Infosys’ Big Boss Nandan Nilekani Pumps Rs 315 Crores into Beloved IIT Bombay, Honouring 50 Years of Lifelong Bond
A Landmark Contribution from a Beloved Alumnus
Nandan Nilekani, the renowned co-founder and Chairman of Infosys, has accomplished a remarkable act of generosity by making a staggering contribution of Rs 315 crore to his beloved alma mater, IIT Bombay, commemorating an extraordinary 50-year connection with the esteemed institution. Can you believe it? Nilekani’s association with the institute began in 1973, when he embarked on a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Talk about an enduring bond!
How the Donation Will Be Used
The donation will be utilised for constructing infrastructure, fostering research in emerging fields of engineering and technology, and cultivating a thriving deep-tech start-up ecosystem at IIT Bombay. Additionally, this contribution is expected to serve as the cornerstone for IIT Bombay’s ambitious vision of becoming a global leader among engineering and technology institutes.
Mr. Nilekani and Subhasis Chaudhuri, director of IIT Bombay, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Bengaluru on 20th June 2023.
“IIT Bombay has played a pivotal role in my life, shaping my formative years, and laying the foundation for my journey. This donation goes beyond mere financial assistance. 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,” expressed Mr. Nilekani. Source: TheHindu.com
Mr. Chaudhuri added,
“This donation will significantly accelerate the growth of IIT Bombay and firmly establish its path to global leadership. IIT Bombay is dedicated to fostering research and academic excellence that can position India as a leader in scientific discoveries and their application to address pressing challenges faced by humanity.” Source: TheHindu.com
Nilekani’s Longstanding Connection with IIT Bombay
Over the years, Nilekani has contributed in multiple ways. He served on the board of the IIT Bombay Heritage Foundation (1999–2009) and was a Board of Governors member (2005–2011). His earlier donation of Rs 85 crore helped construct hostels, co-finance the School of Information Technology, and establish India’s first university incubator. This initiative significantly boosted the Indian start-up ecosystem.
He received the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1999 and an Honorary Doctorate in 2019 during IIT Bombay’s 57th convocation. Nilekani also played a key role in founding the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE), fostering entrepreneurship at the institute.
Timeline: Nandan Nilekani’s Career Highlights
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1978: Joins IIT Bombay to study electrical engineering
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1981: Graduates and joins Patni Computer Systems in Mumbai
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1989: Co-founds Infosys Technologies Limited with Narayana Murthy and others
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2002–2007: Serves as CEO of Infosys
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2004: Leads Infosys’ IPO in India
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2007: Becomes Co-Chairman of Infosys Board
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2009: Appointed Chairman of UIDAI, implementing Aadhaar
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2014: Contests Indian general elections; does not win
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2017: Returns as non-executive Chairman of Infosys Board
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2020: Plays a key role in the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)
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