NITI Aayog, or the National Institution for Transforming India, is a policy think tank and government institution in India.
- Background:
- NITI Aayog was established on January 1, 2015, to replace the Planning Commission, which had been in existence since India’s independence in 1947.
- The formation of NITI Aayog was aimed at fostering cooperative federalism, promoting economic growth, and ensuring sustainable development across India.
- Composition:
- NITI Aayog is headed by the Prime Minister of India, who serves as its Chairperson.
- Its governing council includes all Chief Ministers of states and union territories, as well as Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories.
- The Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, along with full-time and part-time members, provides leadership and expertise in various areas of policy formulation and implementation.
- Functions:
- NITI Aayog serves as a premier policy think tank for the Government of India, providing strategic and technical advice on key policy issues.
- It formulates medium-term and long-term plans and strategies for economic and social development, in consultation with central and state governments.
- NITI Aayog promotes cooperative federalism by fostering collaboration and coordination between the central government and state governments.
- It undertakes research, analysis, and advocacy on a wide range of policy matters, including agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, innovation, and technology.
- NITI Aayog acts as a platform for innovation and entrepreneurship, supporting initiatives to drive economic growth and job creation.
- It monitors and evaluates the implementation of government schemes and programs, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement.
- NITI Aayog plays a key role in promoting sustainable development, inclusive growth, and social justice through evidence-based policy formulation and implementation.
- Working:
- NITI Aayog convenes regular meetings and consultations with central and state government officials, experts, stakeholders, and civil society organizations to discuss policy priorities and challenges.
- It conducts research, analysis, and data-driven assessments to inform policy decisions and identify areas for intervention and reform.
- NITI Aayog collaborates with various ministries, departments, and agencies of the central and state governments to develop and implement policies and programs.
- The institution engages in public outreach and advocacy to raise awareness about key policy issues and initiatives, seeking inputs and feedback from citizens and stakeholders.
- NITI Aayog also facilitates capacity-building and knowledge-sharing initiatives to strengthen governance, promote innovation, and enhance policy effectiveness at all levels.
Overall, NITI Aayog plays a crucial role in shaping India’s development agenda, fostering cooperative federalism, and driving inclusive and sustainable growth across the country.
