Vadiraj Raghawendracharya Panchamukhi was a prominent Indian economist and scholar, renowned for his contributions to the field of development economics and his deep understanding of the Indian economy. He held numerous prestigious positions throughout his career, solidifying his reputation as a leading intellectual figure. He served as the Director of the Centre for MultiDisciplinary Development Research (CMDR) in Dharwad, Karnataka, where he spearheaded numerous research projects focused on regional development, poverty alleviation, and rural economics. His research often emphasized the importance of integrating traditional knowledge systems with modern economic principles to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth.

Furthermore, Panchamukhi served as the Chairman of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), a national body responsible for promoting social science research in India. In this role, he played a crucial role in shaping research agendas and fostering collaboration among social scientists across the country. His tenure at ICSSR was marked by efforts to enhance the quality and relevance of social science research to address pressing societal challenges. He also held positions at various universities and research institutions, sharing his expertise and mentoring countless students and researchers. His work has significantly influenced policy debates and academic discussions related to economic development in India.