Sat Nov 02 05:50:59 UTC 2024: ## Renowned Economist and Polymath, Bibek Debroy, Passes Away at 69
**New Delhi, India** – India mourns the loss of renowned economist and polymath, Bibek Debroy, who passed away at the age of 69. Known for his intellectual breadth and unwavering commitment to truth, Debroy was a rare scholar who seamlessly bridged ancient wisdom with modern dilemmas, leaving an indelible mark on India’s intellectual landscape.
Debroy’s legacy extends beyond his role as Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. He was a prolific writer and columnist, fiercely dedicated to identifying and eliminating obsolete laws hindering India’s progress. His translations of ancient Sanskrit texts made them accessible to a new generation, while his sharp analysis of contemporary issues always eschewed ideological biases.
A champion of data-driven decision-making, Debroy was known for his blunt honesty and willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. He encouraged his colleagues to present even the most unflattering data points, believing that a clear understanding of economic realities was paramount.
Debroy’s commitment to integrity was evident in his resignation from the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation after it rated Gujarat, led by then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, as the top-performing state. Despite facing criticism and online abuse, he remained steadfast in his principles.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Debroy was a mentor to countless young scholars, inspiring them with his open mind, fair attitude, and unique sense of humor. He was a giant in the field of economics and a beacon of intellectual integrity, leaving a void that will be deeply felt in India.
The authors of this article, Yashwant Deshmukh, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of CVoter Foundation, and Sutanu Guru, Executive Director, express their personal grief and profound admiration for Debroy’s contributions to India’s intellectual and economic landscape.
First Piper 