Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India), established in 2015, replaced the Planning Commission, which had served as the nation’s principal policy-making body for over six decades. The shift reflected a changing economic landscape and a need for a more agile, bottom-up approach to development. NITI Aayog is envisioned as a think tank that provides strategic and tactical policy advice to the Central and State governments, fostering a collaborative and participatory development process. Its formation marked a significant departure from the top-down, centralized planning model of the past, aiming for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Structure of NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog comprises several key components:
- Prime Minister: The ex-officio Chairman.
- Vice-Chairman: A full-time position, responsible for day-to-day operations. (Currently, Suman Bery)
- Members: Full-time members, experts in various fields (economics, social sciences, etc.).
- Ex-officio Members: Ministers from key central ministries.
- Special Invitees: Leading experts, scholars, and practitioners.
- Secretariat: A cadre of officers and experts who provide administrative and technical support.
Functions of NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog performs a wide range of functions, broadly categorized as follows:
Policy Formulation & Vision Setting
- Developing a shared vision of development for India.
- Identifying and addressing national priorities.
- Formulating policies and strategies for economic growth and social development.
Inter-Sectoral Coordination
NITI Aayog facilitates coordination between different government ministries and departments, ensuring a holistic approach to policy-making. It promotes synergy and avoids duplication of efforts.
State Partnerships
NITI Aayog actively engages with state governments, fostering a spirit of cooperative federalism. It provides support to states in developing their own development strategies and plans.
Monitoring & Evaluation
NITI Aayog monitors the implementation of policies and programs, evaluating their effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement. It uses data-driven insights to inform policy decisions.
Think Tank & Knowledge Hub
NITI Aayog serves as a think tank, conducting research and analysis on critical development issues. It disseminates knowledge and best practices to policymakers and the public.
Comparison with the Planning Commission
The NITI Aayog represents a significant shift from the centralized planning model of the Planning Commission. The following table highlights key differences:
| Feature | Planning Commission | NITI Aayog |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Top-down, centralized | Bottom-up, decentralized |
| Role | Formulate five-year plans | Policy think tank, strategic advisor |
| Structure | Highly bureaucratic | Flexible, expert-driven |
| Focus | Sectoral allocation of resources | Comprehensive development, including social sector |
| State Involvement | Limited | Significant, promoting cooperative federalism |
Recent Initiatives & Impact
NITI Aayog has been instrumental in several key initiatives, including:
- Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Digital India Programme: Enhancing digital infrastructure and services.
- Sustainable Action for Transforming Healthcare (SATH): Improving healthcare delivery.
- National Strategy for New India @ 2022: A vision document outlining India’s development path.
However, NITI Aayog has also faced criticism regarding its limited impact on ground-level implementation and its perceived lack of autonomy from political interference. Some argue that it has not fundamentally altered the existing power dynamics within the government.
Conclusion
NITI Aayog represents a progressive step towards a more dynamic and inclusive development model for India. While it has successfully positioned itself as a key policy advisor and facilitator of cooperative federalism, its effectiveness hinges on its ability to translate strategic vision into tangible outcomes. Strengthening its analytical capabilities, enhancing its monitoring mechanisms, and ensuring greater autonomy will be crucial for NITI Aayog to realize its full potential and contribute to India’s transformation.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.