Subject: Science & Technology

India's rapid industrial transformation and the 59% surge in robot installations in 2023 highlight the growing significance of robotics in managing hazardous and prohibitive labor while ensuring sustainable development and innovation.

Areas of Prohibitive Labour for Robotic Management

• Hazardous Industrial Operations:

  • Implementation in nuclear power plants for handling radioactive materials.
  • Chemical industry operations involving toxic substances and extreme temperatures.
  • Mining operations in deep underground conditions with poor visibility and ventilation.

• High-Precision Manufacturing:

  • Automotive sector witnessing 139% increase in robot adoption for welding and assembly.
  • Maruti Suzuki's automated painting systems reducing human exposure to harmful chemicals.
  • Tata Motors' robotic body shop operations enhancing precision and safety.

• Healthcare Services:

  • Handling bio-hazardous materials in laboratories and medical waste management.
  • Surgical assistance in high-risk procedures and contaminated environments.
  • Sanitization and disinfection during pandemic situations.

Initiatives to Propel Research and Innovation

• Policy Framework:

  • Implementation of National Strategy on Robotics for enhanced funding and collaboration.
  • DRDO's allocation of ₹22.7 crore to Defence Innovation Accelerator Centres.
  • Integration with Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

• Academic-Industry Partnership:

  • Establishment of Centers of Excellence in premier institutes.
  • Industry-sponsored research projects for practical applications.
  • Joint ventures between IITs and manufacturing companies.

• Funding and Support:

  • Start-up India scheme supporting robotics entrepreneurs.
  • Technology Business Incubators for nurturing innovation.
  • Private sector investments in R&D facilities.

The convergence of Industry 4.0 and robotics presents immense opportunities for India. With continued focus on research, innovation, and implementation of initiatives like the National Robotics Strategy, India can emerge as a global hub for sustainable robotics solutions while ensuring worker safety and industrial efficiency.