India Drafts New Safety Framework for Humanoid Robot Deployment - RobotWale News

Government Proposes Comprehensive Safety Standards for Humanoid Robots

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has officially released a draft framework outlining safety and operational guidelines for humanoid robots deployed in public sectors across India. Announced on October 20, 2024, the policy aims to standardize AI-driven robotic systems before they enter mass production lines. This initiative follows the National AI Mission's broader mandate to regulate autonomous systems and ensure public safety.

Compliance Costs and Market Pricing

Industry experts suggest that initial compliance with the new guidelines may increase manufacturing costs by approximately 12 percent for domestic startups. However, the government has linked the framework to the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for high-tech products. This linkage could offset costs for companies meeting the new safety criteria. For instance, a humanoid robot currently priced at 25 lakh rupees in the Indian market may see a price adjustment to 28 lakh rupees during the transition period. Once certified under the new framework, products will qualify for tax rebates.

Stakeholder Consultation Phase

MeitY has opened a 90-day window for feedback from robotics manufacturers, including major players like Astha Robotics and international partners operating in India. The policy emphasizes liability insurance requirements for public-facing robots. This move is expected to clarify the legal framework for accidents involving autonomous agents in public spaces. The consultation period will conclude in early 2025, with the final policy expected to be implemented by mid-year.

According to the draft document, manufacturers must adhere to ISO standards regarding motion safety and data privacy. This alignment is intended to boost investor confidence in the Indian robotics sector. The policy also proposes a certification body under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to oversee compliance audits. Additionally, the draft suggests a reduction in import duties for non-domestic components used in certified robots, aiming to lower the overall cost of production while maintaining quality standards.