The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has received a major boost to its academic and developmental ambitions with a donation of more than $86,000 (around ₹75 lakh) from US-based philanthropists Satish Agarwal and Kamlesh Agrawal.

The contribution will establish the Satish and Kamlesh Agrawal Charitable Fund, a long-term endowment aimed at strengthening the institute’s academic ecosystem.

A sustainable fund to fuel scholarships, research and infrastructure

Designed as a permanent endowment, the fund will support an array of initiatives — from student scholarships and research projects to faculty and student travel, smart classrooms and broader infrastructure development.

IIT Mandi clarified that only up to 90% of the annual interest generated will be utilised, ensuring that the principal corpus remains untouched to guarantee sustainability.

A dedicated Execution Committee comprising institute faculty will oversee how the funds are allocated, which projects are selected and how future reinvestment decisions are made.

Transparent philanthropy, seamless transfer

The collaboration was facilitated through the IIT Roorkee Foundation (IITRF), USA. In a rare gesture of complete transparency, the IITRF Board transferred the entire donation without deducting administrative expenses, with board members personally covering operational costs.

‘A model for long-term impact’

IIT Mandi Director Prof. Laxmidhar Behera expressed gratitude to the donors, calling the initiative a significant contribution toward nurturing innovation and higher education. Prof. Varun Dutt, Dean of Resource Generation and Alumni Relations, said the fund represents a sustainable philanthropic model capable of supporting academic excellence for years to come.

Donor Satish Agrawal said the contribution was made to advance education, research and community-focused development at IIT Mandi — a commitment the institute says will bolster its long-term academic vision and infrastructural ambitions.