The University of Chicago marked the 10th anniversary of its Center in Delhi, celebrating a decade of collaboration and research across various fields, including liberal arts, medicine, and artificial intelligence. The event on December 13 brought together academic partners, government officials, funding agencies, and alumni to reflect on past achievements and discuss future goals under the theme "Idea to Impact."
Prof. Supratik Guha, faculty director of the Center in Delhi, emphasized the significance of collaborations that have advanced areas such as policy, economics, medicine, science and technology. He also expressed optimism about leveraging initiatives like the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). "This milestone is not merely a celebration of past achievements but a springboard for the future," said Guha.
A significant announcement at the event was the India launch of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth. This initiative aims to combine research in economics and climate policy with energy technologies while fostering educational opportunities. In India, it will facilitate collaboration between UChicago scholars and local partners.
Keynote addresses were delivered by India's Chief Economist V. Anantha Nageswaran and Odisha's Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja. Additionally, a fireside chat featured UChicago Prof. Michael Greenstone and Tata Power CEO Praveer Sinha discussing renewable energy initiatives for a greener India.
Greenstone highlighted the importance of balancing growth with climate change management: “Families in India and around the world aspire for a better life... The Institute’s aim is to find ways to balance these two goals.”
The event underscored successful programs like the International Innovation Corps fellowship program associated with UChicago's Harris School of Public Policy. Anup Malani co-founded this program which celebrates ten years in 2025 alongside other initiatives like Development Innovation Lab India led by Nobel Laureate Michael Kremer.
Leni Chaudhuri noted that since its inception, "the UChicago Center in Delhi has been a catalyst for innovation." She reiterated commitment towards addressing critical issues through collaborations focusing on climate change and sustainable development.