BANGALORE: The American India Foundation (AIF), today announced that at its annual Dallas (U.S.A.) Gala, A Night For India, it honored Peter Altabef, president and CEO of Perot Systems for the company's philanthropic and corporate commitment to India.

Speaking at the Gala, AIF's co-chair Victor Menezes said, "Perot Systems has been an integral part of the tech sector's growth in India and an important bridge between the U.S. and India. Peter Altabef's leadership has been key in building that bridge, and we are delighted to be able to honor him and Perot Systems."

Since becoming CEO of Perot Systems in 2004, Altabef has built on the company's longstanding commitment to India.

As one of the first IT services firms to enter the country, Perot Systems has played a key role establishing India's position in the industry as a whole, said a press release.

Today, Perot Systems has state-of-the-art facilities in four Indian cities, and people of Indian origin represent 30 per cent of the company's total workforce.

During Altabef's tenure as CEO, not only have operations in India significantly expanded, so has the company's commitment to building a positive work environment and enhancing the quality of life of Indian associates, added the release.

In turn, these associates have joined together in an effort to better their communities through programs around education, health, the environment, micro-finance, housing and other causes.

"I am honored to accept this award on behalf of Perot Systems associates around the world, including our associates in India," said Altabef.

He further added that the American India Foundation is an excellent example of how partnerships can make a positive difference in the world by improving the opportunities and quality of life for individuals.

During the Gala, AIF highlighted its digital equalizer program that has enhanced the education of over 600,000 children in under-resourced schools across India through the integration of computers and the Internet into their curricula.

AIF trains and supports teachers in 1,400 schools to educate children on ways to use technology to further their learning, added the release.