THE OUTSTANDING ALUMNUS AWARD FOR 2026

Madras Institute of Technology Campus of Anna University, a unique educational institution, was founded by Sri. C. Rajam in 1949 to impart education in unconventional engineering courses like Aeronautical, Automobile, Electronics, Instrumentation, Production and Rubber Technology. With unique skill – sets compared to the conventional engineering graduates, MIT students are in great demand ever since its inception.

MITAA has the pleasure of honouring R. Velusamy, President – Automotive Business, Managing Director of Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited’s Member of Group Executive Board, Mahindra’s Mahindra Ltd, a 44th  batch Alumnus of Automobile Engineering as Outstanding Alumnus for the year 2026.

Hailing from a humble farming family in Namakkal, Mr. Velusamy’s journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, curiosity, and purpose reflecting the true spirit of MIT.

After completing his B.Sc from University of Madras, Velusamy joined MIT in 1992 and graduated in1995. He joined Mahindra & Mahindra in 1996 as Junior Engineer in Power train division. Over a distinguished career spanning more than three decades at Mahindra C Mahindra, he has played a defining role in shaping the company’s automotive journey-from building strong engineering foundations to leading the transformation in to a future-ready mobility enterprise.

He has been instrumental in the development of iconic vehicles including the Mahindra’s Electric Origin SUV portfolio-XEV 9e, BE 6 C XEV 9S setting new bench marks in technology, design, and safety. Under his leadership, Mahindra has undergone a remarkable transformation, from a rugged and utilitarian brand to one that is technologically advanced, design – led, and globally competitive, redefining its position in the automotive landscape.

Today, as President – Automotive Business, he leads the end – to – end automotive division with full P & L responsibility, drivings trategy, product portfolio, manufacturing excellence and global market expansion across passenger and light commercial vehicles.

Mr. Velusamy has further strengthened his global perspective through executive education at premier institutions like The Michigan Ross School of Business & The Wharton School of Business, including the prestigious Advanced Management Program (AMP) at Harvard Business School enabling his transition from a product and Engineering leader to a Business leader with a global outlook.

In addition, he holds multiple leadership roles across Mahindra & Mahindra Group companies, serving as Chairman of the Board at Mahindra Racing UK and as a Board Director at PF Holdings B.V.

He also actively contributes to industry advancement through key leadership roles, serving as Chair of the SIAM Passenger Car CEO Council, President of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) Governing Council, a Member of the Governing Board of the Centre for Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR).

Beyond his professional achievements, he remains deeply connected to his alma mater. He has donated many Mahindra vehicles, more than10+engines, sponsored Bosch INCA tools with open ECU systems, sponsored AVL Cruise Simulation software to MIT so that students can have hands on study on the latest technologies.

He helps the MIT students in internship and placement. He has recently donated the state-of-the-art latest electric Origin vehicles BE6 and XEV9e worth 60 lakhs for MIT students to learn practically the advancement in sustainable mobility.

His wife Mrs. Suguna Devi is a great homemaker. They have two lovely children. Daughter Abinaya has finished her MBBS and plans to pursue her Post graduation. Son Aris is doing his 12th standard.

MITAA takes great pleasure in awarding Mr. R. Velusamy the Outstanding Alumnus Award for the year 2026 and wishes him good health & great success in all his future endeavors.