DST’s ESTIC session discusses transformations in science and innovations with autonomous systems, physical AI and robotics

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) hosted a session on Autonomous Systems, Physical AI, and Robotics at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. DST Secretary Prof. Umesh V. Waghmare highlighted the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, noting that technology innovation hubs have been established at 25 leading academic institutions, with Phase I scheduled to conclude in December 2027. Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Member, NITI Aayog, discussed Physical AI as a systems engineering challenge requiring reliability, safety, and trustworthiness, and mentioned stakeholder consultations considering a proposal for a Physical AI Mission.