Source: IE
Why in News?
Indian Railways deployed its first humanoid robot ‘ASC ARJUN’ at Visakhapatnam Railway Station, Andhra Pradesh, in January 2026.
About ‘ASC ARJUN’
- Type: Humanoid robot
- Deployment agency: Railway Protection Force (RPF)
- Developed in: Visakhapatnam using indigenous technology
- Role: Augments (does not replace) human security and station staff
Key Capabilities
1. Security & Surveillance
- Face Recognition System (FRS) for identifying intruders
- Real-time IoT-based alerts to RPF control rooms
- Enhances response time during security threats
2. Crowd Management
- AI-based crowd density analysis
- Helps manage peak-hour congestion and prevent stampede-like situations
3. Platform Patrolling
- Semi-autonomous 24×7 patrols
- Obstacle detection and avoidance
- Reduces routine manpower burden
