In a major step to enhance Indo-US academic and strategic collaboration, O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) launched the Motwani Jadeja Institute for American Studies (MJIAS) in New York. The initiative aims to strengthen ties through education, policy, innovation, and cultural exchange.

Named in honor of Professor Rajeev Motwani, the institute is funded by the Motwani Jadeja Foundation, led by Silicon Valley philanthropist Asha Jadeja Motwani. The launch also featured the release of JGU’s Sustainable Development Report 2025 and a public lecture by prominent Indian figures.

Professor C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor of JGU, called MJIAS a symbol of “academic diplomacy” and a platform that connects nations, technology, humanities, and public service.

In her address, Asha Jadeja highlighted the need for ethical, interdisciplinary leadership. “We are building a space for dialogue and fearless innovation between India and the United States,” she said, announcing fellowships, startup accelerators, and visiting professorships under MJIAS.

Former Ambassador Dr. Mohan Kumar, the Institute’s Founding Director-General, noted MJIAS will focus on key areas like geopolitics, digital governance, and defence to solidify Indo-US cooperation.

Indian Consul General Binaya Srikanta Pradhan praised the institute as an example of “knowledge diplomacy” that will deepen democratic and academic ties between the two nations.

The evening also included a Distinguished Public Lecture by former Chief Justice of India U.U. Lalit and Tamil Nadu’s IT Minister Dr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, who spoke on education, digital ethics, and democratic resilience.

The launch marks a milestone in strengthening people-to-people and institutional ties between India and the U.S., bridging law, policy, innovation, and global education.