Purpose in Policy, Passion in Teaching
Bridging research insight and real-world policy outcomes through more than 26 years of academic dedication
Dr. Krishna Raj has dedicated more than 26 years to advancing the intersection of economics, public policy, and sustainable development in India. As Professor at the Centre for Economic Studies and Policy, Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC), Bengaluru, he has built a distinguished career spanning environmental economics, climate finance, natural resource management, urban sustainability, and inclusive growth.
“I consciously strive to blend theory with practice for the planet and people. Negative externalities caused by the market system seriously affect the society at large where I try to play an important role as academician to observe, research and provide policy advocacy to internalise externalities. My work has applied economic theory to address issues such as unaccounted water in Bengaluru, the economic costs of traffic congestion, the complexities surrounding the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor project, the imposition of environmental compensation of Rs. 52 crores on UPCL, One Water, the convergence of economic and environmental policies for climate mitigation, climate finance, and sustainable development, among others.”
His research has enriched academic discourse and shaped public policy, with his work on Bengaluru’s traffic congestion cited in the Economic Survey of India 2025–26 and several of his studies informing key government decisions.
Honoured with the Karnataka State Environment Award 2024–25, Dr. Krishna Raj continues to contribute as a researcher, policy advisor, and mentor, demonstrating how evidence-based economic thinking can address complex societal challenges.
Recognized among the Most Inspiring Education Leaders in India 2026, Dr. Krishna Raj shared his insights on how he bridges the gap between research insights and actionable policy outcomes in an exclusive conversation with Corporate Trendz.
🏆 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders in India 2026 — Dr. Krishna Raj, Professor, Head and RBI Chair at CESP, Institute for Social and Economic Change. ✨
