On November 1, 2024, India lost Dr. Bibek Debroy, a prominent intellectual and devoted public servant who championed India’s economic reforms and cultural heritage. Bibek Debroy, who passed away at 69 due to complications from an intestinal obstruction, served as the Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM) and devoted much of his life to translating India’s revered texts. His life’s work exemplified a unique blend of intellectual prowess, reverence for India’s traditions, and an unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge.
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… pic.twitter.com/E3DETgajLr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 1, 2024
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. pic.twitter.com/TyETOOwOoY
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 1, 2024
Shaping India’s Economic Landscape Through an Illustrious Career
After studying at Presidency College, the Delhi School of Economics, and Trinity College, Cambridge, Bibek Debroy used his extensive expertise to influence economic policy across India. In his early career, Bibek Debroy pushed for reforms through roles at the Ministry of Finance, the National Council of Applied Economic Research, and as a director on UNDP-backed legal projects. His positions within various institutions, including NITI Aayog, allowed him to steer national economic strategies, helping shape a globally engaged India. At the EAC-PM, he actively advanced discussions on India’s role in the global supply chain and balanced growth strategies that embraced both manufacturing and services
Bridging Ancient and Modern Through Sanskrit Translations
Debroy’s passion for Indian heritage extended beyond economics, driving him to translate foundational Sanskrit texts like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Bhagavata Purana. These translations, celebrated for their accessibility, connected young Indians to spiritual wisdom while enriching contemporary understanding of ancient texts. Through his translations, Debroy bridged the past with the present, highlighting the relevance of Indian epics for modern life. His work, rooted in both scholarship and cultural appreciation, continues to inspire readers to explore India’s classical heritage
Tributes Pour In For Bibek Debroy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Debroy as a “towering scholar” with diverse expertise, noting his impact on India’s intellectual legacy. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh also praised Debroy’s unique blend of economic insight and Sanskrit scholarship, noting his influence on a wide range of disciplines. Political leaders and scholars alike reflected on Debroy’s legacy with deep admiration, highlighting the unity his work fostered across India’s intellectual landscape
Carrying Forward The Legacy of Bibek Debroy
India grieves Dr. Bibek Debroy’s passing, recognizing his monumental contributions to both economic policy and cultural preservation. His legacy inspires future generations to embrace both economic progress and India’s rich heritage, embodying a spirit of growth rooted in wisdom and tradition.