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Press Release: With Support from RNP, ALT EFF Launches India’s Largest Environmental Film Fund

Applications now open for filmmakers across India; three selected projects to receive grants. 

Supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP), the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF) has officially announced the launch of the ALT EFF Film Fund, a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening climate and environmental storytelling in India.

The fund, amounting to 1.2 Crores, will support three environmental documentary films with grants, making it one of the largest environmental film funds in the country. The initiative is designed to support compelling, resonant stories that explore the theme of Coexistence, examining the evolving relationships between humans, wildlife, ecology, and climate realities across the country.

The initiative will work closely with leading documentary platforms Greenstories and DocedgeKolkata to identify and nurture projects through intensive labs, mentorship forums, and pitching sessions before the final three grantees are selected.

Applications for the fund are currently open through Greenstories, and filmmakers from across India can apply until 30th June 2026; another round led by DocedgeKolkata will open on November 1st 2026 and will close on 10th December 2026. 

Beyond production financing, the fund will offer selected filmmakers access to mentorship, impact campaign support, story development guidance, and distribution pathways through ALT EFF’s growing network of international filmmakers, impact strategists, and documentary platforms. The fund will specifically encourage stories from underrepresented regions, Tier-2 cities, and communities whose voices have traditionally remained outside mainstream environmental cinema. It will also support projects across different stages of documentary filmmaking, including development and production.

As part of the initiative, selected films will also receive support for impact campaigns designed to take stories beyond traditional audiences through community screenings, educational outreach, NGO collaborations, policy engagement, and digital amplification. Over the last six years, ALT EFF has established itself as one of India’s leading platforms for environmental cinema, curating over 360 environmental films from more than 60 countries and engaging audiences across hundreds of community screenings and live events.

Talking about the importance of storytelling, Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson – Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies said, “For many years, my philanthropy has supported organisations working on human-wildlife coexistence, and we have learned that communities across India have long found ways to live alongside nature. Indian mythology, too, reminds us that humans and animals are deeply interconnected, and that coexistence is an ancient cultural memory. At a time of ecological crisis, we need stories that help people reconnect with the natural world and with each other. Through the RNP x ALT EFF Environment Film Fund, we hope to support storytelling that inspires empathy, understanding, and a shared ecological future — because to conserve and protect, we must first learn to observe and love.”

Speaking about the launch, Kunal Khanna, Co-Founder and Festival Director of the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival, said: “India has some of the most urgent, layered, and emotionally powerful environmental stories in the world, but filmmakers often lack the long-term support systems needed to bring these stories to life at a global level. Through the ALT EFF Environmental Film Fund, we want to build an ecosystem for climate storytelling in India — one that nurtures filmmakers from development to distribution and helps important stories travel far beyond festival spaces.”

As part of the initiative, selected films will also receive support for impact campaigns designed to take stories beyond traditional audiences through community screenings, educational outreach, NGO collaborations, policy engagement, and digital amplification. Over the last six years, ALT EFF has established itself as one of India’s leading platforms for environmental cinema, curating over 360 environmental films from more than 60 countries and engaging audiences across hundreds of community screenings and live events. 

Filmmakers interested in applying for the ALT EFF Environmental Film Fund can submit their applications before the end of June 2026.

Link to the Film Fund: https://www.alteff.in/film-fund

Press Release | Launching the Samvardhan Biodiversity & Conservation Fellowship

Empowering India’s Next Generation of Conservationists: Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and Dasra Announce Applications for the Samvardhan Biodiversity & Conservation Fellowship

  • Open to early-career conservation practitioners from across India, especially those from grassroots backgrounds
  • A 12-month fellowship offering financial support, mentorship, and peer learning for the next generation of conservation leaders
  • Register and apply at https://samvardhan.dasra.org/

May 25, 2026: Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP), in partnership with Dasra, has announced the commencement of registrations for the Samvardhan Biodiversity & Conservation Fellowship, designed to support emerging conservation leaders. Co-curated by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and Dasra, and seed-funded by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, this inaugural 12-month fellowship will provide comprehensive support to emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underrepresented geographies and non-elite institutions.

