The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was established on 1 January 2015, replacing the Planning Commission. It was created to reflect the changing development needs of India and to promote a more participatory, cooperative, and flexible approach to policy-making. Unlike the Planning Commission, NITI Aayog is not a fund-allocating body but a policy think tank.

Nature of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog is an advisory and policy-oriented institution. It functions as a knowledge hub and strategic think tank, fostering cooperative federalism by actively involving States in national development. It does not impose policies but encourages consensus-based planning. Its nature is dynamic, evidence-driven, and reform-oriented.

Structure of NITI Aayog

The Prime Minister of India is the Chairperson of NITI Aayog. It consists of a Vice-Chairperson, full-time Members, part-time Members, and Ex-officio Members drawn from the Union Council of Ministers. A Chief Executive Officer (CEO), appointed by the Prime Minister, manages the day-to-day functioning. The Governing Council, comprising Chief Ministers of States and Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories, serves as a key decision-making platform.

Functions of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog formulates long-term strategic visions, national development priorities, and sectoral policies. It promotes cooperative and competitive federalism, supports States through technical assistance, and encourages innovation and best practices. It also monitors and evaluates government programmes, develops performance indices, and serves as a platform for intergovernmental coordination.

Responsibilities of NITI Aayog

The responsibilities of NITI Aayog include fostering sustainable and inclusive growth, promoting evidence-based policymaking, strengthening governance through institutional reforms, and aligning national development with global goals such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also acts as a bridge between the Centre, States, and various stakeholders including academia and civil society.

Conclusion

In essence, NITI Aayog represents a shift from centralized planning to collaborative governance. By focusing on policy guidance rather than control, it plays a crucial role in shaping India’s development strategy in a rapidly changing socio-economic environment.