Department of Economics, St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata (SXUK) in collaboration with the Jesuit Economics Association of India organised a two-day Annual Economics Conference on February 29 and March 1, 2024 at the University campus. The theme was ‘Contemporary Issues in Economic Theory and Policy.’

In his inaugural speech, Rev. John Felix Raj, S.J., Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier’s University Kolkata, highlighted India's current economic challenge, stressing the importance of effective policy-making to address it and promote collective efforts for economic and societal advancement. He said, “I am happy to see that the department is organising a conference on this pertinent topic. I hope that the conference will facilitate meaningful discussions and collective efforts toward the advancement of both the economy and society.”

80 research papers were presented in 10 different technical sessions in the conference. Research scholars and academicians from Jesuit institutions and other nationally reputed colleges and universities participated in this conference.

The keynote addresses in the conference were delivered by Prof. Anjan Mukherji, Emeritus Professor of Economics, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Prof. Erol D’Souza, Ex-Director and Professor of Economics at Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad.

Prof. Anjan Mukherji delivered his speech on ‘Markets, Governments, and Governance’ highlighting the government's crucial role in addressing market failures and maintaining economic prosperity. He emphasised Milton Friedman's view on government duties, focusing on security and law and order. He also said, “Countries with better law and order and rule of law are more prosperous. It is important for the government to frame a set of laws and ensure that the rule of law prevails.”

Prof. Erol D’Souza discussed role of public sector banks in India including nationalization of the banks and highlighted key problems pertaining to the public sector banks in India. He also shared his views on non-performing assets. He argued that there is a need to restructure the public sector banks.

Prof. Mausumi Das, Professor, Delhi School of Economics; Prof. Anup Mitra, Professor, South Asia University; Prof. Amit Basole, Professor, Azim Premji University; Prof. Udhay Bhanu Sinha, Professor, Delhi School of Economics and Prof. Saibal Kar, RBI Chair Professor of Economics, CSSSC were the other eminent speakers in this conference.

Dr. Subhanil Chowdhury