutions like Param signals a shift toward self-reliance in high-tech manufacturing and robotics innovation.
The AI Summit continues to witness strong participation from startups, universities and tech companies, highlighting India’s ambitions to become a global hub for artificial intelligence and robotics development.
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