Yoginder K Alagh, a noted economist and former Union minister, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 83. Alagh, former union minister of state for Planning and Programme Implementation, Science and Technology and Power during 1996-98, was suffering from prolonged illness, said his son Munish Alagh, PTI reported.
Yoginder Alagh was an emeritus professor at the Sardar Patel Institute of Economic and Social Research, Ahmedabad. His son told The Indian Express (IE), “He was not keeping well for the last couple of months. But his condition deteriorated in the last 20-25 days. He passed away at home. His last rites will be held this evening at the Thaltej crematorium.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over Professor Alagh’s demise. Prime Minister Tweeted, “Professor YK Alagh was a distinguished scholar who was passionate about various aspects of public policy, particularly rural development, the environment and economics. Pained by his demise. I will cherish our interactions. My thoughts are with his family and friends. Om Shanti.”
Born in Chakwal (now in Pakistan), Alagh studied at the University of Rajasthan. He completed his doctorate at the University of Pennsylvania and went on to teach at IIM-Calcutta. Later, he also served as the Vice Chancellor at the Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi.
Between 1996-98, Alagh served as minister of power, planning, and programme implementation in the Government of India. He was also a member of the Planning Commission. Alagh was a Rajya Sabha member from Gujarat.