IIT-Bombay alumnus donates Rs 153 crore to set up green energy hub in institute

Calling it a “rare occurrence” in Indian academia that a philanthropist wishes to stay anonymous, Director of the Institute, Prof Subhasis Chaudhuri, said, “We are immensely grateful for the generosity displayed by our alumnus whose significant contribution reaffirms IIT Bombay’s commitment to spearheading innovative solutions for the global climate crisis.”

He continued, “The establishment of this hub underscores our dedication to tackling climate challenges through cutting-edge research, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and nurturing entrepreneurial endeavours.”

According to information provided by the institute, the hub will be located within the state-of-the-art academic building on the IIT Bombay campus. Apart from facilitating research in several critical areas, including, but not limited to, battery technologies, solar photovoltaics, biofuels, clean-air science, flood forecasting, and carbon capture, various focus areas for the hub will include evaluating climate risks and developing effective mitigation strategies, climate change adaptation, and comprehensive environmental monitoring.

The objective of this hub, as the institute elaborated, is to drive practical and transformative solutions while nurturing entrepreneurship in the realm of green energy and sustainability. The hub will also serve as a nexus for learning and exploration, offering state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities for students and researchers alike. It will also offer industry-tailored educational training and cultivate strategic collaborations with global universities and corporations. Additionally, the hub seeks to advance climate solutions, fostering the adoption of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies.

Stating that alumni support has been one of the strongest pillars for the institute’s growth, an official from the institute said, “They have contributed to various causes starting from infrastructural development such as re-building of hostels to redesigning and upgrading of laboratories to projects dedicated toward reproach and development in particular areas among all.”

This included donations by single alumnus such as Rekha and Rizwan Koita from the 1992 batch donating ₹25 crore in 2021 to establish the Koita Centre for Digital Health (KCDH), donation of Rs 15 crore by alumnus of the institute Ashank Desai for the Ashank Desai Centre for Policy Studies which was set up in 2016 among all. Apart from individuals donating the institute has also had great support from entire batches coming together. Recently, the batch of 1997 of the institute pledged Rs 26 crore to its alma mater for legacy projects, whereas the batch of 1995 pledged Rs 21 crore.