India Unveils Draft Framework for Humanoid Robot Regulation - RobotWale News

New Delhi, India – The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) announced on Tuesday the release of draft guidelines governing the deployment of humanoid robots within public infrastructure across India. This move marks a significant regulatory milestone as global players like Tesla and Boston Dynamics eye the Indian market. The framework aims to standardize safety protocols while fostering domestic manufacturing under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. The announcement was made during the National Robotics Summit in New Delhi. ## Safety and Liability Standards The draft framework mandates that all humanoid robots operating in public spaces must adhere to strict safety protocols. Manufacturers are required to obtain certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) before commercial deployment. The guidelines specify that liability in the event of mechanical failure or data breaches rests primarily with the operating entity rather than the developer. This shift places a heavy compliance burden on manufacturers but ensures public safety in crowded environments. Experts note that this mirrors regulations seen in the European Union regarding AI liability. ## Impact on Indian Manufacturing Industry experts suggest these regulations will bolster the 'Make in India' initiative. Local manufacturers can expect reduced import duties if they meet the new safety certification criteria. Pricing for imported humanoid robots is expected to range between ₹40 lakhs and ₹80 lakhs, whereas locally assembled units could see a 20% reduction in costs due to subsidies. The PLI scheme aims to encourage the establishment of assembly lines within states like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Startups in the robotics sector are reportedly preparing for compliance audits to qualify for government grants. ## Data Privacy Concerns The policy also addresses data sovereignty. Humanoid robots equipped with cameras or sensors must store data on local servers within India. This aligns with the broader Digital Personal Data Protection Act. Foreign companies operating in India must partner with local data centers to comply with these regulations, potentially delaying deployment timelines but ensuring national security. This clause is particularly critical for AI-driven automation systems that process real-time visual data. ## Next Steps Stakeholders have been given a 60-day window to submit feedback on the draft framework. The final policy is expected to be notified by the end of the fiscal year. This regulation positions India as a regulated but attractive market for robotics investment. Industry bodies are urging the government to clarify tax incentives for research and development to offset compliance costs.