Posted by Bangalore – Mumbai: Nandan Nilekani, Co-Founder and Chairman of Infosys and Founding Chairman of UIDAI, has donated Rs 315 crore ($ 38.5 million) to IIT Bombay.
This substantial contribution builds upon his previous grants of Rs 85 crore to the institute, bringing the cumulative value of his support to Rs 400 crore. The donation will be instrumental in fostering world-class infrastructure, stimulating research in emerging areas of engineering and technology, and nurturing a deep tech startup ecosystem at IIT Bombay.
Nandan Nilekani and Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director, IIT Bombay, formally signed an MoU today in Bengaluru. This significant contribution serves as the anchor for IIT Bombay’s ambitious vision to become a global leader among engineering and technology institutes and contribute significantly towards nation-building.
Nilekani joined IIT Bombay in 1973 for a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. The donation marks the golden jubilee of Nilekani’s association with the Institute and reflects the deep bond he continues to share with his alma mater. It also stands as one of the largest donations made by an alumnus in India.
“IIT-Bombay has been a cornerstone in my life, shaping my formative years and laying the foundation for my journey. As I celebrate 50 years of my association with this esteemed Institution, I am grateful to give forward and contribute to its future,” said Nandan Nilekani.
“This donation is more than just a financial contribution; it is a tribute to the place that has given me so much and a commitment to the students who will shape our world tomorrow,” added Nilekani.
“We are extremely delighted to see our illustrious alumnus Nandan Nilekani, continuing his foundational and pioneering contributions to the Institute. This historic donation will significantly accelerate the growth of IIT Bombay and will firmly set it on a path of global leadership,” said IIT Bombay Director Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri
“IIT Bombay is committed to building research and academic excellence that can make India a leader in scientific discovery and its translation towards solving the pressing challenges facing humankind. Nandan’s contribution will catalyse philanthropic contributions towards advancing research and development at universities in India,” added Prof. Chaudhuri.
Over the last 50 years, Nilekani has stayed connected with the Institute in multiple roles. He served on the Board of the IIT Bombay Heritage Foundation from 1999 to 2009 and was on the Board of Governors from 2005 to 2011.