The Technical Advisory Committee for Robofest Gujarat 5.0 has selected 137 teams for the competition's grand finale. This announcement came on Monday after a thorough evaluation process.
State Dominates Finalist List
Among the advancing teams, 104 represent institutions from Gujarat itself. The remaining 33 teams come from prestigious educational institutions across India.
These outside teams include representatives from MNIT Jaipur, IIT Kanpur, BITS Pilani, NIT Rourkela, MANIT Bhopal, VIT Chennai, Chandigarh University and Lovely Professional University.
Grand Finale Details
The final round will take place during the third week of March. Gujarat Science City in Ahmedabad will host this exciting conclusion to the robotics competition.
Recent Evaluation Process
The Gujarat Council on Science and Technology organized the Technical Advisory Committee meeting from December 28 to 30, 2025. They conducted this evaluation at the International Automobile Centre of Excellence in Gandhinagar.
During this Level-II Proof of Concept round, 229 teams participated. These teams included approximately 1,200 students and their mentors.
Competition Categories and Demonstrations
Participants showcased working robotic models across nine competitive categories. The event featured live demonstrations that captivated observers.
Robots performed various tasks including:
- Racing on tracks
- Maneuvering through air
- Solving maze challenges
- Navigating complex terrains
- Operating underwater
These demonstrations occurred at multiple locations including the iACE campus and Sachivalaya Gymkhana in Gandhinagar.
Evaluation Criteria
The Technical Advisory Committee comprised experts from prestigious institutions nationwide. They assessed teams using specific parameters:
- Technical robustness
- Functionality
- Complexity
- Originality
- Innovation quotient
- Quality of demonstration
Government Perspective
Arjun Modhwadia, Gujarat's Minister of Science and Technology, expressed enthusiasm about the competition. He stated that Robofest Gujarat 5.0 demonstrates the strength of Gujarat's innovation ecosystem.
"The scale, quality and national participation reflect our commitment to creating a robust pipeline of future scientists, technologists and innovators," Modhwadia said.
Patent Achievement
During Robofest Gujarat 5.0, participants filed more than 229 patents through GUJCOST's Patent Information Cell. This represents a significant achievement for a student robotics competition.
Policy Alignment
Robofest Gujarat 5.0 aligns with Gujarat's Science, Technology and Innovation Policy. This initiative supports the state's vision of building a knowledge-driven, innovation-led economy.
The competition strengthens Gujarat's STI ecosystem by nurturing early-stage innovation and promoting hands-on learning. It creates pathways from ideas to prototypes, patents, startups and entrepreneurship.
Official Statements
P Bharathi, Secretary of Gujarat's Department of Science and Technology, commented on the program's significance. "Robofest Gujarat is a shining example of how Gujarat's STI Policy is being translated into action on the ground," Bharathi said.
"By empowering students to innovate, build, patent, and compete nationally, we are nurturing a generation that will drive India's technological leadership and self-reliance," the Secretary added.
Broader Impact
Robofest integrates robotics, automation, AI, mobility and advanced engineering with institutional support systems. These include IP facilitation, mentoring, incubation, and industry linkages.
The program complements Gujarat's broader innovation infrastructure, which includes:
- Science Cities
- Regional Science Centres
- Centres of Excellence
- Start-up missions
- Academic-industry collaborations
This reinforcement strengthens Gujarat's position as a national hub for STEM excellence.
Motivation for Young Innovators
Robofest Gujarat 5.0 offers a total prize pool of Rs 5 crore. This substantial reward continues to motivate young innovators across the state and country.
The competition encourages participants to pursue technological excellence, research-driven entrepreneurship, and societal impact through innovation.
