New Delhi: N R Narayana Murthy, chairman Infosys Technologies has become the first Indian to win the Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Murthy, who was presented the award on June 7 at Monte Carlo, was among 26 global entrepreneurs vying for the title in 2003, an Ernst & Young release said.

Murthy was selected for his "intellectually, philosophically, ethically and spiritually driven entrepreneurship and his company's outstanding financial Performance and global impact in a dynamic and volatile industry", it said.

A jubilant Infosys chief said "I am extremely grateful to the jury for this recognition. It is an extraordinary act since it raises the hope, confidence and enthusiasm of millions of entrepreneurs in India and will spur them to create a large number of jobs which the country needs badly."

PTI