Nandan Nilekani, Co-founder of Infosys, gives his Alma Mater IIT Bombay, ₹315cr

20th June 2023: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has received a donation of Rs 315 crore ($38.5 million) from former student, now Infosys co-founder and chairman Nandan Nilekani. His total assistance to the institute now stands at Rs 400 crore thanks to the investment, which adds to his prior donation of Rs 85 crore.

Nilekani and Professor Subhasis Chaudhuri, Director of IIT Bombay, formally signed the memorandum of understanding, in Bengaluru on Tuesday.

Speaking about his investment Nilekani noted that IIT Bombay has been a cornerstone in his life, influencing his formative years and providing the framework for his path.

He said, “As I celebrate 50 years of my association with this esteemed Institution, I am grateful to give forward and contribute to its future. 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.”

Nilekani enrolled in IIT Bombay in 1973 to pursue a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree. Nilekani’s 50-year affiliation with the institute is commemorated with this humongous donation.

In the meantime, Professor Chaudhuri claimed that Nilekani’s historic donation will greatly accelerate IIT Bombay’s growth and firmly place it on a path towards world leadership.

Professor Chaudhuri said, “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.”

It should be mentioned that Nilekani has remained involved with the institute for the past 50 years, serving in a variety of capacities. He sat on the Board of Governors from 2005 to 2011 and the IIT Bombay Heritage Foundation from 1999 to 2009.

He received the renowned Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1999, and then in 2019. As part of IIT Bombay’s 57th convocation, Nilekani also received an Honorary Doctorate.