Iconic Economist Lord Meghnad Desai Passes Away at 85

Lord Meghnad Desai, the esteemed British Indian economist and House of Lords peer, has died at the age of 85. Sources close to the family in London reported that he passed away in a hospital in Gurugram following a health setback. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led worldwide tributes to this prolific figure known for promoting India-UK relations.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow on social media, describing Lord Desai as a 'distinguished thinker, writer, and economist.' Modi emphasized Desai's deep connection to India and his impactful work in fostering stronger ties between India and the UK. Among his numerous accolades, Desai, a Padma Bhushan awardee, was an Emeritus Professor of Economics at the London School of Economics and director of significant institutes.

Having been a Labour Party member since 1971 and introduced to the House of Lords in 1991, Desai later became a crossbench peer due to concerns over antisemitic racism within the party. His contributions included the establishment of the Gandhi Statue Memorial Trust, which successfully raised funds for Mahatma Gandhi's statue at Parliament Square. The High Commission of India recognized Desai as a 'teacher, scholar, thought leader,' emphasizing his lasting influence on future diplomats and scholars.

(With inputs from agencies.)