Renowned Indian-Origin Economist Lord Meghnad Desai Dies at 85
Lord Meghnad Desai, a distinguished Indian-born British economist, author, and Labour politician, has passed away at the age of 85. A Professor Emeritus at the London School of Economics and a member of the UK House of Lords since 1991, Desai was a prominent public intellectual and a passionate advocate for strong India-UK ties. Tributes have poured in from leaders worldwide, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised his valuable contributions to economic thought and bilateral relations.
Unpacked:
Desai shaped global policy debates by blending Marxist, Keynesian, and liberal economic ideas. He founded LSE’s Development Studies Institute and Centre for the Study of Global Governance, published landmark books like 'Marx’s Revenge,' and contributed extensive research on poverty, inequality, and globalization, making him a leading Indian-origin economist internationally.
Desai used his position to voice concerns on issues like India-UK relations, development funding, immigration, and globalization’s impacts on marginalized communities. Initially a Labour Party member, he later moved to the crossbenches to maintain ideological independence and address a wider range of economic and social issues.
Desai was a passionate advocate for strong India-UK ties, both through academic contributions and political advocacy. He promoted mutual understanding, supported international cooperation, and frequently highlighted the importance of economic and human development in both nations.
He authored over 20 books, including 'Marx’s Revenge,' 'The Rediscovery of India,' and 'Nehru’s Hero: Dilip Kumar in the Life of India,' as well as hundreds of essays and academic papers on economics, politics, and culture, reflecting his interdisciplinary influence.