K. Chandra Shekar

K. Chandra Shekar is an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Development Studies since August 2024, with prior roles as a Senior Research Associate (Visiting Scholar) at the University of Johannesburg (2022–present), Economic Officer at India’s Ministry of Finance (2023–2024), and research consultant at Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (2022–2023). His work bridges economic policy, innovation, and informal sector dynamics.

• Education:
  • PhD in Economics (2022), Centre for Development Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University
  • MPhil in Economics (2015), Central University of Gujarat
  • Integrated MA in Economics (2013), University of Hyderabad

Research Interests focus on innovation in developing economies, informal sector dynamics, MSMEs, and industry-led economic development. His studies analyze how informal enterprises adapt to competitive pressures, subcontracting networks, and policy frameworks for innovation ecosystems.

Recent publications highlight trends in informal manufacturing innovation (2021–2023), grassroots technological adaptation (2019), and microfinance-led rural development (2017). Key keywords span Development Economics, Entrepreneurship, and Industrial Policy.

Scientific Awards:

• ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship (2015)

His affiliations include the DSI/NRF/Newton Fund Trilateral Chair at the University of Johannesburg and contributions to government reports like the Economic Survey 2023–24 and National Manufacturing Innovation Survey (2021–22).