Question

From which institution did K. N. Raj complete his PhD?

• A. University of Oxford
• B. London School of Economics
• C. Cambridge University
• D. Delhi School of Economics

Answer 1

Answer:

B. London School of Economics

K. N. Raj and His Academic Journey

• K. N. Raj (Kilimanoor Neelakanta Raj) was a distinguished Indian economist, widely recognized for his significant contributions to India's economic planning and development studies.
• He pursued and completed his PhD in Economics from the London School of Economics (LSE), a globally renowned public research university located in London, England.
• The London School of Economics is famous for its strong emphasis on social sciences, including economics, and has a legacy of producing numerous Nobel laureates in economic sciences.

Contributions to Indian Economic Policy and Kerala Model

• Dr. K. N. Raj was a pivotal figure in shaping India's economic policies during the initial decades after independence.
• He was one of the youngest members to serve on India's Planning Commission, demonstrating his early influence in national economic strategy.
• His expertise was crucial in the formulation of India's First Five-Year Plan (1951-1956), which laid the foundation for India's planned economic development.
• He was instrumental in establishing the Centre for Development Studies (CDS) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, in 1970, and served as its visionary founder director.
• The CDS became a leading research institution and is particularly noted for its extensive research and analysis on the 'Kerala Model of Development'.
• The 'Kerala Model' refers to the state's unique development trajectory, characterized by high achievements in social indicators (such as literacy, health, and life expectancy) despite relatively low per capita income, an area K. N. Raj's work significantly illuminated.
• His research and advocacy also focused on critical issues like agrarian reforms, employment generation, and balanced regional development in the Indian context.
• Beyond planning and research, Dr. Raj also served as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delhi, further highlighting his academic and administrative leadership.