The fellowship aims to address the unique barriers faced by early-career conservationists, including limited access to mentorship, financial resources, and professional networks. By providing seed grants, mentorship, and peer learning, the fellowship aspires to equip a new generation of conservation leaders to strengthen India’s biodiversity and conservation ecosystem.

WHO CAN APPLY?

  • Early-career conservation researchers and practitioners under 35 years of age.
  • Individuals engaged in public-interest conservation in research, community work, or related fields.
  • Applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, grassroots communities, and underrepresented regions across India.
  • Applicants can apply through: https://samvardhan.dasra.org/

“Some of the most important conservation work in India is happening quietly, far from visibility and formal recognition. Young practitioners working closely with communities and ecosystems often have deep knowledge and commitment, but very little support. The Samvardhan Fellowship is built on a simple belief: that people doing this work deserve trust, time, and the freedom to ask difficult questions, explore new pathways, and grow within a community of peers. If we want more resilient and inclusive conservation pathways, we must invest not just in projects, but also in young people, relationships, and long-term learning.” said Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.

Core Components of the Fellowship

The Samvardhan Fellowship is designed as a learning, mentorship, and practice-support platform for emerging conservation practitioners, through three key components:

  1. Seed Grant of₹3 Lakh for practice-led or exploratory conservation work.
  2. Mentorship from conservation experts and access to a diverse Community of Championsthroughout the year. Fellows will also have regular check-inswith mentors and additional support sessions.
  3. Peer Learning and Community Building, through cohort activities, knowledge sessions, and skill-building workshops,ensuring Fellows can learn from each other and grow together.

“The future of conservation in India depends on whether our young practitioners are supported to lead through the complexity of systems of change.  The Samvardhan Fellowship is part of Dasra’s mission to strengthen and diversify the ecosystem of philanthropic leadership.” said Neera Nundy, Co-founder & Partner, Dasra.

For more information, visit https://samvardhan.dasra.org/

Press Release | Supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, a New Public Observation Tower Project Planned at Bannerughatta Biological Park, Bengaluru

Through a grant of INR 5 Crore, the project aims to enhance visitor experience and increase conservation awareness, and visitor engagement 

Bengaluru, March 24, 2026 — Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNPF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bannerughatta Biological Park (BBP), a unit of the Zoo Authority of Karnataka, Government of Karnataka, to support the development of a 25-meter-high Public Observation Tower at the Zoo premises.

With a committed grant of INR 5 Crore, this partnership aims to enhance nature-based learning, strengthen conservation awareness, and improve visitor experience at one of India’s most prominent wildlife and eco-tourism destinations.

Bannerughatta Biological Park attracts over 2.2 million visitors annually and plays a critical role in Ex-situ conservation, rescue, and public education. The proposed Observation Tower will serve as an iconic new addition, offering panoramic views of the forested valley of Bannerughatta National Park and the Bengaluru skyline, while enabling safe and regulated wildlife observation.

Designed to accommodate 50–70 visitors at a time, the structure will integrate sustainability features such as solar energy systems and rainwater harvesting, reinforcing BBP’s commitment to environmentally responsible infrastructure.

“Public institutions like Bannerughatta Biological Park are important spaces where people can connect with nature—not just as spectators, but as students and eventually as trustees of our amazing biodiversity. As our everyday connection with the natural world weakens, we need to rebuild it through shared experiences, access, and storytelling. I hope the observation tower will awaken curiosity and awe, because it is often this sense of wonder that leads to caring for the environment”, said Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson – Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. 

The initiative will also include educational features, such as conservation-focused content and thoughtfully designed visitor experiences. Along with supporting conservation and learning, the project is expected to promote sustainable tourism and create opportunities for local livelihoods.

Commenting on the plan, Sri A V Surya Sen, IFS – Deputy Conservator of Forests and Executive Director, Bannerughatta Biological Park, said: “This partnership marks a significant step in strengthening our commitment to conservation, education, and sustainable tourism. The proposed Observation Tower will not only enhance visitor experience through immersive nature-based learning but also stand as a symbol of our dedication to environmentally responsible infrastructure. With this support from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, we are further empowered to inspire millions of visitors towards wildlife conservation while safeguarding our natural heritage.”

