Nandan Nilekani - A Lifestory
Infosys Cofounder: Building India'S Future, One Technology Innovation At A Time
Nandan Nilekani is a prominent Indian entrepreneur, bureaucrat, and philanthropist, best known for his pivotal role in building Infosys and his leadership in the Aadhaar project. Born on June 2, 1955, in Bangalore, India, Nilekani received his education from Bishop Cotton Boys' School and later graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. His career took off at Infosys, which he cofounded in 1981 with six other entrepreneurs. He served as the company's CEO from 2002 to 2007, during which time he significantly contributed to its growth and global expansion, establishing Infosys as a leading IT services provider.
Following his successful tenure at Infosys, Nilekani transitioned to public service. In 2009, he was appointed as the Chairman of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), a government body tasked with implementing the Aadhaar project, a nationwide biometric identification system. As Chairman, he spearheaded the development and rollout of Aadhaar, aiming to provide a unique identity to every Indian resident and facilitate efficient delivery of government services. His work on Aadhaar has been recognized for its impact on financial inclusion and social welfare programs.
Beyond his professional achievements, Nilekani is also a respected author and philanthropist. He coauthored the book "Imagining India: The Idea of a Renewed Nation," which explores the challenges and opportunities facing India in the 21st century. He has also been actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, focusing on education, healthcare, and urban development through the Nilekani Philanthropies. His contributions to technology, business, and public service have earned him numerous accolades and solidified his position as a highly influential figure in India.
