Humanoid robot Sophia to participate in Vizag Fintech

Andhra Pradesh government’s flagship event the Vizag Fintech this year edition began in Visakhapatnam on Monday.

The five-day event is being organised jointly by Fintech Valley Vizag and Singapore-based SingEx. The event said to be the largest Fintech festival in the country attracted domain experts, investors and CEOs of various companies involved in financial technology.

In addition to several brainstorming sessions, Sophia, the first humanoid robot, a Saudi Arabian citizen is visiting Andhra Pradesh for the first time. Sophia was first activated on 19, April 2015. The humanoid robot can display more than 62 facial expressions.

JA Chowdary, Special Chief Secretary and IT Advisor to AP government told media persons that Sophia will interact with experts in financial technologies, regulators, investors and IT professionals during her maiden appearance on Tuesday. Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu will also be present.

Golf tournament for corporate executives

The event kickstarted with a networking golf tournament of CxOs at the East Point Golf Club. At least 75 CxOs showcased their skills. However, the formal inauguration is scheduled for Tuesday by Chandrababu Naidu. The highlight of the festival is the $1 Million Start-up Challenge.

“In all, 2,000 delegates from 15 countries will be taking part in the mega event. Stakeholders from insurance, banking and emerging financial technologies will be attending the event,” said J.A. Chowdary. He said that the organisers have conducted roadshows in the USA, UK, France and Tel Aviv to promote the Vizag Fintech and the roadshows evoked a good response.

Demo Day on 25 October

On October 25, over 15 finalists selected from across the globe will present their innovative ideas before a panel as a part of the ‘Demo Day’ programme. The finalists have agreed to launch a part of their initiatives here. The AP government on its part would extend support through finances and other facilities.

Swathi Atluri, artistic director of New Jersey-based Siddhendra Kuchipudi Art Academy and her 15-member troupe will be performing a Kuchipudi dance based on empowerment of women.