Illustrative Rendering of the Proposed Observation Tower (subject to change during design development and approvals)

About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies

Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNPF) is a grant-making organisation that creates and strengthens communities for their own betterment. RNPF supports ground-breaking work at the intersection of Samaaj, Sarkaar, and Bazaar, focusing on civic engagement, access to justice, gender equity, mental health, and climate & environment. Founded by philanthropist Rohini Nilekani, who currently serves as Chairperson, Rohini and her husband, Nandan Nilekani, are signatories to the Giving Pledge. To know more: www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org.

About Bannerughatta Biological Park

Bannerughatta Biological Park, Bengaluru (BBP), a unit of Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK), Government of Karnataka (GoK), is a globally accredited organization situated in Bengaluru, which is one among the few places in the world where wilderness is preserved close to a big city.

BBP has four different units, such as Zoo, Safari, Butterfly Park, and Rescue Center, created within an area of 731.88 Ha. In total, there are 2194 individual animals across 100 species.

The main objective of the zoo, as per the National Zoo Policy 1998, is to complement and strengthen the national efforts in conservation of the rich biodiversity of the country, particularly wild fauna, through Ex-situ conservation, education, research, conservation breeding, rescue, and rehabilitation. In BBBP, the physical, psychological, and biological needs of the animals have been maintained at high standards.

BBP has been a self-sustaining organization with the main source of income from visitor entry tickets to the park, with an average of 22 lakhs visitors annually.

 

Press Release | As Climate Disasters Become the New Normal, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies Releases a New Study that Calls for a Shift from Relief-Centric Response to Community-Led Resilience in India

Study underscores India’s escalating climate disasters and calls for long-term investments in community-led resilience

Feb 17, 2026 | Mumbai, India –  Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP) today released a comprehensive new study titled ‘Resilience: Moving Beyond Surviving Climate Disasters to Supporting Communities to Thrive’, calling for a shift in how India approaches disaster preparedness and climate impacts — from short-term, reactive relief to long-term, proactive resilience building.

Produced in collaboration with Dalberg Advisors, the report shows that climate disasters are now a ‘new normal’ in India. Floods, droughts, cyclones, and heatwaves are happening more often, affecting most districts and disrupting people’s lives, livelihoods, and essential services. With annual economic losses from climate disasters already estimated at USD 12 billion and projected to rise as events grow more frequent and severe, the report argues that incremental improvements will no longer suffice. Today, 85% of India’s districts are exposed to floods, droughts, or cyclones, and in 2023, the country experienced extreme weather on 86% of days, underscoring how frequent and widespread these disruptions have become. More than 1.8 million hectares of cropland and over 80,000 homes were damaged in 2023 alone, signalling deep and recurring economic disruption.

The study adopted a three-pronged approach to understand the current state of disaster resilience, including extensive desk research, field visits, and learning circles & one-on-one interviews with leading experts and practitioners. The findings reaffirm that the disproportionate burden of climate disasters is borne by vulnerable groups – women, children, smallholder farmers, and low-income households- with studies indicating that it takes ~19 years for poor households to recover from a major climate shock.

The study also recognises that India has made remarkable progress in saving lives through anticipatory evacuations, rapid relief mobilisation, and stronger disaster response systems — with states like Odisha and Kerala demonstrating how preparedness and community engagement can reduce mortality.

The report makes a strong case that how communities experience, recover from, and rebuild after disasters will be central to India’s development ambitions and long-term well-being. It underscores that disaster response must now evolve into sustained resilience-building, equipping communities not just to withstand crises, but to recover faster, adapt, and thrive in a changing climate.

Speaking about the urgent need for attention to resilience building, Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson – Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, said, “If we continue to focus only on response, we will remain trapped in cycles of relief. Disasters are not waiting to happen; they are already happening routinely yet unobserved in people’s lives. We need to rethink a roadmap where communities are not passive recipients of aid but architects of their own recovery and future- grounded in agency, equity, and dignity.”

