India’s industrial titan and Reliance Industries Chairman, "Mukesh Ambani", has once again taken a historic step to boost scientific research in India. On June 7, 2025, he announced a "₹500 crore donation" to Mumbai’s "Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT)". This marks the 'largest private donation ever' to an Indian academic institution, dedicated to advancing green energy, climate technology, and hydrogen fuel research.
Why This Donation Matters
ICT Mumbai (formerly UDCT) has long been India’s premier hub for chemical engineering research. Ambani’s donation specifically targets "Reliance’s "Net Zero Carbon Mission", aligning with its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. The funds will accelerate breakthroughs in:
1. "Green Hydrogen Production:" Cutting costs of solar-powered hydrogen fuel.
2. "Biodegradable Plastics:" Developing sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics.
3. "Carbon Capture Technology:" Innovating methods to recycle CO2 emissions from industries.
The Ambani-ICT Legacy
Mukesh Ambani’s father, "Dhirubhai Ambani", was an ICT alumnus who laid Reliance’s foundation through petrochemical expertise gained here. Mukesh called this initiative "a tribute to my father and an investment in India’s future". ICT Director Prof. Aniruddha Pandit stated: "This funding will propel us into the world’s top 10 research institutes."
From Labs to Real-World Impact
- Jobs: 200+ research scholars will receive direct opportunities.
- "Startup Ecosystem:" ICT’s new "Green Innovation Lab" will help students prototype sustainable solutions.
- "Global Partnerships:" Joint projects launched with MIT (USA) and Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute.
"Startup Ecosystem:" ICT’s new "Green Innovation Lab" will help students prototype sustainable solutions.
- "Global Partnerships:" Joint projects launched with MIT (USA) and Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute.
Addressing Critics: Independence Concerns
Some experts warn that growing corporate influence in academia could compromise research "independence". However, ICT guarantees all findings will be "open-access", with transparent IPR policies ensuring unbiased outcomes.
The Bigger Picture: A Model for India
Ambani’s move sets a template for private-academic partnerships. As climate change escalates, India needs homegrown tech revolutions. Echoing PM Narendra Modi’s vision — "Green energy is key to self-reliance" — ICT’s initiative is a decisive step toward sustainability.