Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay alumnus Sharad Sanghi has donated an undisclosed amount for setting up a centre for ageing and neurodegenerative diseases named after his late mother Sunita Sanghi. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed last week, the premiere school issued a statement Monday.
Sharad Sanghi, a 1989 B.Tech batch graduate, is now the managing director at tech firm NTT Ltd. “Neurodegenerative diseases are increasingly becoming a challenge for senior citizens. It deprives them of quality life in their golden years. The onset of such ailments is a trauma for the affected person, as well as their loved ones,” shared Mr Sanghi, adding that his late mother’s fight with a debilitating condition moved him to donate the largess.
“The Centre of Ageing and Neurodegenerative Diseases” is an endeavour towards research in the subject so that early detection and treatment can thwart the suffering for many.
A lack of robust biomarkers and disease-modifying therapies that could help in early diagnosis. Early detection and intervention are crucial for the better management of neurological disorders including Parkinson’s disease. The Centre is expected to work in close coordination with the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering at the institute. It will also facilitate research programmes.
According to IIT Bombay director, Subhasis Chaudhuri: “Early detection and slowing the onset of such diseases will be key levers towards effective therapy. This Centre will go a long way in helping us overcome obstacles of funding and infra to undertake research. Mr Sanghi’s donation will help us immensely and we are deeply grateful to him for his generosity.”
