Roots & Wings: Building India’s Deep Tech Ecosystem by Saloni Malhotra is the authorised biography of Padma Shree Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, one of India’s foremost technologists, innovators, and institution-builders. The book traces Dr. Jhunjhunwala’s extraordinary journey from an academic at IIT Madras to a pioneering architect of India’s deep-tech ecosystem, chronicling how his vision bridged the gap between research, entrepreneurship, and public policy. Through decades of work, he has mentored hundreds of startups, driven innovations in telecom, electric mobility, and renewable energy, and helped democratize technology to empower rural and underserved communities.
 
At its core, Roots & Wings celebrates the philosophy that technology must be both grounded in India’s realities (roots) and soaring toward global innovation (wings). It explores Dr. Jhunjhunwala’s role in shaping landmark initiatives—from India’s telecom revolution to IIT-Madras’ Research Park—highlighting how his human-centric approach inspired a new generation of engineers and entrepreneurs. Rich with anecdotes, reflections, and lessons in innovation leadership, the book offers a compelling look at how one man’s belief in self-reliance, sustainability, and inclusive growth helped lay the foundation of India’s deep-tech future.
 
Saloni Malhotra is the founder of DesiCrew and Reboot Wellness. This is her second book.