Synopsis: On a somber Friday, India's eminent economist and scholar, Dr. Bibek Debroy, Chairman of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM), passed away at age 69. Known for his contributions across economic and cultural spheres, Dr. Debroy left behind a profound legacy in India's intellectual and policy landscape.
Dr. Bibek Debroy, a stalwart in Indian economics and public policy, was well-respected for his substantial contributions that bridged the realms of modern economics and ancient Indian heritage.
His pivotal roles included serving as Chairman of both the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) and the Finance Ministry's Expert Committee on Infrastructure Classification and Financing Framework for the vision of "Amrit Kaal."
Dr. Debroy was also instrumental in restructuring Indian Railways, a sector seen as the "lifeline of the country," reflecting his expertise and innovative approach to public policy.
Beyond policymaking, Dr. Debroy held numerous academic positions, lecturing at prestigious institutions like Presidency College, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, and the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade.
He remained deeply committed to scholarship, and his academic and cultural works had far-reaching implications.
Dr. Debroy was particularly known for his translations of India’s classical texts; he was the second Indian after Manmatha Nath Dutt to have translated the unabridged Mahabharata and Ramayana into English, making him a revered figure in the domain of cultural preservation.
His translated works spanned texts such as the Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, and several Puranas, enriching the understanding of Indian philosophy and spirituality for modern readers.
Adding to his diverse pursuits, Dr. Debroy also anchored the program 'Itihasa' on Sansad TV, a series that delved into India's ancient history and Sanatana culture.
His contributions were recognized by numerous awards, including the Padma Shri in 2015 and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the US-India Business Summit.
His recent honour, the Sir Ramakrishna Gopal Bhandarkar Memorial Award, further underscored his unparalleled commitment to translating and interpreting Hindu texts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his tribute, emphasized how Dr. Debroy's work continues to illuminate the nation's historical and spiritual legacy.
Modi’s words resonated with thousands across India who regarded Dr. Debroy as a guiding figure in both economic reform and cultural scholarship.
In conclusion, the passing of Dr. Bibek Debroy is a significant loss to India.
His life's work reflected a unique integration of economic policymaking with a reverence for India's historical and spiritual roots, establishing a blueprint for future scholars and policymakers.
His translations of ancient texts have already shaped modern understandings of Indian spirituality, and his policy reforms remain pivotal in ongoing developmental efforts.
Dr. Debroy's contributions transcend his role in government; he has left an indelible impact on the country’s cultural and intellectual heritage, one that will continue to inspire future generations.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available public information and recent reports. Please verify from additional sources for any updates on Dr. Bibek Debroy’s contributions and legacy.
