Prasanta Pattanaik, Indian economist and academic

An Illustrious Career in Economics: Prasanta Kumar Pattanaik

Born on April 5, 1943, Prasanta Kumar Pattanaik stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of economics. His illustrious career is currently marked by his esteemed role as an emeritus professor at the Department of Economics at the University of California, a prestigious title that recognizes his significant, long-standing contributions to the field and his continued intellectual association with one of the world's leading academic institutions even after formal retirement.

Academic Distinctions and Influence

Professor Pattanaik's profound impact on economic theory and quantitative analysis has been widely acknowledged throughout his career. He holds the prestigious designation of a Fellow of the Econometric Society, an exclusive honor bestowed upon leading economists globally for their outstanding research and contributions to the advancement of economic science. This fellowship places him among an elite group of scholars whose rigorous work has significantly shaped our understanding of economic systems and methodologies.

Further cementing his prominent position in the academic world, Professor Pattanaik serves as an advisory editor for the highly influential journal, Social Choice and Welfare. This role is particularly notable as he shares this significant editorial responsibility with esteemed Nobel laureates, Amartya Sen and Kenneth Arrow. Their collective involvement highlights the journal's importance in exploring complex issues surrounding social choice theory, welfare economics, and collective decision-making, a specialized field where Pattanaik's expertise is highly regarded and widely cited.

National Recognition: The Padma Shri Award

In a significant recognition of his intellectual and academic journey, Prasanta Kumar Pattanaik was conferred with the Padma Shri award in 2020 by the Government of India. This esteemed civilian honor, one of the highest in India, is bestowed upon individuals who have made distinguished contributions in various fields, ranging from arts and science to public service. Professor Pattanaik received the award specifically for his exceptional service and accomplishments in the category of Literature and Education, underscoring his broad influence and dedication to scholarly pursuits and the dissemination of knowledge within and beyond India's academic landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Prasanta Kumar Pattanaik?

Prasanta Kumar Pattanaik is a renowned economist, currently an emeritus professor at the Department of Economics, University of California. He is celebrated for his significant contributions to economic theory and for receiving prestigious academic and national honors.

What does it mean to be an "emeritus professor"?

An emeritus professor is a retired professor who retains their title, often in recognition of their distinguished service, long tenure, and continued intellectual association with their academic institution, even after stepping down from active teaching or administrative duties.

What is the significance of being a Fellow of the Econometric Society?

Being a Fellow of the Econometric Society is a top academic honor in the field of economics. It recognizes scholars who have made exceptional and original contributions to economic theory or quantitative methods, placing them among the most influential economists worldwide.

What is the Social Choice and Welfare journal?

It is a highly respected academic journal that publishes research on social choice theory, welfare economics, and collective decision-making. Professor Pattanaik serves as an advisory editor, collaborating with other prominent economists including Nobel laureates Amartya Sen and Kenneth Arrow.

What is the Padma Shri award?

The Padma Shri is one of the highest civilian awards in India, presented by the Government of India to recognize individuals for their distinguished contributions in various fields such as arts, literature, education, science, sports, medicine, social service, and public affairs.

When and for what did Prasanta Kumar Pattanaik receive the Padma Shri?

He received the Padma Shri in 2020 from the Government of India specifically for his distinguished service and contributions in the field of Literature and Education, recognizing his significant academic and intellectual impact.