Up the robotics game

With countries like Brazil and China having a higher robot density rate, it is time India caught up with focused investments and interest

April 13, 2019 12:03 pm | Updated 12:05 pm IST

As more students are opting for robotics as a career choice, the demand for trained individuals in this field is also on the rise.

As per a study by Indeed, job postings in the sector saw a rise of 191% between May 2015 and May 2018. Matching the demand graph, there has been an increase of 186% in job seekers looking for work opportunities in this sector.

With both students and companies keenly interested in robotics, is the Indian education system ready to cater to their needs?

At least 15 universities and colleges in India are now offering robotics courses such as M.Tech in robotics, robotics automation and engineering, M.E. in automation and robotics, and more.

“Robotics is creating a revolution in certain fields like automotive, electrical and the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), primarily by automating the manufacturing process,” says Tarun Bhalla, CEO & Founder of Avishkaar.

Growing niche

Despite the fear of automation taking away jobs, the scope of robotics in India is rising as it is a fast-growing niche industry. “Robots are increasingly being used in different industries, with drones already being employed in oil refineries, agriculture, and aerial inspection of manufacturing plants. Robots are also being used to inspect civil structures, bridges, steel plants, refineries etc. India’s defence sector has also warmed to the idea of inducting a robotic force into their fold. Currently, there are robotic bomb disposal squads, and there is a mandate in place stating that one-third of the armed forces should be comprised of robots in the next decade,” explains Bhalla.

This rise of robotics has been a little late in India when compared to other countries. As per 2017 World Robot Statistics report, there are only three robots per 10,000 employees in India. However, even with a delicate economic situation, Brazil has 10 robots per 10,000 employees.

“Brazil already has the technology, domestic and international companies, university, and professionals capable of providing the technical and personnel support needed to move the country’s industry forward towards the process of renovation and sustained growth,” says Bhalla.

China is another country that has a high-density rate due to the growth of robot density. Due to increase in robot installations between 2013 and 2016, “the density rate rose from 25 units in 2013 to 68 units in 2016. Today, China’s robot density ranks 23rd worldwide. China has set a goal of selling 1,00,000 domestically produced industrial robots by 2020 and is working full-steam towards it.”

These countries have made sure to invest in the right kind of platforms for students interested in this field. This will also lead to the establishment of better infrastructure. Another major learning to be taken from these countries is to “invest in robotics education through skilling courses offered by state and private industries,” opines Tarun.

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