Speaking at the annual convocation on July 30, Gururaj Deshpande made the announcement about his gift. Deshpande who graduated from IIT-Madras with a degree in Electrical Engineering has contributed to the university before. During his keynote address he said, "As government funding to the IITs decrease, it is incumbent upon us (the alumni) to support the institution. Former students have an obligation to help coming generations."

He pointed out that contributions to education in the country would increase the country's fortune. He stressed the need for collaboration of IITs with the industry as well as with other educational institutions across the country.

Sycamore Networks is in the forefront of the optical networking technology. Deshpande like a few others has shared his well-earned financial success with his alma mater. Indian Universities have nurtured many a millionaire and hope to receive support from their alumni.

Have you ever thought what you can offer to your alma mater? They are not always looking for millions, every little helps.

- nriol.com report