The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has received a $38.5 million grant from Nandan Nilekani, co-founder and chairman of IT behemoth Infosys.
His total support for the institute now stands at Rs 400 crore thanks to this contribution and his prior gift of Rs 85 crore. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was signed by Nilekani and Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri, the Director of IIT Bombay, formalized the donation.
Nilekani posted an official statement from IIT that reads, “This substantial contribution will play a crucial role in enhancing the infrastructure of the institute to meet global standards, promoting research in emerging areas of engineering and technology, and nurturing a thriving ecosystem for deep technology startups at IIT Bombay.”
“IIT-Bombay has been a pillar in my life, moulding my formative years and creating the groundwork for my path. As I commemorate 50 years of my affiliation with this prestigious institution, I am honoured to pay it forward and invest in its future. This gift is more than just a financial one; it is also a dedication to the kids who will influence the future of our globe and a tribute to the location that has given me so much. Nilekani uttered.
Director Subhasis Chaudhuri stated that this gift will significantly accelerate IIT Bombay’s growth and establish it as a global leader. In order to establish India as a global leader in scientific discovery and its useful applications to tackle the most serious problems facing humanity, he emphasised the institute’s dedication to fostering research and academic achievement. Nilekani’s investment, according to Chaudhuri, will spur more charitable donations aimed at improving research and development at Indian colleges.
About Nandan Neilkani
The EkStep Foundation was co-founded by Nandan Nilekani, who is best known for serving as the founding chairman of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) from 2009 to 2014. Through the development of a learner-centric, technologically driven platform, this non-profit organisation hopes to strengthen the fundamental skills of literacy and numeracy for millions of youngsters.
Nilekani was chosen in January 2023 to serve as co-chair of the “G20 Task Force on Digital Public Infrastructure for Economic Transformation, Financial Inclusion, and Development.”
