IIT Kanpur: InMobi, NoBroker, Yulu Founders Commit Rs 100-Crore for New School
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has received a significant boost from its alumni, particularly the Millennium Batch of 2000. Founders of notable companies such as InMobi, NoBroker, and Yulu have pledged a total of Rs 100 crore to establish a new educational institution at the institute. This initiative aims to create a new school that will focus on technology, policy, ethics, and societal impact.
Overview of the Initiative
The proposed institution, named the Millennium School of Technology and Society (MSTAS), is designed to complement IIT Kanpur’s existing engineering and science programs. It will emphasize interdisciplinary teaching and leadership development, reflecting the growing need for educational institutions to adapt to the complexities of modern society.
The Founders Behind the Initiative
The commitment of Rs 100 crore comes from a group of accomplished entrepreneurs from the Class of 2000, often referred to as the Millennium Batch. This cohort has produced several successful companies and has been instrumental in the growth of the Indian startup ecosystem. Some of the notable founders include:
- Naveen Tewari – Founder of InMobi and Glance
- Amit Kumar Agarwal – Co-founder of NoBroker
- Amit Gupta – Founder of Yulu
These entrepreneurs are not only recognized for their business acumen but also for their commitment to giving back to their alma mater. Tewari, who has personally pledged Rs 30 crore, expressed that this initiative is a way for the batch to contribute to the future of education at IIT Kanpur.
Goals of the Millennium School of Technology and Society
The MSTAS is envisioned to address several key areas:
- Interdisciplinary Education: The school will promote a curriculum that integrates technology with policy and ethics, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges.
- Leadership Development: Emphasis will be placed on nurturing future leaders who can navigate the complexities of technological advancements and their societal implications.
- Societal Impact: The school aims to foster a sense of responsibility among students, encouraging them to consider the societal effects of their work in technology.
Significance of the Initiative
This initiative reflects a broader trend among leading educational institutions to adapt their programs to meet the challenges posed by rapid technological changes. IIT Kanpur’s commitment to building future-ready institutions is crucial in an era where technology intersects with every aspect of society.
The establishment of MSTAS is particularly timely, as it aligns with similar efforts by other prestigious institutions. For instance, earlier in the year, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras launched a Rs 200-crore alumni-backed fund to support early-stage startups emerging from the institute, demonstrating a growing trend of alumni engagement in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Impact on the Startup Ecosystem
The commitment from the Millennium Batch is expected to have a significant impact on the startup ecosystem in India. By establishing a school that focuses on the intersection of technology and society, IIT Kanpur aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled engineers but also socially conscious leaders.
As members of the Millennium Batch have already founded several unicorns, their involvement in this initiative could lead to the emergence of new startups that address pressing societal issues. The focus on ethics and policy in technology education will prepare students to think critically about the implications of their work, potentially leading to more responsible innovation.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Millennium School of Technology and Society at IIT Kanpur marks a significant milestone in the evolution of education in India. With the support of its accomplished alumni, the institute is poised to enhance its programs and prepare future generations for the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The initiative not only underscores the importance of interdisciplinary education but also highlights the role of technology in shaping society.
Note: This article is based on information available as of December 2025 and reflects the ongoing commitment of IIT Kanpur’s alumni to foster innovation and societal impact through education.
