I met Bibek Debroy for the first time on a train to Amritsar. Both of us were part of an Indian government delegation to Lahore, led by Mani Shankar Aiyar. I was engrossed in “Swadeshi Reformer” by Yashwant Sinha, and Bibek, sharing my interest in Indian economics, struck up a conversation. That moment marked the beginning of a friendship and professional relationship that would shape my life in countless ways.

Our journey to Lahore was memorable, not just for the hospitality we received, but for a deeply personal experience—Bibek was my companion as I ventured into the old streets of Lohari Gate in search of my ancestral home. His willingness to be there for me, even in such personal pursuits, epitomised his caring nature and it was just one of many gestures that made our bond feel as close as family.

Bibek joined the SKOCH Development Foundation as our first Distinguished Fellow, contributing his unparalleled expertise on governance, financial inclusion, and social justice. His contributions weren’t just academic; they were reflections of a man who believed deeply in building an inclusive India. His work resonated across many areas—urbanisation, public-private partnerships, health reforms and decentralised governance. Bibek had a rare talent for seeing beyond data, connecting it with the lives of people and advocating for growth that benefited every Indian, not just a select few.

Over the years, I have had the privilege to witness and share in his wisdom, his humor and his passion for social equity. His insights on poverty, financial inclusion and the importance of strong local governance will continue to guide us for generations. I find solace in knowing that his legacy is woven into the very fabric of our work and that his insights live on in the policies he helped shape and the lives he touched.

The SKOCH Development Foundation honored him with the India Economic Forum Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his monumental contributions. But his acceptance speech wasn’t about his achievements—it was a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Suparna, his constant partner and “Ardhangini.” Bibek often said that much of what he had achieved was because of Suparna’s unwavering support, grace and understanding. This bond between them was profound and his love and gratitude for her were always palpable. In honouring him, we also honour Suparna, for the quiet strength and encouragement she provided him every step of the way.

Bibek was so much more than an economist—he was a mentor, a friend and a brother in spirit. I am receiving condolences as if my own brother has passed and that is how deeply he touched those around him. My stories and memories of him could fill a book, each page a testament to a man whose brilliance was matched only by his kindness. The loss is immeasurable, yet his legacy continues to inspire and challenge us to strive for a better, fairer world.
Adieu, my friend. Thank you for everything.

Sameer Kochhar
Chairman, SKOCH Group | Reforms Historian

In my NCAER years (2001-11), I respected Bibek’s work on law and economics and trade but would not claim to have called him a friend. This changed in 2022 when he and Suparna warmly welcomed us to NITI. In personal interactions, at policy meetings and through his prolific written output I came to appreciate his intellectual range, clarity of thought, personal warmth without sentimentality and superb serious writing. He had so much more to offer India before being taken from us so young.

Suman Bery
Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog

Bibek Debroy was an intellectual of “Bradman” class. He excelled in every area where he applied his formidable intellect. His passionate commitment to liberalisation of trade policies gave intellectual heft to the Commerce Ministry mandarins. He supported tax reforms proposals during Vajpayee Ji’s Prime Ministership. He also was one of the early supporters of the GST Reforms proposed by the MoF Committee that I chaired. In his passing away the Mother India has lost one of our noble sons and for me and Lata, our loss is that of losing one of our very dear family members.

Vijay L Kelkar
Chairman, 13th Finance Commission

Bibek was a renaissance man, a rare combination of a great economist and an equally illustrious and scholarly orientalist. His vision of the measurement of economic performance and social progress were mature and most relevant. He was a noble stabilising influence on the conflicting ideas of progress and development. Equally importantly his easy familiarity with the oriental knowledge systems provided a deeper content and maturity to many ideas of progress.

M N Venkatachaliah
Former Chief Justice of India

Bibek’s passing away is indeed a personal loss to me. I had enjoyed his endearing friendship, affection, warmth, laughter and sense of humour for decades. Few combined complex, sophisticated understanding of economics with ancient Indian scriptures with such ease and sophistication. His breadth of learning and interest was daunting even for a consummate scholar like him. There would be few who could combine his multiplicity of learning and disciplines, seeking symmetry where contradictions were apparent. He was tolerant and forgiving to a fault.

N K Singh
Chairman, 15th Finance Commission

Bibek Debroy’s mind has forever changed the landscape of Indian economic thought. He was brilliant, bold and visionary. His passion for understanding and improving society shone through in every conversation; and, he had the uncanny ability of making the most complex ideas feel accessible and relatable. Working with him closely in Niti Aayog was one of my life’s most intellectually fulfilling experiences. I will miss him deeply. India has lost one of its greatest minds and a true champion of deregulation and market economics.

Amitabh Kant
G20 Sherpa

Deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Shri Bibek Debroy. A great scholar, author and economist. Had amazing knowledge of ancient Indian scriptures. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti.

Shaktikanta Das
Governor, RBI

I never had the opportunity of working with him, but I knew him as a professionally committed economist and one who paid a great deal of attention to the details of policy making. His report on Railway reforms is an example of detailed work, fully taking on board the long history of the railways, which could be the basis of systemic reform of the railways, which is greatly needed. His work translating the Mahabharata exemplifies the multiple dimensions of his personality. Rest in Peace Bibek. My prayers go out to his family to help them bear the loss.

Montek Singh Ahluwalia
Former Deputy Chairman Planning Commission

The passing away of Bibek Debroy is a big loss to the community of Indian economists. He was a versatile economist being at home in many sub-disciplines of economics. He was also at ease in providing solutions to the concrete problems. I convey my sincere condolences to all the members of the family.

C Rangarajan
Former Chairman, Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council