Early Life & Education

Bibek Debroy was born on 25 January 1955 in Shillong, Meghalaya, India. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in academics and literature.

He pursued higher studies in economics, earning degrees from some of the most prestigious institutions:

Ramjas College, University of Delhi – B.A. in Economics

Delhi School of Economics – M.A. in Economics

Trinity College, Cambridge University – further advanced studies and research

His academic foundation combined both Indian and Western perspectives, giving him a unique analytical approach.

Academic & Professional Career

Bibek Debroy is widely recognized as an economist, policy advisor, and public intellectual. Over the years, he has held many important academic and advisory positions:

Taught at Presidency College (Calcutta), Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (Pune), and Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (Delhi)

Worked as a director and senior fellow in several policy think tanks

Served on various government committees, focusing on economic reforms, infrastructure, and policy frameworks

In 2015, he was appointed as a Member of NITI Aayog (the Government of India’s premier policy think tank). He also chaired the committee to restructure Indian Railways.

He is currently the Chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), where he advises on economic strategy and national development.

Contributions to Literature & Translations

Apart from economics, Debroy is equally celebrated for his translation of Sanskrit classics into English. His work has made India’s ancient texts accessible to a modern audience.

Some of his major literary contributions include:

Complete translation of the Mahabharata (10 volumes) into English

Translations of the Ramayana, Bhagavata Purana, Markandeya Purana, and several other texts

Books on Indian culture, economics, and public policy

Through these translations, he has been instrumental in reviving interest in India’s epics and Puranas, while also preserving their authenticity.

Awards & Recognition

Awarded the Padma Shri in 2015 for distinguished service in the field of Literature & Education

Widely respected as both a scholar of Indian culture and a policy economist

Frequently contributes articles, columns, and lectures on subjects ranging from economic reforms to Indian philosophy

Philosophy & Legacy

Bibek Debroy stands out as a rare blend of economist and Indologist. On one hand, he has contributed to shaping India’s economic policies and reforms; on the other, he has given English readers access to India’s timeless epics and scriptures.

His legacy rests on his ability to bridge modern economics with ancient wisdom, embodying the idea that material and spiritual progress can go hand in hand.