Bengaluru: Narayana Murthy, founder of Infosys and pioneer of India’s IT revolution, has committed ₹12 crore to fund the ‘Prof Jaswant G Krishnayya Merit Scholarship’ at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA).
The 20-year inflation-adjusted scholarship pays tribute to Murthy’s mentor and former IIMA faculty member, while supporting the academic ambitions of India’s brightest minds.
Prof Jaswant G Krishnayya Merit Scholarship
The full-ride scholarship will annually cover tuition fees, hostel accommodation, mess charges, and academic materials for the top-ranking first-year student in IIMA’s flagship Post Graduate Programme (PGP). The Prof Jaswant G Krishnayya Merit Scholarship is expected to benefit 20 students over two decades, fostering merit-based access to India’s premier management education.
“This is more than just a scholarship—it is a tribute,” said Narayana Murthy. “Professor Krishnayya profoundly influenced my early years. I hope this initiative inspires students to pursue excellence and create meaningful impact in the world.”
A Legacy of Learning and Leadership
Murthy’s association with IIMA began in 1969 when he served as Chief Systems Programmer, and later deepened when he led the institute as Chairman from 2002 to 2007. The scholarship commemorates his enduring relationship with the institute and his long-standing admiration for Professor Jaswant G Krishnayya, a revered academician and mentor.
Pankaj Patel, Chairperson, IIMA Board of Governors and Chairman of Zydus Lifesciences, noted: “This scholarship highlights Mr. Murthy’s lifelong connection with IIMA and his commitment to education as a transformative force.”
Prof. Bharat Bhasker, Director, IIMA, added: “This is a celebration of mentorship, excellence, and impact. We’re grateful to Mr. Murthy for honouring Professor Krishnayya’s legacy and supporting IIMA’s vision of access and excellence.”
Role of IIMA Endowment Fund
The Prof Jaswant G Krishnayya Merit Scholarship initiative was facilitated by the IIMA Endowment Fund (IIMAEF), the institute’s dedicated platform for alumni and philanthropic engagement. The fund plays a key role in ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent promising talent from accessing world-class education at IIMA.
This partnership strengthens IIMA’s global positioning as a centre of thought leadership and sets a benchmark for philanthropy-led academic empowerment in India.
