Context: Recently, the Trivandrum-based robotics startup has deployed its Bandicoot manhole cleaning robots across 11 states.

• They have developed a globally relevant product and are already in talks with some international governing bodies for its deployment.”

Key Points

• An automated manhole cleaning robot called Bandicoot 2.0, developed by Genrobotics, is doing its bit to eradicate this unhealthy practice.
• Initially, the aim is to eliminate manual scavenging in Kerala by 2020 using technologies like Bandicoot. This will be done by teaching manual scavengers to operate the robot with the aim of rehabilitating them thus helping them earn a decent living without fear of losing jobs and lives.
• Even the ministry of housing and urban affairs and Smart City Mission India have recognised the potential of Bandicoot 2.0.
• Soon after its successful implementation at Coimbatore smart city, the Central ministry has suggested Bandicoot 2.0 as a good example for enabling zero human-intervention in the sewerage cleaning process.

Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra has also invested in Genrobotics in his personal capacity in this round along with SEA Fund. 

• Without doubt, the young startup professionals at Genrobotic have received a shot in the arm when Mahindra praised their innovation and expressed interest to help them scale up.
• “There’s a lot of nervousness about the role of robots and AI in the future. But frankly, if robots can liberate people from this most degrading job in the universe, then I promise I will discard any doubts and always pray at the shrine of technology and robotics.”
• The funds raised will be used for further scaling up production of Bandicoot and to develop new products and R&D to leverage the technology for the health care segment.