PM Modi Honors Renowned Economist Bibek Debroy; Calls Him ‘A Towering Scholar Remembered’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow on Friday following the passing of Dr. Bibek Debroy, chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. At 69, Debroy’s contributions to academia and public policy were revered across India and beyond. Modi took to social media to honor the esteemed economist, remembering him as “a towering scholar” who made indelible contributions to Indian thought.

“Dr. Bibek Debroy Ji was a towering scholar, well-versed in diverse domains like economics, history, culture, politics, spirituality, and more. Through his works, he left an indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape. Beyond his contributions to public policy, he enjoyed working on our ancient texts, making them accessible to the youth,” wrote PM Modi on X, alongside a photograph with Debroy. In another post, the Prime Minister shared his personal connection with Debroy, saying, “I have known Dr. Debroy for many years. I will fondly remember his insights and passion for academic discourse. Saddened by his passing away. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.”

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Others Extend Condolences

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed his condolences, acknowledging Debroy’s academic and policy contributions. “Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Bibek Debroy. He was a distinguished economist, a prolific author as well as an excellent academician. He will be admired for his policy guidance on economic issues and noteworthy contributions to India’s development. His columns in newspapers enriched and enlightened millions. Dr. Debroy leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of economics, academia, and literature. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. May Almighty grant Sadgati to the departed. Om Shanti,” Pradhan said.

A Life of Intellectual Rigor and Public Service

Awarded the Padma Shri in 2015, Dr. Debroy’s career was marked by a commitment to public service and academic excellence. He served as Chancellor of the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics in Pune as recently as July 2024. In September, he stepped down from the role after the Bombay High Court granted interim relief to Vice-Chancellor Ajit Ranade, whom Debroy had succeeded.

Dr. Debroy’s tenure at the NITI Aayog until June 2019 was another highlight of his career, where his economic expertise significantly influenced national policy. A prolific writer, Debroy authored numerous books and articles, delving into diverse topics from economics to Indian cultural history. His editorial contributions appeared regularly in top newspapers, making complex economic issues accessible to the public.

Academic Foundations and Career Milestones

Dr. Debroy’s educational journey began at Ramakrishna Mission School in Narendrapur, West Bengal. He pursued higher education at Presidency College, Kolkata, the Delhi School of Economics, and ultimately, Trinity College, Cambridge. His academic prowess and passion for research laid the foundation for his multi-faceted career.

From 1979 to 1983, Debroy taught at Kolkata’s Presidency College before moving to the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, where he served until 1987. He subsequently joined the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade in Delhi, continuing his work there until 1993.

Legal Reforms and Collaborative Roles

Between 1993 and 1998, Dr. Debroy directed a significant project on legal reforms for the Ministry of Finance, partnering with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). His role extended to key positions at the Department of Economic Affairs (1994-95) and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (1995-96). From 1997 to 2005, he was associated with the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies, where he furthered research on policy issues impacting India’s future.

In the years 2005 to 2006, Debroy was connected with the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry. His most impactful years in the latter part of his career were with the Centre for Policy Research from 2007 to 2015, where he continued his work on policy and economic research.