Given his role in policy-making for about three decades, it is not unusual to have Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Planning Commission deputy chairman, described as anything from a leading economist to a key policy advisor, and more. When Lord Meghnad Desai described him along similar lines at a function in the capital, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh whispered something to him. Desai heard him out and said, “My friend wants to call Montek a practical man. But that would be an insult to an intellectual economist. I agree Montek has been practical but I am ready to forgive him for that.” Ahluwalia went up to the podium when it was his turn to speak, and responded by saying, “Most of all, with my age catching up, I am a defunct economist!”
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
