Centre for Economic and Social Studies
Area:
Agriculture, Food Security, Rural Development, Inclusive Growth
Qualification:
MA degree in economics from Osmania University
Ph D in economics from Delhi University
Besides an economist he is an institution builder and occupied many important and crucial positions in the country. He served as a Member of several expert bodies, including, Seventh and Eighth Finance Commissions; Economic Administration Reforms Commission, 1981-82; Planning Commission, 1982-86; Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, 1983-86; Board of Directors, RBI, 1994-2000; National Advisory Council, 2004-08. He also served as Chairman, Steering Committee on Agriculture and Allied Sectors for Formulation of the Eleventh Five Year Plan, (2007-12), Planning Commission, 2007; High Powered Fertilizers Pricing Policy Review Committee, GoI, 1997-98; Expert Committee on Rehabilitation and Environmental Aspects of Tehri Hydro-Electric Project, GoI, 1996-97; Advisory Committee, National Accounts Statistics, GoI, 1992-95; Technical Committee on Drought Prone Area Programme and Desert Development Programme (DPAP & DDP), Ministry of Rural Development, GoI, 1993-94; National Commission on Rural Labour, GoI, 1990-91; Expert Committee for Review of Methodology of Cost of Production of Crops, Ministry of Agriculture, GoI, 1990; and Advisory Council on the Implementation of the 20-Point Programme, GoI, 1987-89. He also served as the Chancellor of University of Hyderabad (Central University) during 2012-15.
Prof Rao is one of India’s most distinguished economists. He has contributed immensely to both research and policy making in India. He had authored twelve books, edited eight books and published more than hundred research papers and articles in academic journals in India and abroad in the broad areas of agriculture, food security, economic reforms, inclusive growth, regional disparities, smaller states and Telangana statehood.