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In a landmark collaboration, Lodha Foundation has partnered with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune to launch a multi-year program aimed at nurturing India’s brightest young minds. The initiative, offered under the Lodha Genius banner, will support high-potential students from Grades 6–12 through a fully funded, research-driven academic journey.
Backed by a Rs20,000 crore endowment from the promoters of Lodha Developers Ltd—who donated one-fifth of their stake—the program reflects Lodha Foundation’s long-term commitment to gifted education and nation-building. IISER Pune, known for its interdisciplinary science curriculum and hands-on research pedagogy, will host the initiative on its campus.
The partnership will begin with weekend “science circles” for selected students, focusing on scientific enquiry and critical thinking. In the second year, the top 50 students will undertake faculty-guided research projects, attend conferences, and develop original scientific work. Future phases will include residential summer and winter STEM programs for students across India.
In its launch year, the program will accept students from Grades 6–9 and will be fully funded by Lodha Foundation. The initiative aims to ensure that no gifted child is left behind, combining academic rigor with social consciousness. Over the next few years, more than 1,000 students are expected to benefit.
“Mensa states that 2–4 per cent of population is gifted. At Lodha Foundation, we strive to identify and nurture these geniuses who believe in ideology of Paropkar Param Dharma, and want to give back to the society. They are put on an accelerated learning program and eventually will help India in becoming a global leader. I firmly believe our collaboration with IISER Pune takes us closer to achieving our Honorable Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047,” said Abhishek Lodha, Trustee, Lodha Foundation.
Mahika Shishodia, Deputy Program Director – Genius Development at Lodha Foundation, added, “The partnership between Lodha Foundation and IISER Pune is a major step in nurturing scientific talent in India. Our aim will be to provide a rich nurturing journey to the selected students with exposure to great institutions, highly qualified mentors and character building – enabling the genius to reach their full potential. Over 1000 students will benefit from this fully funded program across the next couple of years.”
Prof. Sunil Bhagwat, Director, IISER Pune, said, “We are delighted to partner with the Lodha Foundation to launch the Lodha Genius – IISER Pune Programme. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to nurturing some of the brightest young minds in the sciences and equipping them with the skills, values, and confidence required to address the challenges of the future. At IISER Pune, we view science not only as the pursuit of knowledge but also as a means of contributing meaningfully to society.”
Prof. Arnab Mukherjee, Dean of International Relations and Outreach at IISER Pune, added, “The Lodha Genius – IISER Pune Programme is a significant step in extending IISER Pune’s outreach in science education. By combining our academic expertise with the Lodha Foundation’s commitment to social transformation, we are creating opportunities for talented school students to experience the excitement of scientific discovery at an early stage. This initiative will not only strengthen the pipeline of future scientists but also nurture socially conscious young individuals who can bridge science and society.”
