Priyanka Tiwari
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Binny Bansal, co-founder of Flipkart and software firm Xto10x, has donated ₹70 crore to set up the Binny Bansal Institute for Inventing the Future (IIF) at Plaksha University in Mohali. The institute aims to harness advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and robotics to build scalable solutions for critical sectors including healthcare, agriculture, energy, and sustainability.
Focus on Real-World Impact Through Technology
The new research center will also explore AI-powered applications across biotechnology, climate science, and fintech. It will offer mentorship and training programs to develop India’s future tech talent and close the current skill gap in emerging technologies.
Speaking about the initiative, Bansal said, “This institute reflects my belief that frontier technologies can radically improve lives. From healthcare to clean energy, I look forward to seeing scalable innovations emerge here.”
Global Collaboration with UC Berkeley’s BAIR Lab
Plaksha University will collaborate with the University of California, Berkeley, and its Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) Lab. The partnership will include joint research projects, AI education programs, and faculty and student exchange initiatives.
Prof. Shankar Sastry, Founding Chancellor of Plaksha University, noted, “This institute will be a hub for interdisciplinary research, integrating societal considerations into innovation. Our collaboration with Berkeley will bring global perspective and deep-tech expertise to India.”
Backed by Industry Leaders and Corporations
Founded in 2021, Plaksha University is supported by influential figures in tech and business, including:
Neeraj Aggarwal (BCG)
Rakesh Bharti Mittal (Bharti Enterprises)
Hitesh Oberoi (Info Edge)
Srikanth Velamakanni (Fractal Analytics)
Sujeet Kumar (Udaan)
Dalip Pathak (Warburg Pincus)
CP Gurnani (former Tech Mahindra CEO)
Pramod Bhasin (Clix Capital)
Corporate donors include Bharti Foundation, Havells, HT Parekh Foundation, Mphasis, Axis Bank, and Motilal Oswal.
The new institute follows Plaksha's previous launch of the Info Edge Center for Entrepreneurship, which focuses on mentorship and startup incubation for students.
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