 

The study outlines five interdependent forms of capital: physical, financial, human, social, and natural, as the foundation of sustainable community resilience. It calls for investments in last-mile early warning systems, flexible and timely financing, ecosystem restoration, livelihood diversification, and strengthening local institutions and trust networks. Crucially, it emphasises that resilience must be built with communities, shifting decision-making, design, and resources closer to those most affected. It further outlines actionable pathways for governments, civil society, and philanthropies to build and support innovation and sustainable programmes to embed climate resilience.

The report was launched at the Mumbai Climate Week at a closed-door event co-hosted by The India Climate Collaborative and Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. Shloka Nath, Executive Director, India Climate Collaborative, shared, “India’s climate action is increasingly anchored in responsibility to people, communities, and ecosystems. Yet our response remains overly emergency-led, normalising loss instead of investing in long-term resilience. Climate leadership now demands a shift, one where government, philanthropy, and civil society work together to make risk adaptation a sustained priority. Philanthropy has a critical role to play through flexible, patient capital that backs grounded solutions, strengthens local institutions, and ensures people are never reduced to nameless casualties in a climate-shaped future”.

About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies

Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP) supports work that expands learning, strengthens democracy, and fosters climate resilience in India. Through strategic grants, research, convenings, and long-term partnerships with civil society, government, and community stakeholders, RNP seeks to catalyse systemic change and improve the quality of life for marginalised communities across the country.

For more information on the study and RNP, visit rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org

Downloadable link to the report: Click Here

Press Release : Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, Dalberg Advisors and Ashoka Changemakers launch landscape study on Ageing and Longevity in India

The report takes stock of the latest data, programs and narratives on aging in India, and hopes to catalyze action in the longevity space, through recommendations made for civil society organizations, policy makers, and philanthropy. 

 

Bengaluru, India, May 27th, 2025: Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies launches an all-inclusive report on aging and longevity in India. Produced in collaboration with Dalberg Advisors and Ashoka Changemakers, the report “Longevity: A New Way of Understanding Ageing”, seeks to reshape the narrative around aging through a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach – not just longer lives, but better ones.

 

The report has been built off of interactions with leading expert organisations over ten months, allowing the capturing of diverse perspectives on longevity, its ideal approach, gaps in the ecosystem, and opportunities for intervention. The learnings from these organisations which include, Carers Worldwide, WisdomCircle, Vayah Vikas, Silver Talkies, HelpAge India, Nightingale Medical Trust, AARP, GreyShades, Happy2Age, St. John’s Hospital, Tata Trusts, Khyaal, Agewell Foundation, and One Billion Literates Foundation, have been further supplemented with interviews with over 15 other experts in the field.

 

Secondary data analysis has strengthened the report with key trends, models the socio-economic impact of inaction, and projects the benefits of enabling older adults to lead empowered lives. 


In 2023-24, older adults contributed USD 68 billion in labor income, accounting for more than 3% of India’s GDP. Annually, they dedicate approximately 14 billion hours to caregiving within their families and an estimated 2.6 billion hours to community-building activities. Findings indicate that if older adults in India who wish to remain in the workforce were to re-enter the labor market, the country’s GDP could potentially increase by 1.5%.

 

Four dimensions shape the report’s exploration of longevity, based on the needs of older adults: economic security, health and well-being, freedom to participate, and social connectedness.

 

The report highlights three pivotal priorities for Samaaj Innovators and philanthropies to advance the longevity agenda. These include embedding longevity into societal consciousness as a shared mission, fostering groundbreaking ideas to improve older adults’ quality of life, and addressing systemic gaps in data, capacity, and collaboration to enable deeper, scalable change. 

 

Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies comments, “By 2047, India will have 300 million older adults, and we will need much better structures for providing care and support to millions of people. Yet, older adults are not a homogenous, frail group. The elderly are also a seat of value. Can India take the lead in redefining what it means to be an older adult? Can we do it in time for the seismic shift in our demographics? Private philanthropy is critical to kickstart the multi-sectoral innovation we need to squarely and fairly address the issues that will arise with an ageing population. It’s my hope that this report will spur deeper public discourse on an issue that concerns us all.”

