3 Essential Robotics & Automation Stories for Professionals
According to Press Monitor's tracking of Indian publications, this media monitoring and press review brings you three essential stories on robotics and automation. From workforce transformation to defence innovation, these stories reflect the power of media intelligence and print media monitoring in capturing the full picture of news on robotics and automation.
1. Robotics Firms Hire New Workers
A front-page report in Economic Times says the rise of physical artificial intelligence is spawning a new class of workers, with staffing firms and robotics startups hiring people to operate, supervise and maintain machines. Instawork has hired around 6000 people in India and globally 28000 workers now work in robotics-related roles spanning data capture, teleoperations, field operations and field technical work. India-based platform Awign is also building its physical AI business across specialised technology roles and field operations.
Why it matters: The rise of physical AI is creating an entirely new class of workers, fundamentally changing how businesses integrate automation with human talent.
Key detail/stat: Instawork has hired around 6,000 people in India, while globally 28,000 workers now fill robotics-related roles spanning data capture, teleoperations, field operations, and field technical work.
Source: Economic Times, Delhi, 18 July 2026, by Puran Choudhary
Next step: As robotics adoption accelerates, the demand for skilled operators and supervisors will only grow — what roles will your organisation need to fill?
2. BITS Startup Builds Autonomous Defence Systems
A front-page report in Deccan Chronicle says Bejjan Tech, founded by BITS-Pilani Hyderabad students Naman Kasliwal and Shiv Patil, has developed autonomous defence systems for drones, artillery, and battlefield communications for the Indian Army. The startup has secured a 220 lakh MVP order and is conducting field trials at Pokhran, Secunderabad, Leh, and Jaisalmer.
Why it matters: Autonomous systems are redefining modern warfare, and Indian startups are moving from concept to deployment at unprecedented speed.
Key detail/stat: Bejjan Tech has secured a 220 lakh MVP order and is conducting field trials at Pokhran, Secunderabad, Leh, and Jaisalmer for the Indian Army.
Source: Deccan Chronicle, Hyderabad, 10 September 2026, by Rachel Dammala
Next step: With defence technology evolving rapidly, how should policymakers and industry leaders prepare for autonomous systems in national security?
3. North Leads Shanghai Dairy Queen
A front-page report in Economic Times says that the Dairy Queen store in Shanghai is helmed by North, an AI‑driven humanoid robot developed by Sharpa, which takes orders, prepares ice cream, adds toppings and entertains customers all day. The robot was developed by Sharpa.
Why it matters: As humanoid robots transition from labs to commercial environments, the implications for hospitality, retail, and customer experience industries are profound.
Key detail/stat: North, an AI-driven humanoid robot developed by Sharpa, takes orders, prepares ice cream, adds toppings, and entertains customers all day at a Dairy Queen store in Shanghai.
Source: Economic Times, Delhi, 11 September 2026
Next step: If service robots can run a food outlet in Shanghai, what does this mean for the future of customer-facing roles worldwide?
Which of these developments do you think will have the greatest impact on your industry? Share your thoughts in the comments.