ESTIC 2026 to spotlight physical AI, autonomous systems and robotics
The October 27–29 conclave in New Delhi will bring researchers, industry and start-ups together to explore emerging technologies and their applications in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare and logistics.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) outlined the focus at a curtain-raiser on Thursday.
NEW DELHI: Autonomous systems, physical artificial intelligence and robotics will be among the 12 thematic areas at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2026), scheduled for October 27–29 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) outlined the focus at a curtain-raiser on Thursday. Organised by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, the second edition will bring together Indian and international scientists, Nobel laureates, technology companies, start-ups, entrepreneurs and young researchers.
DST Secretary Umesh Waghmare said autonomous systems, physical AI and robotics could support safer and more productive applications in manufacturing, precision agriculture, healthcare and rehabilitation, logistics, infrastructure monitoring and disaster response.
He emphasised the need to develop technologies that are reliable, safe, affordable and suited to Indian conditions, while strengthening links between research, engineering and deployment.
Under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems, DST has established 25 Technology Innovation Hubs. These include TiHAN at IIT Hyderabad, IHFC at IIT Delhi and ARTPARK at the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, which connect research with experimentation and practical applications.
NITI Aayog Member Abhay Karandikar identified physical AI as an emerging direction in artificial intelligence and called for the conclave to inform discussions on the next phase of the cyber-physical systems mission.
The conclave’s theme, “Creative minds catalyzing science and empowering technology”, will focus on translating scientific ideas into technologies for societal use. Sessions will provide opportunities to exchange ideas and build partnerships across research institutions, industry and the start-up ecosystem.
