The NITI Aayog has emerged as an important institution of the Union government in the last one decade. Elucidate. (250 words)

ANSWER:

Introduction: The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, established in 2015, replaced the Planning Commission to better align with the contemporary economic landscape and governance needs. Over the past decade, it has become a pivotal institution in shaping India’s policy framework and fostering cooperative federalism.

Body:

Policy Formulation and Implementation:

• Strategic Planning: NITI Aayog has been instrumental in formulating long-term strategies and policies, such as the “Strategy for New India @75” which outlines developmental goals for 2022-23.
• Sectoral Reforms: It has driven reforms in critical sectors like health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure, ensuring that policies are data-driven and evidence-based.

Cooperative Federalism:

• State Engagement: NITI Aayog promotes cooperative federalism by involving states in the policy-making process through initiatives like the Governing Council meetings.
• Competitive Federalism: It encourages states to compete in improving their performance through indices like the Health Index and the School Education Quality Index.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

• Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): AIM fosters innovation and entrepreneurship across the country, supporting startups and establishing Atal Tinkering Labs in schools.
• Digital India: NITI Aayog has been a key player in promoting digital transformation through initiatives like the Digital India campaign and the development of the India Stack.

Sustainable Development:

• SDG Localization: It plays a crucial role in localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and monitoring India’s progress through the SDG India Index.
• Environmental Initiatives: NITI Aayog has been involved in various environmental initiatives, including the National Clean Air Programme and the promotion of renewable energy.

Conclusion: NITI Aayog has emerged as a dynamic institution, driving India’s development agenda through strategic planning, fostering cooperative and competitive federalism, promoting innovation, and ensuring sustainable development. Its role in shaping policies and engaging with states has made it a cornerstone of India’s governance framework in the last decade.