The rage for robotics Karkhana Pvt Ltd and Robotics Association of Nepal (RAN) are jointly organising the second edition of Nepal Robotics Championship ‘Yantra 2.0’ on October 1, at Dashrath Stadium, Tripureshwor. Promoted as ‘Mission Nepal’, the robotic competition is sub-divided into three categories — ‘Mission Nepal’, ‘Robo Akhada’ and ‘Robo Racer’. The winners of ‘Mission Nepal’ will be awarded with Rs 40,000 cash along with a gift hamper worth Rs 20,000. Similarly, the second prize is Rs 20,000 cash including gift hamper worth Rs 10,000 while the third prize is a gift hamper worth Rs 10,000. Likewise, the winners of Robo Akhada and Robo Racer will receive Rs 12,000 along with a gift hamper worth Rs 6,000 as first prize and Rs 3,000 including a gift hamper worth Rs 6,000 as second prize while the third prize is gift hamper worth Rs 3,000. Target locked Sunoj Das Shrestha, president of RAN, says, “Our aim is to develop the multi-dimensional field of robotics which can enhance the creativity of participants and students.” According to him, such events provide a platform for enthusiasts to learn more about robotics by practically using the engineering skills learned in the classrooms.” Similarly, Pavitra Gautam, chief executive officer of Karkhana, says, “We have been looking for participation not only from engineering robotics clubs, but also from students of plus-two colleges and schools.” According to him, altogether 50 teams comprising of 200 students are participating in the event — 13 teams in ‘Mission Nepal’, 12 teams in ‘Robo Akhada’ and 25 teams in ‘Robo Racer’. Briefing about the event this year, Gautam adds, “Last year, there were no strict time limit and rules as it was organised for the first time. But this time around, we have strict rules and regulations in place, which have to be followed within the given timeframe.” Major highlights ‘Yantra 2.0’ is basically an event where engineering as well as non-engineering students bring a robot they have built and the robots race each other in the course to cross the finish line first. The level of difficulty varies in the three sub-categories, with ‘Mission Nepal’ being the most difficult, followed by Robo Akhada and Robo Racer. According to Shrestha, ‘Yantra’ means ‘machine’ that helps people carryout their daily activities in Nepali language. The organisers hope the event will prove to be both entertaining and informative where students can implement their ideas and knowledge creatively. Moreover, it will also promote robotics in Nepal. Robots en route Neha Shakya, a student of Electronics and Communication at Advanced College of Engineering and Management says, “I’m excited, nervous and thrilled at the same time to be in the competition to implement our innovative ideas into making of robots. We only have theoretical knowledge about robotics and the competition will provide us a platform to showcase our talent.” Shakya along with Prabita Pradhan, Prathana Khakurel and Minu Sarras have teamed up as ‘Spark’ and they are the only all female team in the competition. Shakya adds, “We’re making a robot in ‘Mission Nepal’ category. The robot will walk the white line without touching the sidewalls, kept as a blockage. There will be many obstacles but we will surely succeed in crossing the finish line.” While admitting that they do hope to win the competition, she says that the team Spark is considering the opportunity to participate in the event as an achievement in itself. Robotics Association had already organised Yantra 1.0 and Yantra Techkriti. Through this event, the association aims to involve maximum tech buffs in the latest advancements in robotics technology, by focusing on knowledge sharing and hands-on experience through team spirit. To participate in the competition, one can register via ran.org.np/ yantra/ and pay the allocated amount as per the themes. Also, the entrance fee for students with valid identity card is Rs 50, while it is Rs 100 for normal visitors.
Posted on: Mon, 30 Sep 2013 04:24:30 +0000
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