Meghnad Desai
Lord Meghnad Desai, a towering figure in economics and public policy, passed away in London on 29 July 2025 at the age of 85. His death marks the end of a remarkable career that bridged India and the United Kingdom, academia and politics, theory and practice. Desai’s work spanned development economics, Marxian theory, and international relations, leaving a lasting legacy in both countries and beyond.
Early Life and Education
Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, in 1940, Desai showed early curiosity about social inequality. He graduated in economics from the University of Mumbai and earned his PhD from the University of Pennsylvania. His academic training focused on development economics and macroeconomic challenges faced by underdeveloped countries.
Academic Career at London School of Economics
Desai joined the London School of Economics (LSE) in 1965 and became Professor of Economics in 1983. He founded the Centre for the Study of Global Governance in 1992, which examined post-colonial transitions and global power shifts. His teaching blended classical economics with Marxist theory and encouraged critical debate on capitalism, socialism, and public policy.
Political Engagement in the UK
In 1991, Desai was made a life peer as Lord Desai of St Clement Danes, joining the UK House of Lords. Initially a Labour Party member, he later sat as a crossbencher to maintain independence. His parliamentary work focused on India-UK relations, development aid, immigration, and the effects of globalisation on vulnerable communities.
Prolific Writing and Intellectual Contributions
Desai authored over a dozen books and 200 scholarly articles. Notable works include *Marxian Economic Theory* (1973) and *India Grows at Night* (2013). His writings explored capitalism’s resurgence, state roles in development, and cultural identity. He was also a regular columnist, engaging the public on economic reforms and political challenges.
Impact on India-UK Relations
Despite residing mainly in the UK, Desai remained deeply connected to India. He advised policymakers and contributed to debates on India’s economic liberalisation. He advocated democratic capitalism balanced with strong institutions and social safety nets. His moderate views helped bridge ideological divides amid rising populism.
Honours and Recognition
Desai received the Padma Bhushan in 2008 for his contributions to public affairs and economics. He held honorary doctorates and advisory roles at global institutions like the United Nations and World Bank. His approachable style made complex ideas accessible to students and the public alike.
Legacy and Influence
Desai’s legacy lies in his fearless pursuit of truth and intellectual freedom. He combined Marxist insights with support for market reforms. He was a British parliamentarian who loved India and an academic who communicated like a journalist. His work remains relevant in addressing inequality, fragile democracies, and ideological conflicts worldwide.
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