India mourns the loss of a distinguished economist and scholar, Bibek Debroy, who passed away on November 1st, 2023, at the age of 69. Debroy, the Chief of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM), left an indelible mark on India’s economic landscape and intellectual sphere. His contributions to economic policy, insightful scholarly work, and his dedicated efforts in translating ancient Sanskrit texts earned him widespread respect and recognition, culminating in the prestigious Padma Shri award.
Debroy’s academic journey was marked by excellence from its inception. He received his early education at the Ramakrishna Mission School in Narendrapur, West Bengal, and subsequently pursued his studies at prestigious institutions like Presidency College in Kolkata, the Delhi School of Economics, and Trinity College, Cambridge. His academic brilliance paved the way for a distinguished career in academia, where he held teaching positions at prominent institutions including Presidency College and the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE) in Pune.
Beyond the academic realm, Debroy played a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic policies. He served in key positions at the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, the Department of Economic Affairs, and was a director on a Ministry of Finance/UNDP project focused on legal reforms. He also held positions at the National Council of Applied Economic Research, the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies, and the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Notably, he was a Member of NITI Aayog until June 5, 2019.
Debroy’s expertise extended beyond economics. With a deep understanding of macroeconomics, public finance, and infrastructure, he published extensively on various subjects, including economic reforms and governance. His insights into the Indian railways were particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his profound grasp of the nation’s economic framework.
However, Debroy’s legacy extends beyond his economic contributions. He was a celebrated scholar and translator who dedicated his life to bridging ancient wisdom with modern thought. His translations of classical Sanskrit texts, notably the Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita, made these timeless works accessible to contemporary readers. Through his efforts, he enriched the cultural and intellectual fabric of the nation, ensuring that ancient Indian wisdom remained relevant and accessible in the modern era.
Bibek Debroy’s passing is a significant loss to India, leaving behind a void that will be difficult to fill. His contributions to economic policy, scholarship, and cultural enrichment have earned him a lasting place in the nation’s history. His legacy will inspire future generations to strive for excellence in their respective fields and to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, continuing to shape India’s journey towards a prosperous future.
