In 2024-25, NITI Aayog launched a visioning exercise across six state of Indias. The initiative aims to develop state-specific vision documents that align with the national goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. This movement gained traction following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for states to prepare their own visions. The report details how NITI Aayog is facilitating this process to ensure comprehensive development across various sectors.
Purpose of the Visioning Initiative
The primary goal is to assist states in crafting strategies for growth. This aligns with the central government’s policies aimed at achieving Viksit Bharat. The initiative is expected to enhance economic performance and governance. It also aims to improve citizens’ lives by driving strategic transformations.
Participating States
The visioning exercise includes Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. These states were selected to participate actively in the development of their specific vision documents. The focus is on tailoring strategies that reflect local needs and strengths.
Support Structure
Dedicated teams within NITI Aayog have been formed to assist in the preparation of these vision documents. These teams provide expertise and guidance to ensure that the strategies are effective and aligned with national objectives. They help in identifying core areas of strength for each state.
State Support Mission
This initiative falls under the State Support Mission, introduced in the Union Budget 2023-24. It aims to create structured engagement between NITI Aayog and the states. The mission promotes a cohesive development framework, ensuring that state and national policies are aligned.
Establishment of State Institutions for Transformation
NITI Aayog is also encouraging states to establish State Institutions for Transformation (SIT). These institutions will serve as multi-disciplinary resources. They will guide the development strategies of states and Union Territories (UTs). As of now, 26 SITs have been established under the State Support Mission.
Impact on Cooperative Federalism
The visioning exercise promotes cooperative federalism. It strengthens state capacities and encourages proactive contributions to national development. By aligning state policies with national priorities, the initiative encourages a more integrated approach to governance and economic progress.
Anticipated Outcomes
The initiative aims to drive all-round growth in various sectors. It is expected to enhance economic stability and improve governance. The ultimate goal is to create a robust framework for sustainable development in line with the aspirations of Viksit Bharat.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of NITI Aayog in promoting cooperative federalism in India.
- Explain the significance of the State Support Mission in achieving socio-economic goals at the state level.
- What are State Institutions for Transformation? How do they contribute to state development strategies?
- What is the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047? Discuss its implications for India’s socio-economic landscape.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of NITI Aayog in promoting cooperative federalism in India.
- NITI Aayog facilitates collaboration between the central and state governments, ensuring alignment of policies.
- It provides support and expertise to states in formulating development strategies that reflect local needs.
- The organization promotes a cohesive framework for development, enhancing state capacities and governance.
- Through initiatives like the State Support Mission, NITI Aayog strengthens institutional engagement with states.
- It encourages proactive contributions from states towards national objectives, encouraging a more integrated approach to federalism.
2. Explain the significance of the State Support Mission in achieving socio-economic goals at the state level.
- The State Support Mission creates structured engagement between NITI Aayog and states, enhancing collaboration.
- It helps states develop tailored roadmaps that align with national priorities for socio-economic development.
- The mission focuses on leveraging core strengths of each state, promoting localized growth strategies.
- It facilitates the establishment of State Institutions for Transformation to guide development initiatives.
- Overall, it aims to encourage a cohesive development framework that supports sustainable growth across states.
3. What are State Institutions for Transformation? How do they contribute to state development strategies?
- State Institutions for Transformation (SIT) are multi-disciplinary resources established to aid state development.
- They provide expertise and guidance to formulate effective development strategies aligned with state needs.
- SITs facilitate structured engagement between NITI Aayog and states, enhancing collaboration on policy implementation.
- They promote innovation and best practices in governance and development across various sectors.
- As of now, 26 SITs have been established, contributing to state-level transformation efforts.
4. What is the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047? Discuss its implications for India’s socio-economic landscape.
- The vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 aims for a developed India with robust economic growth and improved governance.
- It emphasizes inclusive development, ensuring that benefits reach all segments of society, especially the marginalized.
- The initiative seeks to enhance infrastructure, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life for citizens.
- It encourages sustainable practices and innovation to address contemporary challenges and future needs.
- Ultimately, Viksit Bharat aims to position India as a global leader in socio-economic development by its centenary year.
