Renowned Indian-origin economist, author, and UK House of Lords member Lord Meghnad Desai passed away at the age of 85 on Tuesday, drawing heartfelt tributes from global leaders and institutions, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior British diplomats.
Born in 1940 in Vadodara, Desai began his academic journey at the University of Mumbai, where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in economics. He later pursued a PhD at the University of Pennsylvania, completing it in 1963, marking the beginning of a distinguished global academic and policy career.
Prime Minister Modi expressed deep sorrow over his passing. “Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties,” PM Modi posted on X. “Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.”
Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable… pic.twitter.com/q1cv3DAXaw
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2025
British officials also remembered Lord Desai fondly. British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron posted, “RIP Lord Desai. Thoughts with Kishwar Desai and his wider family and friends. Such fond memories of watching the UK general election with him last year.”
RIP Lord Desai. Thoughts with @kishwardesai1 and his wider family and friends. Such fond memories of watching the UK general election with him last year. https://t.co/v8ay9uyo9p
— Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) July 29, 2025
Deputy High Commissioner Christina Scott added, “So sad to learn Lord Meghnad Desai passed away in Delhi this evening. First Indian Labour Party Peer, Professor Emeritus LSE, renowned economist and author. A passionate advocate for UK-India links.”
So sad to learn Lord Meghnad Desai passed away in Delhi this evening.
First 🇮🇳 @LabourParty Peer, Professor Emeritus @LSEnews, renowned economist and author.
A passionate advocate for 🇬🇧- 🇮🇳 links.
Thoughts of all @UKinIndia with his wife Lady Kishwar and their children. pic.twitter.com/EtKQrdyoyL
— Christina Scott (@CScottFCDO) July 29, 2025
The High Commission of India in London also paid homage, describing Lord Desai as a “teacher, scholar, thought leader and great advocate of the enduring friendship between India and the UK.” His instrumental role in the installation of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at Parliament Square was cited as a key part of his legacy.
Lord Desai was elevated to the UK House of Lords in 1991, becoming the first Indian-origin peer from the Labour Party. He also held the title of Professor Emeritus at the London School of Economics (LSE) and was widely respected for his prolific contributions to economic theory, public discourse, and India-UK relations.
A staunch voice for dialogue, reform, and bilateral cooperation, Lord Desai’s work spanned decades and disciplines, influencing generations of economists, scholars, and policymakers across the world.
