Thiagarajar Polytechnic College (TPT) was established in 1958 by philanthropist Sri. Karumuttu Thiagarajar as a government-aided institution to meet the need for skilled technical manpower in postindependent India. Its growth was further strengthened by former Chairman Sri.M.S.Chockalingam, a textile pioneer and philanthropist who expanded access to technical education.
The institutions are presently administered under the leadership of Educational Evangelist and Chairman, Mr.C.Valliappa, along with the dynamic Vice-Chairmen, Mr.Chocko Valliappa and Mr.Thyagu Valliappa. Together, they provide visionary guidance, ensuring academic excellence, innovation, and the continued growth of the institutions.
Chairman
Mr. C. Valliappa, Chairman — a visionary leader in industry, technology, and education — is hailed as the father of IT in Bengaluru for bringing Texas Instruments to India in 1985. A recipient of awards like the Engineering Watch Edupreneurs Award 2013 and Visionary Leader 2020, he is also recognized by the American Government for his global insights. Deeply rooted in spiritual values, he serves as Arangavalar for three major temples in Salem and Trustee of Arulmigu Karpaga Vinayagar Temple, Pillaiyarpatti. Under his dynamic leadership, the Sona Group of institutions has expanded significantly, establishing Sona College of Arts and Science, Sona Valliappa Public School, and Sona Medical College of Naturopathy and Yoga — reflecting his dedication to holistic education. His charismatic leadership has elevated the institutions to a position of profound significance, leaving a lasting legacy of transformative impact.
Vice Chairman
Mr.Chocko Valliappa, Vice Chairman is a dynamic entrepreneur who co-founded Valliappa Software Tech Park (VSTP) in 1995, bringing ORACLE, CISCO, and Verifone to India. He established VEE TECHNOLOGIES in 2000, a global consulting firm, and launched initiatives like HIREMEE, SONA HOME, and ANADHANAM. A YPO member and Global Social Impact Award recipient, he founded EO Bangalore and launched SONA FM 89.6. Recognized among Outlook's 75 Change Makers of Modern India (2022), he holds 10 patents and serves as the Member, Board of Research Studies (BORS) in Periyar University, Salem and as Syndicate Member of Anna University, Chennai by the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Vice Chairman
Mr.Thyagu Valliappa, Vice Chairman is a vibrant industrialist with interests across textiles, technology, logistics, and education, dedicated in elevating TPT-SONA to global standards. His innovative venture SONA STAR caters to develop Make in India products, which has executed MoU with TANCAM, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and Dassult Systems for offering “3DX” for the student fraternity. As Managing Trustee of Sona Medical College of Naturopathy and Yoga, and founder of SONA AYUSH, he blends technology in healthcare. As a founder of SONA STAR, he drives innovation through the application TMS(Track My Sona) He serves as the Chairman of MMA, Salem Chapter.
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