It will support language classes, health programs, youth support, performing arts education and social services for over 200,000 members of Victoria's Hindu community
Australian sports infrastructure and management companies, including Cox and Populous, have already been involved in developing sports facilities in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
In a statement, the Melbourne Malayalee Federation expressed its condolences, describing Mr Thomas’s death as a significant loss for both his family and the wider community.
The initiative has received backing from Australia’s Group of Eight universities, which support deeper engagement with international research networks.