Aakhir Tak – In Shorts
- Renowned economist and Chairman of EAC-PM, Bibek Debroy, passed away at 69.
- Debroy made significant contributions to economic policies and classical literature.
- PM Narendra Modi praised Debroy’s extensive contributions as a towering scholar.
Aakhir Tak – In Depth
Renowned economist and scholar Bibek Debroy passed away at 69. Debroy, who served as Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), made remarkable contributions to economic policies and classical Indian literature. His leadership shaped key economic reforms and development strategies, strengthening India’s modern economic framework.
Born in 1955, Debroy graduated from Kolkata’s prestigious Presidency College and pursued further studies at Delhi School of Economics and Trinity College, Cambridge. His economic insights, blending Western theories and Indian economic policy, enriched discussions on India’s economic growth.
Contributions to Economic Policy
Debroy held various pivotal roles in economic policy. Prior to leading EAC-PM, he was part of NITI Aayog, where he spearheaded reforms to modernize Indian Railways. His proposals laid the foundation for changes that increased the efficiency of one of the world’s largest rail systems.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned his death, stating, “Dr. Bibek Debroy was a towering scholar, well-versed in diverse fields like economics, history, culture, politics, spirituality, and more. His works left an indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape.”
Versatile Scholar and Visionary Economist
Apart from his economic work, Debroy was known for translating Indian epics into English. His translations, including works like the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, made these classics accessible to global readers, linking ancient wisdom with contemporary interpretations.
In September, Debroy resigned from his role as chancellor of Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics in Pune. He authored and co-authored over 50 books and numerous academic papers, and in 2015, was awarded the Padma Shri for his contributions to literature and education.
Debroy leaves a legacy as a leader who seamlessly combined economic policy with classical scholarship. His impact will continue to resonate with scholars, policymakers, and future generations.
