Former XLRI Professor quit Congress to join BJP in 2024
Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, June 13: Noted economist and BJP national spokesperson Prof. Gourav Vallabh has been appointed as a member of the Economic Advisory Council to Prime Minister Narendra Modi (EAC-PM). His inclusion in the council, headed by Prof. S Mahendra Dev, is seen as recognition of his vast experience in economic policy and finance. Vallabh, who was earlier associated with the Congress, joined the BJP in 2024 citing ideological differences and the party’s anti-Sanatan stance.
Prof. Vallabh was born in Pipar village of Rajasthan’s Jodhpur district, but he shares a long-standing connection with Jamshedpur. From 2003 to 2017, he served as a professor at XLRI – Xavier School of Management Jamshedpur – where he specialized in economics and finance. During his tenure, he earned a reputation for simplifying complex economic topics and delivering lectures across India and abroad. He also held the position of Finance Advisor to the Jharkhand government during the Madhu Koda administration.
Vallabh began his political career with the Congress party, gaining national recognition for his sharp articulation and strong reasoning skills. He first contested the Assembly election from Jamshedpur East in 2019 but was unsuccessful. He later contested the 2023 Rajasthan Assembly election from Udaipur but faced defeat again.
In 2024, Vallabh made headlines after leaving the Congress and joining the BJP on the same day. His decision came in the backdrop of mounting ideological differences. Known for his impactful presence in media debates, Vallabh gained wide popularity when he asked BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra during a televised debate, “How many zeros are there in one trillion?” The clip went viral, boosting his national profile as an economic expert.
A gold medallist graduate from Bangar College, Pali, Vallabh completed his postgraduate studies at Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer, and earned a PhD from Rajasthan University. He is also a qualified Chartered Accountant, adding to his financial credentials.
Currently, he serves as the President of the Dungarpur District Cricket Association, reflecting his active involvement in social and community affairs.
Vallabh’s appointment to the EAC-PM is seen as a proud moment for Jamshedpur and recognition for his contribution to economic thought and public policy.
