CHENNAI: Flagging that “free is the most expensive word in public policy”, chief economic adviser (CEA) Anantha Nageswaran said infrastructure built on the promise of free or below-cost services cannot attract patient capital. “What makes infrastructure worthy of patient capital?

Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran warned that offering utilities like water below cost undermines infrastructure, encourages waste and weakens investment. Speaking at…

Chief Economic Advisor Nageswaran warns that "free" services in public policy lead to economic destruction and long-term costs.