Published in 2019, An Economist at Home and Abroad, by economist and policymaker Shankar Acharya, blends memoir and insightful economic analysis. Acharya, one of India’s most distinguished economists and the longest-serving chief economic adviser to the Government of India, reflects on his extensive career, spanning several decades and diverse roles both within India and on the global stage, including the pivotal liberalization period of the early 1990s.

The book offers readers a unique perspective on India’s economic evolution, as Acharya shares his experience in government appointments, his work with international organizations like the World Bank, and his academic contributions. He provides a firsthand account of various economic policies and reforms that have shaped modern India.

Acharya’s narrative is not just about policy and numbers; it also delves into the broader sociopolitical context, giving readers a well-rounded understanding of the challenges and triumphs of India’s economic journey. He discusses key economic issues such as fiscal policy, inflation, and growth strategies, offering his expert analysis and recommendations for the future.

The book is enriched with personal anecdotes, making it an engaging read and basis for understanding the intricacies of India’s economic landscape and the global economic environment in which it operates.