Padma Shree Kosaraju Leela Krishna renowned professor of Economics

Padma Shree Kosaraju Leela Krishna, formerly, Professor and Head, Department of Economics, Delhi School of Economics, ranks amongst the most distinguished economists in India, and is widely respected in the teaching, research and the student fraternity. 

K.L. Krishna. Universally called KLK or KL truly a great teacher, whose lectures in applied econometrics and industrial economics were truly outstanding.

KLK would walk in without a scrap of paper, teach fundamentally profound stuff, fill the blackboard with a series of equations and complete precisely what he had planned for the lecture a minute or two before the end of class — doing so day in and out. KLK was also a master of understanding, using and interpreting large data sets. 

He is presently, Chairman, Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Hyderabad and Hony. Research Advisor, Centre for Development Economics, Delhi School of Economics, Delhi. Professor Krishna has overseen success-ful completion of over 40 Ph.D. and M.Phil dissertations, covering almost all important branches of economics.

The Padma Shri was awarded to K L Krishna in 2025 is well known for his exceptional teachings in econometrics and industrial economics. Krishna's pedagogical brilliance and his contributions to dealing with Indian datasets made him a revered figure among students and colleagues. His recognition is well-deserved.