The Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory was inaugurated at the School of Core Engineering, GITAM Deemed to be University, Hyderabad, on 6 March 2026 by Anil Kumar Mahendrakar, Plant Head and Senior General Manager – Manufacturing Operations, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Automotive Division, Zaheerabad.
Addressing the gathering, Mahendrakar appreciated the Smart Manufacturing Lab concept and emphasized the importance of bridging academic learning with industrial applications. He expressed Mahindra’s willingness to support the initiative by deputing engineers and technicians to provide expert lectures and hands-on training for students. He also invited GITAM students to visit the Mahindra manufacturing facility for practical exposure to large-scale industrial operations.
He recalled the collaboration between GITAM and Mahindra that began with faculty internships at the company’s plant, noting that two batches of GITAM faculty members have already undergone training, resulting in valuable industry insights and enhanced academic perspectives.
The inaugural ceremony was held in the presence of Prof. D. S. Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor, GITAM Hyderabad; Prof. V. R. Sastry, Former Dean – Core Engineering; and Prof. Ramesh Vaddi, Director, School of Core Engineering. They encouraged students to utilize the facility for interdisciplinary learning, innovation, and research.
Established by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the laboratory aims to strengthen practical learning and research in robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing by providing students with hands-on experience in designing, programming, and operating robotic systems.
The program was coordinated by Prof. P. Srinivas, Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Dr. A. Kiran Kumar, Professor-in-Charge of the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, with the participation of faculty members, students, and staff.
The new facility marks another significant step in GITAM’s commitment to technology-driven education and industry-relevant skill development.
