The government, it would appear, has begun its exercise to identify who should succeed Kaushik Basu, chief economic advisor in the finance ministry. Basu, who joined the government in January 2010 with a two-year tenure, was set to return to Cornell University, where he holds a faculty position, this month. However, he has agreed to extend his stay in North Block till August, well after the Budget is passed. A couple of economists in think tanks and industry organisations are believed to be in the race. But the choice for Basu’s successor may have already been made. Pronab Sen, who is now a principal advisor in the Planning Commission and earlier the Chief Statistician, appears to be the government’s choice. Sen turns 60 in November and should easily get a two-year tenure like his predecessor, if only Pranab agrees to have a Pronab in North Block.
Explore Business Standard