Q.14. Discuss the reasons, objectives and functions of NITI Aayog and describe the recently re-organised NITI Aayog.

Let’s delve into the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), its objectives, functions, and recent developments:

1. Reasons for Establishment:

• NITI Aayog was formed on January 1, 2015, replacing the erstwhile Planning Commission.
• The shift from the Planning Commission to NITI Aayog aimed to create a more dynamic, flexible, and modern institution to address India’s development challenges.

2. Objectives of NITI Aayog:

• Shared Vision: Evolve a shared vision of national development priorities, sectors, and strategies involving active participation from states.
• Cooperative Federalism: Foster cooperative federalism by supporting states through structured initiatives.
• Village-Level Planning: Develop mechanisms for credible plans at the village level, progressively aggregating them at higher government levels.
• National Security Integration: Ensure national security interests are incorporated into economic strategy and policy.
• Inclusive Development: Pay special attention to vulnerable segments of society.
• Strategic Policy Frameworks: Design long-term policy frameworks, monitor progress, and make necessary improvements.
• Partnerships and Innovation: Encourage partnerships with think tanks, research institutions, and experts.
• Resource Center: Maintain a repository of research on governance and best practices.

3. Functions of NITI Aayog:

• Think Tank: Advises the government on strategic policy issues at both federal and state levels.
• Economic Topics: Covers domestic and international economic topics.
• Policy and Programme Framework: Designs strategic frameworks for development.
• Cooperative Federalism: Promotes collaboration among states and union territories.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Actively monitors and evaluates program implementation.
• Knowledge and Innovation Hub: Supports research, innovation, and policy vision.

4. Recent Reorganization:

• NITI Aayog has been reviewing its performance to align with its original objectives. The focus remains on realizing sustainable development goals (SDGs) and promoting competitive federalism. NITI Aayog’s structure reflects its commitment to inclusive development, policy formulation, and strategic thinking.
• Composition:

1. • Chairperson: The Prime Minister serves as the Chairperson.
   • Vice-Chairperson: Nominated by the Prime Minister.
   • Full-Time Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Appointed by the PM for a fixed tenure, holding the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.
   • Full-Time Members (4): Appointed by the Prime Minister.
   • Part-Time Members (maximum 2): Scholars from universities and research institutions.
   • Ex-Officio Members (maximum 4): Union Council of Ministers’ ministers.
   • Special Invitees: Appointed by the PM for fixed tenures.

• Hubs within NITI Aayog:

1. • Team India Hub (TIH): Fosters cooperative federalism, engaging with state governments.
   • Knowledge and Innovation Hub (KIH): Collaborates with experts, think tanks, and research institutions for evidence-based policymaking.

5. Key Initiatives:

• Fintech Summit: NITI Aayog organized a virtual fintech summit in February 2022.
• Annual Report 2022-2023: The report highlights achievements, initiatives, and challenges.
• State NITI Aayog: Uttar Pradesh’s plan to set up a state-level NITI Aayog is under consideration.

In summary, NITI Aayog plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s development landscape, emphasizing cooperation, innovation, and inclusive growth.