In recent news, NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant is set to be replaced by former Secretary of the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Parameswaran Iyer. So, what is NITI Aayog? On January 1, 2015, NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission as a governmental institution with an emphasis on a ‘Bottom-Up’ approach which discusses the idea of Maximum Governance, Minimum Government. The structure of NITI Aayog includes two key hubs namely the Team India Hub and the Knowledge and Innovation Hub.
Constituents of NITI Aayog
The Team India Hub plays the role of a connecting bridge between the states and the Centre while the Knowledge and Innovation Hub builds up the think-tank intellect of NITI Aayog. Its composition includes several roles from Chairperson who is the Prime minister to Special Invitees who are experts and specialists nominated by the Prime Minister.
Objective of NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog aims to foster cooperative federalism and develop mechanisms that support credible plans at the village level and progressively at higher government levels. Paying attention to areas that require national security considerations and ensuring societal benefits from economic progress are some other objectives. Furthermore, this organization encourages partnerships with stakeholders and both national and international educational and research institutions.
Comparison between NITI Aayog and Planning Commission
NITI Aayog serves as an advisory Think Tank, and unlike its predecessor, Planning Commission, it does not have the mandate or power to impose policies. It follows a ‘Bottom-Up’ approach focusing on states as equal partners in planning. Also, unlike the Planning Commission, NITI Aayog does not have powers to allocate funds.
Significance of the Creation of NITI Aayog
The 65-year-old Planning Commission had been rendered redundant over time. India, with its diversity and states having their own unique economic strengths and weaknesses, needed a more customized approach to planning. Thus, the creation of NITI Aayog with its customized approach has been significant in enhancing India’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Concerns and Challenges Associated with NITI Aayog
Despite its significance, NITI Aayog has its concerns and challenges. Its lack of power in granting discretionary funds to states limits its capability for transformational intervention. Its advisory nature can only influence governmental decisions at best, and it does not have a role in influencing private or public investment. Recent times have also seen politicization of the organization which has essentially reduced it to a recommendatory body lacking the power to effect positive change in governmental actions.
NITI Aayog’s Initiatives
NITI Aayog has undertaken several initiatives to fulfil its objectives; these include the SDG India Index, Composite Water Management Index, Atal Innovation Mission, SATH Project, Aspirational District Programme, School Education Quality Index, District Hospital Index, Health Index, Agriculture Marketing And Farmer Friendly Reform Index, India Innovation Index, Women Transforming India Awards, and the Good Governance Index.
A Way Forward
While the organisation’s efforts are appreciated, there’s still a long way to go. To bring about real change, it’s imperative that NITI Aayog be equipped with requisite powers and adequate resources. Making it legally accountable to the legislature could enhance accountability. Further, ensuring the planning body remains non-partisan and working towards overcoming bureaucratic inertia are crucial for future progress.
Last Modified: February 15, 2024