Bibek Debroy, chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, passed away on November 1, 2024 at the age of 69. His death drew condolences and tributes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and other prominent figures. Known for his contributions to public policy and his work in translating India's ancient texts, Debroy's passing has left a void in the country's intellectual landscape. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also noted his involvement in policy making.
Bibek Debroy: A Visionary Economist and Intellectual
Bibek Debroy, the eminent economist and chairman of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, passed away untimely on November 1, 2024. His demise has left an immeasurable void in the nation's intellectual and economic circles.
Background
Bibek Debroy was born on June 27, 1955, in Kolkata. He earned his Ph.D. in Economics from the Delhi School of Economics, where he later served as a professor. Debroy held prestigious positions in various government bodies, including the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the NITI Aayog.
Economic Contributions
As chairman of the Economic Advisory Council, Debroy played a pivotal role in shaping India's economic policies. He was a strong advocate for liberal economic reforms, emphasizing the importance of free markets, reduced government intervention, and trade liberalization. Debroy's insights on trade, investment, and infrastructure development were highly influential in the government's decision-making.
Translation of Ancient Texts
In addition to his economic work, Debroy was also renowned for his translation of ancient Indian texts into English. He translated the complete Mahabharata into English, a monumental task that took him decades to complete. Debroy's translations have made these texts accessible to a wider audience, fostering a deeper understanding of India's rich cultural heritage.
Legacy
Bibek Debroy's legacy extends far beyond his contributions to economics and translation. He was a brilliant intellect, a prolific writer, and a respected public figure. His death has been met with widespread grief and tributes from across the political spectrum.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What was the cause of Bibek Debroy's death? The cause of Bibek Debroy's death has not been publicly disclosed.
2. Who replaced Bibek Debroy as chairman of the Economic Advisory Council? No replacement has been announced as of this writing.
3. What were Bibek Debroy's major economic policy recommendations? Debroy advocated for market liberalization, free trade, and reduced government intervention.
4. What was Debroy's most significant translation work? Debroy's complete translation of the Mahabharata into English is considered his most significant translation work.
5. How did Bibek Debroy influence the Indian economy? As chairman of the Economic Advisory Council, Debroy played a key role in shaping India's economic policies, particularly in areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
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