IITM alumnus gifts Rs 5 crore to upgrade college hostel

Hyderabad: Alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) Dr Krishna Chivukula, founder-Chairman, INDO US MIM TEC Private Ltd, has donated Rs. Five crore towards the renovation of the campus hostels and to augment existing maintenance facilities.

His generosity will be used to renovate the Cauvery hostel, the first hostel to be constructed in IIT Madras, and elevate it to world-class standards for the convenience of students.

An initial amount of Rs. 2.5 crore has already been handed over to refurbish Cauvery Hostel. Thanking the donor, and his concern for students, Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, Dean (International and Alumni Relations), IIT Madras, said, “Alumni-Giving at IIT Madras has made a huge difference to several key initiatives. We are very grateful to Dr Chivukula, who has come forward to support this very important requirement on our campus.”

The contribution, which was part of the Institute’s #KeepItFlowing campaign to support hostels, will help the Institute to undertake facelift works in restrooms, including water0proofing, façade improvements to the main entrance, the corridor and staircase, painting, shoe-rack fixing, gardening, development of playfields and cycle stands.

Expressing happiness at being able to give something back to ‘wonderful institution’, Dr Krishna Chivukula said, "IIT Madras gave me world-class education at literally ‘zero cost.’ This led to admission in Harvard Business School, which in turn led to my being successful in life. I am delighted to be able to give back to the Institution that provided a solid foundation to my career path. I sincerely urge my fellow IITians to experience the joy that I experienced!"

Mr R. Aswanth, Student General Secretary, Cauvery Hostel, said, “This funding will not only augment the facilities at the hostel but also satisfy parents of hostellers. These funds will be used in improving all facilities while maintaining the aesthetics and a student-friendly environment.”