 

Swetha Totapally, Regional Director, Asia Pacific at Dalberg, says, “One of our most important findings is that there is already a whole ecosystem of Samaaj innovators who are rewriting the script of what it means to be an older adult in India. These organizations are creating a deeper understanding of older adults’ – and their families’ – lived realities, advancing important policies, developing new models for care, and supporting older adults to live life on their own terms. Given the rapid shift in our demographics, this is an opportune moment to learn from, support and help accelerate their efforts. By shifting our understanding of aging, we hope this report also helps spark a shift in how we build toward Viksit Bharat.”

 

Maria Clara Pinheiro, Ashoka’s New Longevity Co-Leader, shares, “This study has been invaluable in helping us learn from the ecosystem about the vast opportunities in longevity in India. One of the most powerful insights has been the chance to shift the narrative around lifelong contribution — recognizing that everyone, at any age, can remain active, engaged, and make a meaningful impact in society. As our demographics shift, it’s crucial for philanthropists, corporations, and governments to invest in the development of this growing field, ensuring that people of all ages can thrive and contribute.”

 

Access the full report here: https://samaaj.io/4iiGkmc

 

About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies

Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies is a grant-making organisation dedicated to creating and strengthening communities for their betterment. Founded by philanthropist Rohini Nilekani, the foundation supports transformative initiatives focused on civic engagement, access to justice, gender equity, mental health, and environmental sustainability. Rohini and her husband, Nandan Nilekani, are signatories to the Giving Pledge, committing to donate half of their wealth to philanthropic causes.

For more information, visit – www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org

 

About Dalberg Advisors

Dalberg Advisors is a strategic advisory firm that combines the best of private sector strategy skills and rigorous analytical capabilities with deep knowledge and networks across emerging and frontier markets. We work collaboratively across the public, private and philanthropic sectors to fuel inclusive growth and help clients achieve their goals. Our global perspectives are firmly rooted in local realities. We have 28 offices across the world and have served clients in more than 135 countries. By combining local knowledge and international experience, our strategies blend the best global ideas and innovations with the local practicalities and partnerships needed for effective implementation. Dalberg Advisors is part of the Dalberg Group which comprises six businesses — Dalberg Advisors, Dalberg Data Insights, Dalberg Design, Dalberg Implement, Dalberg Media, and Dalberg Research — and a not-for- profit, Dalberg Catalyst.

For more information, visit – https://dalberg.com/

 

About Ashoka Changemakers

Ashoka is the world’s largest network of social entrepreneurs. For over 40 years, it has been at the forefront of transformative impact – identifying systems, changing social innovators and accelerating their ideas to build more equitable and just communities worldwide. Ashoka envisions a world where everyone is a changemaker—where individuals embrace their power, develop the skills to solve problems, and activate others to lead and thrive. Together, changemakers are shaping a society that enables everyone to create positive change for the greater good.

For more information, visit – https://www.ashoka.org/en-us/program/ashoka-changemakers

Press Release | Mannotsava Kicks Off in Bengaluru, Championing Mental Health Conversations

Bengaluru, October 26, 2024: Mannotsava, the National Mental Health Festival 2024, co-hosted by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP), the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), and the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), was inaugurated today in the presence of Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson – Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies; Dr Pratima Murthy, Director – NIMHANS and Prof LS Shashidhara, Centre Director – National Centre for Biological Sciences. This landmark festival scheduled between today and tomorrow (October 26 & 27, 2024) aims to elevate mental health conversations across India, bringing together experts, artists, and communities to combat stigma and foster awareness.

The festival features a diverse lineup, including expert-led discussions, art performances, interactive workshops, and informative stalls. With its holistic approach, Mannotsava, emphasises both education and action, empowering individuals and communities to proactively address mental health challenges. Its inclusive nature ensures participation from a wide cross-section of society, helping to expand the dialogue on mental well-being.

The key sessions explored will be around addiction, chronic illness, youth mental health, parenting, healthy aging, and more. With over 105 speakers, 40 sessions and 20+ stalls and installations, the festival is a step toward sustained impact in mental health advocacy, promising a future where conversations about mental well-being are a natural part of India’s public discourse.

Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, said, “Following the pandemic, mental health has emerged as a topic that needs a lot more discussion. But we don’t have many public platforms that bring together experts, civil society, researchers, and artists to dialogue on the state of our individual and collective well-being. Mannotsava endeavours to be such a platform, and we hope this festival will enrich the ongoing discourse around mental health.”

Dr Pratima Murthy, Director, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, said, “Mannotsava aspires to be a bridge between science and society and between mental wellness and illness. It creates a space for the sharing of credible information related to mental health. I am pleased with the diversity of contexts, themes and canvas Mannotsava is creating in this space.”

Professor Raghu Padinjat, National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), said, “We are poised at a unique moment in time where the emergence of powerful new technologies can drive discovery in the area of altered brain function in mental illness in India and across the world. Such discoveries can be a powerful enabler of new and better solutions for handling the challenges posed my mental illness and be an enabler of metal well-being.”

The two-day festival is expected to attract over 2000 attendees including students, medical practitioners, public, counsellors, caregivers and development sector professionals.

About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies Foundation (RNPF): 

Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies is a grant-making organisation dedicated to creating and strengthening communities for their betterment. Founded by philanthropist Rohini Nilekani, the foundation supports transformative initiatives focused on civic engagement, access to justice, gender equity, mental health, and environmental sustainability. Rohini and her husband, Nandan Nilekani, are signatories to the Giving Pledge, committing to donate half of their wealth to philanthropic causes.

For more information, visit – www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org

About NIMHANS:

The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru is a leading center for mental health and brain research in India. It focuses on understanding and treating mental health disorders through education, research, and clinical care. NIMHANS provides various services, including counseling and treatment, while aiming to reduce stigma around mental health issues and improve awareness.

About NCBS: 

The National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) is a premier research institute in India carrying out research in frontier areas of modern biology. NCBS scientists use interdisciplinary approaches to address complex problems in biology.  NCBS plays a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding and contributing to mental health research, through work on the cellular and genetic basis of brain development and function.

Press Release: Science Gallery Bengaluru launches Sci560

Supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, new exhibition-season aims to cultivate a strong connection between the citizens and research institutions of Bengaluru.

BENGALURU (24 August 2024) | Science Gallery Bengaluru (SGB) today announced a new exhibition-season that delves into Bengaluru’s rich history as India’s premier military-industrial- academic complex. The groundbreaking exhibition, Sci560, is born from the collaborative efforts of ten city-wide institutions and SGB, and is supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP).

Shri N S Boseraju, Minister for Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka, officially inaugurated the Sci560 exhibition season today, declaring it open to public. Among the dignitaries were establishment Patrons, Rohini Nilekani and Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw board members including Pavan Kumar Malapati, Dr. Ekroop Caur, Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi and Dr. Jahnavi Phalkey, the Founding Director of Science Gallery Bengaluru.

The name ‘Sci560’ combines Bengaluru’s pin code, which starts with 560, with ‘sci’ to highlight the exhibition’s focus on science. The name also subtly evokes ‘sci-fi’, connecting the city’s scientific history with a sense of exploration and innovation for the future. The exhibition-season addresses the need for a cultural conversation around research in Bengaluru by highlighting the city’s rich history in science by showcasing objects that spearheaded the city’s growth. These include exhibits about fundamental research such as the Kolar Gold Fields neutrino experiments, and Bheja Fry, an experiment to understand how certain areas of the brain code time to remember causality. Other exhibits include the world-famous Bangalore Torpedo developed by the Madras Engineer Group as well as three generations of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) manufactured by the Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), alongside an old fashioned a ballot box.

Sci560 will be a hybrid exhibition that will be activated by public programmes every weekend. The opening weekend includes a quiz titled Bangalore Bytes, guided walkthrough in Kannada and English, and a public lecture on ‘Map is not the territory’. This paired with the presence of SGB’s Mediators, a team of young-adults passionate about the intersection of science and art, will bring Sci560 to life through public engagement.

