IIT Kharagpur plans to establish what it describes as India’s first “Physical Artificial Intelligence” school, aimed at bringing AI closer to real-world applications. The initiative is expected to focus on areas such as robotics, autonomous systems, healthcare, engineering, and scientific innovation, with an overall investment of ₹35 crore.
The plan is associated with the Benjamin Gupta School of Physical AI, named in memory of Benjamin Gupta. Coverage says IIT Kharagpur has signed a tripartite MoU involving its alumni and philanthropist Vinod Gupta, along with the IITKGP Foundation USA. Details in one report add that the school will be set up under the MoU, house a Department of Artificial Intelligence, and support interdisciplinary academic and research work.
Sources also frame “Physical AI” as distinct from conventional AI by emphasizing intelligent systems that sense, interact with, and are controlled in the physical world—rather than relying only on digital applications. One outlet notes programmes are expected to begin in the upcoming session, subject to approvals, and highlights an emphasis on reliable, explainable, and responsible AI for safety-critical uses.
