Launches ‘The Light That Lives on’, a curated collection of real-life stories of resilience and transformation
First in a series of pan-India commemoration events honoring two decades of commitment to social change
CHENNAI, August 2025 – Cognizant Foundation India today marked a significant milestone – 20 years of transformative social impact across the country. The commemorative event, hosted at Cognizant campus, MEPZ, Chennai, brought together over 350 attendees, including partner NGOs, Cognizant leaders, associates, Cognizant Outreach volunteers, and key stakeholders to celebrate the Foundation’s enduring legacy of collaboration, innovation, and lasting social change.
A highlight of the event was the launch of – The Light That Lives on – a curated book, featuring real-life stories of individuals whose lives have been positively impacted through the Foundation’s initiatives in education, healthcare, and livelihoods. These narratives highlight the transformative change that can happen when communities, technology, and purposeful action join hands.
“As we look back on the 20 years of purposeful work across the country, every partnership and every life touched stands as a testament to Cognizant Foundation’s commitment to ensuring that access to opportunities is not defined by circumstances.” said Vinita Bali, Chairperson, Cognizant Foundation. “Moving forward, our focus will remain steadfast on scaling equitable, technology-enabled solutions that empower individuals to shape their futures.”
“The Light that Lives On is a testament to our deep commitment to creating meaningful change through the power of collaboration and innovation,” said Deepak Prabhu Matti, Chief Executive Officer, Cognizant Foundation. “For two decades, we have worked hand-in-hand with NGOs, volunteers, and community leaders across India to address real-world challenges. This milestone is not just a celebration of our journey—it’s a tribute to everyone who has helped illuminate the path to a better future.”
The event also featured a panel discussion on “The Role of Assistive Technology in Promoting Inclusive Education” featuring experts and practitioners from Madras Dyslexia Association, Help The Blind Foundation, Vision Empower and Cognizant Outreach, who serve in the inclusive education sector. The discussion explored the barriers faced by students with disabilities in schools and colleges and discussed technology-enabled solutions—from accessible digital learning to teacher capacity-building, that can expand equitable learning pathways at scale.
The event culminated with a special ceremony honoring partner NGOs for their outstanding contributions to the Foundation’s mission of enabling access, equity, and excellence in education and healthcare. Participating organizations included IIT Madras, Madras Dyslexia Association, Sankara Eye Hospital (Pammal), Help the Blind Foundation, Vision Research Foundation (Sankara Nethralaya), The Banyan, Dhan Foundation, ICT Academy of Tamil Nadu among others.
Distinguished dignitaries in attendance included Rajesh Varrier, President – Global Operations & Chairman and Managing Director, Cognizant India; Lakshmi Narayanan, ex-Emeritus Vice Chairman, Cognizant, Narayanan T, General Counsel – India and APAC, Cognizant, K. Balaji, Former Managing Director, The Hindu; Dr. Nandini Rangaswamy, Managing Director, Chandra Group & Chairperson, GRG Institutions; Ranganath N. Krishna, Independent Director & Consultant.
The Foundation will host similar commemorations in Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune in the coming months, continuing the nationwide celebration of collective impact that has reached millions across India.
About Cognizant Foundation India:
Cognizant Foundation India is a key pillar of Cognizant’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in India. Cognizant Foundation India is working to build a sustainable ecosystem at the intersection of inclusion, technology, and collaboration. The Foundation’s initiatives are along the two thematic areas of ‘Health4All’ – enhancing accessibility to quality healthcare and ‘Future4All’ – creating a better tomorrow through education and skilling. Cognizant Foundation focuses on empowering persons with disabilities, promoting holistic child development, and fostering gender equality. Since its inception in 2005, the Foundation has implemented over 600+ projects in education, healthcare, and skilling in partnership with several non-profit organizations, positively impacting the lives of millions across India.
