Economics school should find solutions to farmers' woes: expert

The first consultative meeting of the Dr B R Ambedkar School of Economics (BASE) was held in the city on Wednesday.

The chairperson of the National Statistical Commission (NSC), statistician Radha Binod Barman was present at the meeting. He said that the proposed institution must work towards collecting data to find solutions to the challenges of farmers and disadvantaged communities in the society such as labourers.

BASE is to come up on Jnana Bharathi campus of the Bangalore University and is to be modelled after the London School of Economics. The foundation stone was laid in April by President Pranab Mukherjee.

 Speaking at the consultative meeting, Barman stressed on the importance of collecting local data, without which in-depth analysis of issues related to development would not be possible.

“NSC periodically releases various data related to development and other issues which helps us understand what direction we are going in. At state and district levels, statistical commission works wonderfully. But, we are yet to garner primary data on various sectors and places. Once we do, we will be able to plan targeted developmental activities,” Barman said.

NSC member Rajiv Mehta was also present at the meeting. He said that Bengaluru was a suitable place to start this school of economics as it is the hub of science and technology. “Along with economic factors, the school should also analyse social issues and keep sustainable developmental modules in mind,” he said.