Dr. Krishna Chivukula, an esteemed alumnus of IIT Madras, has made an unprecedented donation of ₹288 crores to his alma mater. This substantial contribution stands as one of the largest ever received by an educational institution in India and promises to bring transformative changes to the campus.
Funding for Diverse Initiatives
The donation will be utilised for a variety of initiatives at IIT Madras, including:
- Scholarships for International Students: Enhancing opportunities for global talent.
- Research Excellence Grant: Supporting groundbreaking research.
- Undergraduate Fellowship Program: Providing financial aid to deserving undergraduates.
- Sports Scholarship Program: Encouraging athletic talent.
- Development of Shastra Magazine: Promoting academic and cultural activities.
- Maintenance of Krishna Chivukula Block: Honouring Dr. Chivukula’s contributions.
A Remarkable Career
Dr. Krishna Chivukula, who completed his M.Tech in Aerospace Engineering at IIT Madras in 1970, has achieved notable success in the tech industry. He is the founder of Shiva Technologies Inc. and Indo MIM Pvt. Ltd., with Indo US MIM Tech leading globally in Metal Injection Molding (MIM) technology, boasting a turnover of around ₹1000 crores.
Recognition and Impact
At a press conference, IIT Madras Director Professor V. Kamakoti remarked on the significance of the donation, emphasising the timeless value of education. Dr. Krishna Chivukula himself reflected on the profound impact of his IIT Madras education on his life and success, highlighting the importance of giving back.
Inspiration for Future Alumni
Professor Mahesh Panchagnula, Dean (Alumni & Corporate Relations) at IIT Madras, commended Dr.Krishna Chivukula’s humility and generosity, noting that his example will inspire future alumni to contribute to their institutions.
Record-Breaking Fundraising Year
In the financial year 2023-24, IIT Madras set a record with a fundraising total of ₹513 crores, a 135% increase from the previous year. This achievement underscores the growing trend of philanthropic support for educational institutions.
Dr. Krishna Chivukula’s transformative donation not only cements his place in IIT Madras’s history but also highlights the enduring impact of educational philanthropy.