Eminent economist S Mahendra Dev has been appointed as the new chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), succeeding Bibek Debroy. Dev, renowned for his work in agricultural and developmental economics, brings decades of academic and policy experience to the position. The appointment is expected to influence India's economic policy direction, especially amid evolving economic challenges.

S Mahendra Dev, a noted academic and policy expert in economics, has been named the new chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM). His appointment comes after the death of Bibek Debroy, who chaired the EAC-PM since its reconstitution in 2017 until he passed away in November 2024. 

Mahendra Dev is highly respected for his research and contributions in agricultural policy, poverty reduction, and economic development. Until his appointment last week, he was a Director on the board of Axis Bank, and is a former director of the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) in Mumbai. Dev’s work has been influential in shaping discussions on rural development and welfare policies, and he has held key advisory roles with various Indian government agencies as well as international organizations. 

As chair of the EAC-PM, Dev is expected to provide independent economic analysis and advice to the government during a challenging period marked by global economic uncertainties and India’s own development needs. Experts suggest that his academic background and policy experience could usher in renewed focus on rural and agricultural reform, while addressing issues related to inequality and sustainable growth. Dev’s appointment comes at a time when the Indian government is targeting robust economic growth, navigating global headwinds, and focusing on inclusive development. 

The EAC-PM plays an important role by offering data-driven policy recommendations and offering an independent view on economic matters. The government and the economic community have welcomed this appointment, expecting Dev to continue the EAC-PM’s tradition of independent, informed policy guidance.

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_{^{Image Credit: EAC-PM / Axis Bank}}