Telangana to set up Robo Park, first state to launch robotics framework

HYDERABAD: Telangana has become the first state in the country to launch a State Robotics Framework with a vision of Creating a sustainable robotics ecosystem in Telangana that champions innovation, entrepreneurship, and research and development, positioning the state as a leader in the field of robotics.

This is the sixth framework in line being formulated and was launched by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department. The other frameworks launched were blockchain in 2018 (first in the country), Drones framework - in 2019 ( first in the country), 2020 AI ( first state in the country, NITI Aayog came up with AI for ALL strategy document), the Cloud Adoption Framework in 2021, and in 2022 Space Tech Framework, the minister launched it in Metaverse, a very unique launch. Thus, Telangana has become a pioneer in embracing emerging technologies and a role model for other states to emulate.

The Framework is a comprehensive roadmap that outlines the state's vision for the development of the robotics ecosystem in the state and contributing to the growth of the industry in the country. The framework was developed by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department in collaboration with the All India Robotics Association and inputs from academia, industry experts and stakeholders.

The framework focuses on leveraging robotics technology to drive growth and development across identified four key domains – agriculture, healthcare, industrial automation and consumer robotics. The key points in the framework are that the state would set up a Robo Park equipped with testing facilities, co-working options, and co-production/manufacturing options either at sites owned by the state or in partnership with the industry, academia, and incubators, at competitive rates.

Additionally, the state would establish a world-class robotics accelerator to provide startups with the necessary incubation, infrastructure, authorization support, market insights, investor connect, and mentorship support.

In order to achieve the vision of the framework, the government has identified five key pillars: infrastructure access, business enablement, fostering research & innovation, human capital enhancement and responsible deployment. These pillars are critical components of the framework for promoting a vibrant and sustainable robotics industry in the state. To fulfil its vision, the state would set up a separate body called the Telangana Robotics Innovation Center (TRIC) which would be responsible for the implementation of this framework and would be the nodal point to implement the key pillars of the Framework.

The state also inked MOUs with five organisations, including academic institutions, business groups, and incubators, at the ceremony. The organisations are IIT Hyderabad, ART PARK IISC, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL), AgHub (PJTSAU), and All India Robotics Association (AIRA). Overall, these agreements seek to boost Telangana's robotics ecosystem while also encouraging innovation, research, and growth in the field.

Telangana state is also planning to organize a Global Robotics Summit to showcase its growing robotics ecosystem and attract investments from across the world. The summit would provide a platform for startups, researchers, and industry leaders to showcase their work, network with potential partners and investors, and explore new business opportunities. A poster for the summit was also launched at the event.

Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary ITE&C and Industries, Government of Telangana said, “We are confident that the launch of the framework will catalyze the growth of the robotics industry in Telangana and the country. We believe that the Telangana Robotics Innovation Center (TRIC) that will be set up soon will play a pivotal role in implementing the framework and fostering a sustainable robotics ecosystem in the state. The partnerships established will be our first step towards nurturing the robotics ecosystem in the state.”