Indian Economy News

Curtain-raiser for ESTIC 2026 underline importance of Autonomous Systems, Physical AI and Robotics

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) held the curtain-raiser for the second edition of the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2026) on October 15, 2026, at Technology Bhawan, highlighting the role of autonomous systems, physical artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in advancing India’s science and technology ecosystem. Organised around the theme “Creative Minds Catalysing Science and Empowering Technology”, ESTIC 2026 will bring together Indian and international scientists, Nobel laureates, industry representatives, technology companies, startups, entrepreneurs and young researchers. Member of NITI Aayog Prof. Abhay Karandikar, who attended the curtain-raiser as Chief Guest, highlighted the importance of using the conclave to discuss the future of physical AI and the development of cyber-physical systems. Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology Prof. Umesh Waghmare emphasised that autonomous systems, physical AI and robotics could support safer and more productive applications across manufacturing, precision agriculture, healthcare, rehabilitation, logistics, infrastructure monitoring and disaster response.

The conclave will provide a platform for exchanging ideas, developing partnerships and translating scientific research into practical technologies in support of Viksit Bharat 2047. Prof. Umesh Waghmare stressed the need to develop solutions that are reliable, safe, affordable and suited to Indian conditions. Under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, the Department of Science and Technology has established 25 Technology Innovation Hubs, including TiHAN at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, IHFC at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and ARTPARK at the Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru. These hubs connect research with engineering, experimentation and real-world applications. The National Quantum Mission was also highlighted as an example of translating scientific research into technology development, entrepreneurship and practical applications. The curtain-raiser included a presentation on ESTIC 2026 by Joint Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology Ms. A. Dhanlakshmi, alongside the screening of promotional videos and the launch of the conclave brochure. Organised by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, ESTIC 2026 will take place from October 27 to 29, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.