New York: In a landmark move to deepen India–US academic engagement and global leadership, O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) launched the Motwani Jadeja Institute for American Studies (MJIAS) at a high-profile event in New York.

The occasion also saw the release of the JGU Sustainable Development Report 2025 and a Distinguished Public Lecture by eminent Indian and global figures, showcasing the university’s multidimensional vision of education, diplomacy, and innovation.

MJIAS is a transformative new centre that will advance research, public policy, education, innovation, and cultural exchange between India and the United States. The Institute has been established through a generous endowment from the Motwani Jadeja Foundation, led by Silicon Valley-based philanthropist and venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani.

A Visionary Academic Collaboration

Named in honour of Professor Rajeev Motwani, a legendary computer scientist and mentor to Google’s founders, the Institute seeks to honour his legacy of innovation and impact.

In his welcome address, JGU Founding Vice Chancellor Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar called MJIAS “a powerful symbol of academic diplomacy that honours scientific excellence and builds intellectual bridges between nations.”

He added: “MJIAS is not just an academic institute—it is an affirmation of our belief that universities must catalyse global transformation. At a time of global uncertainty, we need platforms that nurture critical inquiry, uphold freedom and democracy, and prepare students as public intellectuals. This is a tribute to Rajeev Motwani’s brilliance and Asha Jadeja’s visionary philanthropy. The Institute will connect India and the US, technology and humanities, and most importantly, ideas and action.”

Empowering the Future

Delivering the Foundational Address, Asha Jadeja Motwani emphasized building ecosystems that empower changemakers, especially across the Global South. She remarked: “We are at an inflection point in human history. The technological revolution requires ethical, empathetic, interdisciplinary leadership. MJIAS honours Rajeev’s vision to democratize innovation and knowledge.”

She added: “This is a space for young leaders from India and the US to collaborate, question, and co-create. We are building a platform for dialogue, fearless experimentation, and global partnerships. My hope is for MJIAS to become a lighthouse for South–North partnerships and a hub of intellectual and entrepreneurial energy.”

She also announced key initiatives under MJIAS, including India–US student fellowships, start-up accelerators, and visiting professorships to facilitate academic exchange.