“Discover the historic Rs 228 crore donation to IIT Madras by alumnus Dr. Krishna Chivukula, marking one of India’s largest educational contributions. Learn how this generous gift will support scholarships, research, sports programs, and more, shaping the future of generations at IIT Madras.”

In a landmark event for Indian education, IIT Madras has received its largest single donation ever—an astounding Rs 228 crore—from alumnus Dr. Krishna Chivukula. This generous contribution is one of the largest educational donations in India’s history and marks a significant milestone in the institute’s journey towards academic excellence.

A Historic Contribution

Dr. Krishna Chivukula, a Distinguished Alumnus Awardee of IIT Madras, graduated with an MTech in Aerospace Engineering in 1970 and later obtained an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1980. His illustrious career includes founding two world-leading companies: Shiva Technologies Inc. and Indo MIM Pvt Ltd. Notably, Dr. Chivukula introduced state-of-the-art Metal Injection Molding (MIM) technology to India in 1997. Today, his company, INDO US MIM Tec, is a global leader in MIM technology, with a projected turnover of nearly Rs 1,000 crore.

In recognition of his historic donation, IIT Madras has named an academic block the ‘Krishna Chivukula Block’. The naming ceremony was held on August 6, 2024, with the presence of Dr. Krishna Chivukula, IIT Madras Director Professor V Kamakoti, Dean of Alumni and Corporate Relations Professor Mahesh Panchagnula, and other faculty, researchers, staff, and students.

Utilization of the Donation

The substantial donation will be utilized to support a wide range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the academic and research environment at IIT Madras. Key areas of focus include:

Scholarships for International Students: Providing financial support to attract and retain talented international students, fostering a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Research Excellence Grants: Funding cutting-edge research projects and initiatives that push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.

Undergraduate Fellowship Programme: Offering financial aid to undergraduate students, enabling them to pursue their studies without financial constraints.

Sports Scholar Programme: Supporting student-athletes in balancing their academic and athletic pursuits, promoting a culture of excellence in sports.

Development of the Shaastra Magazine: Enhancing the quality and reach of the institute’s premier magazine, which showcases research, innovations, and achievements.

Maintenance of the Krishna Chivukula Block: Ensuring the infrastructure remains state-of-the-art and conducive to learning and research.

A Legacy of Giving

The remarkable donation from Dr. Krishna Chivukula underscores the enduring bond between IIT Madras and its alumni. Professor V Kamakoti expressed profound gratitude, saying, “That our alumnus still remembers his Alma Mater after several decades reinforces the fact that education is the only immortal wealth that we can give to mankind. Grateful to Shri Krishna Chivukula for his big contribution, which will benefit several future generations of students in their pursuit of knowledge.”

Professor Mahesh Panchagnula lauded Dr. Chivukula’s generosity, stating, “Dr. Krishna Chivukula is not just a successful techno-businessperson but also an ideal alumnus. His humility and generosity will stand as exemplar characteristics for generations of alumni.”

Kaviraj Nair, CEO of the Office of Institutional Advancement, IIT Madras, added, “We are profoundly grateful to Dr. Krishna Chivukula, an esteemed alumnus of IIT Madras, for his extraordinary generosity and unwavering commitment to our institution.”

Record Fundraising by IIT Madras

The donation from Dr. Chivukula comes amidst a record-breaking year for IIT Madras in terms of fundraising. The institute raised an unprecedented Rs 513 crore during the financial year 2023–24, marking a 135% increase from the previous year. This impressive achievement was made possible through contributions from alumni, individual philanthropists, CSR funds, and grants from corporate firms. Notably, the total amount raised through alumni alone was Rs 367 crore, representing a 282% increase from the previous year.

Dr. Krishna Chivukula’s monumental donation to IIT Madras exemplifies the transformative power of philanthropy in education. It sets a new benchmark for alumni contributions and highlights the vital role that successful individuals can play in advancing educational institutions and shaping the future of generations to come. This historic donation will undoubtedly pave the way for IIT Madras to continue its legacy of excellence and innovation.