Prominent economist Mahendra Dev has been appointed as the new chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Committee (EAC-PM) and succeeding Bibek Debroy. The developer, renowned for his work in agriculture and developmental economics, brings decades of academic and policy experience to his position. This appointment is expected to affect the direction of India’s economic policy, particularly amid evolving economic challenges.
S Mahendra Dev is a prominent academic and policy expert in economics and has been appointed as the new chairman of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Committee (EAC-PM). His appointment comes after the death of Bibek Debroy, who served as chairman of EAC-PM since his reconfiguration in 2017 until his death in November 2024.
Mahendra Dev is highly respected for his research and contributions in agricultural policy, poverty reduction, and economic development. Until last week’s appointment, he was director of the Axis Bank board and former director of the Indira Gandhi Development Research Institute (IGIDR) Mumbai. Dev’s work has influenced the formation of discussions on rural development and welfare policy, and he has played an important advisory role in various Indian government and international organizations.
As Chair of EAC-PM, DEV is expected to provide independent economic analysis and advice to the government during difficult periods characterized by global economic uncertainty and India’s own development needs. Experts suggest that his academic background and policy experience can guide him to a new focus on rural and agricultural reforms, addressing issues related to inequality and sustainable growth. Dev’s appointment comes as the Indian government targets robust economic growth, navigates global headwinds and focuses on inclusive development.
EAC-PM plays an important role by providing recommendations for data-driven policy and providing independent views on economic issues. The government and the economic community welcome the appointment and hope that developers will continue the EAC-PM tradition of independent, informed policy guidance.
