Zoho invests in deep-tech startup Genrobotics working against manual scavenging

Chennai: Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) major Zoho has invested Rs 20 crore in Genrobotics, a startup that has rolled out a robotic scavenger capable of cleaning confined spaces such as sewers in its attempt to eradicate manual scavenging in the country, according to a Zoho statement.

The Thiruvananthapuram-based Genrobotics, which leverages AI and robotic concepts to provide solutions to replace humans working in hazardous work conditions, had rolled out the Bandicoot robot. The product helps clean sewers, manholes, stormwater manholes and oily water sewers in refineries. It has been utilised across 14 states in India by smart cities, urban local bodies, refineries, corporations, housing colonies, and other areas.

Genrobotics was the winner in the Social Enterprise category at the ET Startup Awards 2021.


Indian Inc veterans such as Anand Mahindra and Rajan Anandan, have backed Genrobotics, besides it raising capital from venture funds Unicorn India Ventures and others.

"Nurturing a thriving deep-tech ecosystem is one of the priorities of Zoho and the investment in Genrobotics is part of that commitment," cofounder and CEO Sridhar Vembu said.

Genrobotics' CEO Vimal Govind said the company has managed to rehabilitate hundreds of people working as manual scavengers as robot operators.

The five-year-old Genrobotics has also launched a robot-assisted gait training solution to aid paraplegic patients. The company plans to deploy over one lakh Bandicoot robots in the country.