India's First Privately Funded Institute for Mathematics Research Established

Fields medallist Manjul Bhargava emphasized that India must rediscover its passion for mathematics through exploration, not rote learning. Speaking at the launch of the Lodha Mathematical Sciences Institute (LMSI), India’s first privately funded math research institute with a ₹20,000 crore endowment, he highlighted the need for playful, experimental classrooms and trained teachers to spark curiosity. LMSI, focused on post-doctoral research, aims to foster original thinking and innovation. Founding director V Kumar Murthy stressed math’s foundational role in modern life, while economist Nachiket Mor highlighted the need for India-specific models. LMSI will initially support teachers and create a nationwide network to nurture top talent.