Shri N S Boseraju, Minister for Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka said, “Sci560 is not just a chronicle of past achievements; it is a reminder of the power of scientific research to shape our future. The Government of Karnataka is committed to supporting initiatives that bring science closer to the public and that highlight the importance of research in addressing the challenges of our time. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Rohini Nilekani for her unwavering support of this exhibition, to Jahnavi Phalkey and her team, and to all the partner institutions, researchers and artists who have helped bring Sci560 to life. The story of science in our city is still being written, and I am certain that the best is yet to come.”

Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and Board Member, Science Gallery Bengaluru, said, “For centuries, Bengaluru has uniquely demonstrated a spirit of innovation and inquiry. It has been the hub of scientific experimentation and institutional excellence. For years, I have wanted to showcase this spirit to its citizens. Science Gallery Bengaluru is now the perfect public space to make this dream a reality. Bengaluru also has a rich history of blending public and private capital to strengthen the roots of its scientific ecosystem, whether it was the setting up of IISc or the emergence of the technology sector. Now is the time for the larger public, especially the youth, to engage more freely with the city’s institutions and to be inspired, to be proud, and to weft a scientific thread into the cultural fabric of our city. Sci560 is a brilliant instance of a collaborative, creative step in this direction. I am so delighted to support this exhibition.”

“Sci560, our new exhibition in collaboration with the city’s leading institutions, explores Bengaluru as India’s most recognized military-industrial-academic complex. A dynamic twentieth century has shaped this city of new science and engineering. We invite citizens and visitors to explore some of the ideas, individuals and institutions that made this possible! We are grateful to Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies for the grant that supports this exhibition,” said Jahnavi Phalkey, Founding Director, Science Gallery Bengaluru.


About Science Gallery Bengaluru
Science Gallery Bengaluru (SGB) is a not-for-profit public institution for research-based engagement targeted at young adults working at the intersection of the human, natural, and social sciences, and engineering, art, and design. SGB’s public engagement model moves beyond participation, and towards proactive involvement through ever-changing research festivals anchored by interdisciplinary exhibitions, programmes, and public events consisting of research-based engagements led by artists and scholars from diverse backgrounds. SGB is established with the founding support of the Government of Karnataka and three academic partners—Indian Institute of Science, National Centre for Biological Sciences, and Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology.

In its mission of bringing science into a cultural conversation, Science Gallery Bengaluru has successfully hosted six exhibitions so far, with CARBON being the latest to have been held at SGB’s own building.

Science Gallery Bengaluru is a member of the Global Science Gallery Network pioneered by Trinity College with sister galleries in Atlanta, Dublin, London, Melbourne, and Monterrey.

About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies
Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies is a grant-making organisation seeking to create and strengthen communities for their own betterment. RNPF does this by supporting ground-breaking work anchored in networks and movements and often sits at the intersection of Samaaj, Sarkaar, and Bazaar. RNPF focuses on emerging themes essential to an equitable and inclusive society, such as civic engagement, access to justice, gender equity, mental health and climate & biodiversity. RNPF is founded by Rohini Nilekani, a committed philanthropist, and currently, the Chairperson of the Foundation. Rohini and her husband, Nandan Nilekani, are signatories to the Giving Pledge, pledging to give away half of their wealth to philanthropy. To know more: www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org.

IE | Mansukh Madaviya inaugurates Centre for Brain and Mind at NIMHANS

The Centre for Brain and Mind was launched in collaboration with National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) with the contribution of Rs 100 crore from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.

National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) Bengaluru marked the World Mental Health Day 2023 Tuesday by unveiling three new facilities – Centre for Brain and Mind, Platinum Jubilee Auditorium and Academic Facility, and Administrative Office Complex. Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya virtually inaugurated these.

The Centre for Brain and Mind was launched in collaboration with National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) with the contribution of Rs 100 crore from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.

“This initiative builds upon the resources and repository generated by the Accelerator program for Discovery in Brain disorders using Stem cells (ADBS project), earlier funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. The primary focus of the centre involves a comprehensive investigation into a large cohort of severely mentally ill patients including those diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, dementia, or addiction within families. Over the next two decades, the research will focus on understanding the causes, correlates, and courses of these disorders, along with exploring potential interventions and treatments,” release from NIMHANS stated.

