NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog, officially known as the National Institution for Transforming India, is a policy think tank and government institution in India. It was established on January 1, 2015, and it serves as a replacement for the erstwhile Planning Commission of India. NITI Aayog has a broader mandate and a different approach to economic planning and development compared to the Planning Commission. Here are the key features and functions of NITI Aayog:

1. Formation:

• NITI Aayog was formed by a resolution of the Government of India to provide a fresh approach to policy formulation and implementation.

2. Governing Body:

• The Prime Minister of India serves as the Chairperson of NITI Aayog. It also includes Vice Chairperson, members, and ex-officio members from the government.

3. Objectives:

• NITI Aayog aims to promote cooperative federalism by working with state governments and union territories to foster economic and social development.
• It seeks to provide a platform for both strategic and technical advice to the central and state governments.

4. Decentralized Approach:

• Unlike the Planning Commission’s centralized approach, NITI Aayog emphasizes decentralized planning and decision-making. It promotes greater autonomy and flexibility for states and union territories.

5. Core Functions:

• NITI Aayog’s core functions include formulating long-term and short-term policy and development strategies, fostering innovation and knowledge sharing, and monitoring the progress of policies and programs.

6. Special Initiatives:

• NITI Aayog initiates and implements special programs and initiatives, such as the Atal Innovation Mission, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, and the Aspirational Districts Program to improve the development outcomes of specific districts.

7. Evaluation and Monitoring:

• The institution monitors and evaluates the performance of various government programs and projects to ensure they are on track and delivering the intended benefits.

8. Consultation and Collaboration:

• NITI Aayog serves as a platform for consultation and collaboration between the central government and state governments, union territories, and other stakeholders, including experts and specialists.

9. Think Tank Role:

• NITI Aayog functions as a think tank and policy advisory body, providing research, analysis, and expert advice on various issues, including economic, social, and developmental matters.

NITI Aayog represents a shift from the centralized planning approach of the Planning Commission to a more decentralized and cooperative approach, with an emphasis on promoting economic growth, social development, and innovation at both the central and state levels. It plays a crucial role in shaping India’s development policies, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and promoting cooperative federalism.