A well known philanthrophist and author, Rohini Nilekani has been associated with Akshara Foundation since its inception in 2000. She was the Chairperson of the Foundation from 2002 to 2008. Passionate about development issues, she is associated with a number of not for profit initiatives. She is the Chairperson and co- founder of Pratham Books, a non-profit publishing enterprise that produces children’s books. She is also the Chairperson and founder of Arghyam, which promotes equity and sustainability in access to water.