The research will employ advanced techniques in imaging (with a dedicated MRI scanning facility), genetics, and stem cell biology. NIMHANS will play a pivotal role in the clinical assessments.

“A key highlight is the commitment to openness and collaboration, with the database and repository becoming open source. This move aims to maximize utilization by scientists globally, fostering advancements in brain and mind research. The centre also emphasizes public engagement and community outreach to ensure that research outputs are effectively communicated to patients and their families,” NIMHANS said.

Platinum Jubilee Auditorium and Academic Facility has been established at a cost of Rs 13.6 crore, in keeping with the substantial surge in the number of students and academic programs across various courses in psychiatry and allied specialties. To facilitate seamless coordination and enhance the efficiency of administrative operations, a new Administrative Office Complex has been constructed at a cost of 11.11 crore.

Indian Express

Press Release: NCBS Launches Rohini Nilekani Centre for Brain and Mind

An outcome of the INR 100 Crores grant given to NCBS and NIMHANS to further long-term
research and build capacity for both research and practice in the mental health field.

Bangalore, July 4, 2023 | The National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) announces the launch of the ‘Rohini Nilekani Centre for Brain and Mind’, a centre dedicated to advancing Indian research and practice pertaining to neurodevelopmental disorders and mental health. The centre will focus on the long-term examination of environmental and genetic factors involved in brain development which underlie severe mental illnesses.

Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson – Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, unveiled the plaque to mark the inauguration of ‘the Center for Brain and Mind’ today in the NCBS campus in Bengaluru. The guests present included Prof. K. VijayRaghavan – DAE Homi Bhabha Chair, NCBS-TIFR, Prof. Sanjeev Jain – Emeritus Professor, NIMHANS, Prof. Mahendra Rao – Former Collaborative Science Chair, inStem & CEO, Implant Therapeutics, and Prof. Maneesha Inamdar – Director inStem.

The centre will support research through its partnership with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) and NCBS’ therapeutic practices pertaining to five mental disorders: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and dementia – conditions considered neurodevelopmental in origin. The research work of the centre will combine the molecular biological research capabilities and technologies at NCBS with the stem cell capabilities established at the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem-DBT), an autonomous institution under the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India. inStem has been and will continue to partner with NCBS on research activities, including that of the Accelerator program for Discovery in Brain disorders using Stem cells (ADBS).

Speaking about the centre, Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, said, “India has a significant number of people, around 193 million, dealing with mental illness. The proportional contribution of mental disorders to the total disease burden in India had almost doubled since 1990, and this calls for urgent attention. ‘The Centre for Brain and Mind’ will attempt to address this challenge by driving interdisciplinary research to understand the complexities of brain and mind conditions. More Research originating from India is critical at this juncture. The collaboration between NCBS and NIMHANS will provide globally relevant insights, evidence and pathways for better treatment for millions of people in India and the world. I hope medical practitioners, decision-makers and researchers will join the community and co-create success for this endeavour. “

Talking about the centre, Prof L. S. Shashidhara, Director, NCBS, said: “Improvements in human health and well-being have often been possible through the development of new technologies and their application to finding solutions for medical problems. We are at an opportune moment where recent advances in genomics, cell biology and stem cell technology offer an exciting opportunity for discovery science that can be applied to the problems of human mental illness. With the generous support of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP), NCBS looks forward to working with NIMHANS and other partners at ‘the Center for Brain and Mind’ to develop new solutions for the early diagnosis and better clinical management of mental illness. “

Commenting on the Centre, Dr Pratima Murthy, Director, NIMHANS, said: “It is a greater challenge to get research support for mental health as compared to physical disorders like cancer. NIMHANS, along with NCBS, has been carrying out research looking at shared and unique markers in severe mental illness. he generous funding provided by the Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies to NIMHANS and NCBS in order to establish ‘the Centre for Brain and Mind’ at both institutions is a great opportunity to further this research. This will enable us to look further into the common as well as distinctive biological (including genetic) and psychosocial underpinnings of disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, addictive disorders and dementia. We hope that with the help of the RNP, we will be able to help lakhs of people with severe mental diseases to eventually receive more effective interventions.”

Read the article in The Economic Times