Bibek Debroy, esteemed economist, scholar, and author, passed away on Friday at 69, leaving a profound impact on India’s economic and intellectual landscape. Known for his pioneering work in economic reform and policy, Debroy served as Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), shaping key reforms that have influenced India’s development path.
Debroy, born in 1955, studied at Presidency College in Kolkata, furthered his education in economics at the Delhi School of Economics, and later completed studies at Trinity College, Cambridge. His unique approach combined Western economic principles with a deep understanding of India’s socioeconomic dynamics, bringing a balanced perspective to the country’s economic policy debates.
In his career, Debroy took on influential roles, including his impactful tenure at NITI Aayog, where he championed reforms to modernize Indian Railways. His leadership in the EAC-PM led to significant contributions in fiscal policy, economic growth strategies, and structural reforms. Known for his data-driven methods, he fostered investment stability and sustainable growth, and his colleagues remember him as a tireless advocate for economic clarity and literacy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Debroy, reflecting on his breadth of knowledge and contributions across various fields, saying, “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.”
SCHOLARLY LEGACY AND TRANSLATIONS
Beyond economics, Debroy was celebrated for translating ancient Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Bhagavad Gita into English, making these texts more accessible and bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary thought. His translations have been praised for preserving the essence of these classics, resonating with readers worldwide.
In recent developments, Debroy stepped down as chancellor of the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics in September, following the reinstatement of Vice-Chancellor Ajit Ranade by the Bombay High Court.
A prolific author, Debroy penned over 50 books spanning economics, Indian philosophy, and translations, alongside numerous academic papers. He was honored with the Padma Shri in 2015 for his contributions to literature and education.
Bibek Debroy’s legacy is that of a visionary economist who harmonized economic insights with cultural scholarship, leaving an enduring influence on India’s intellectual fabric. As the nation reflects on his contributions, it remembers a scholar who seamlessly connected India’s rich heritage with aspirations for the future.
