Article 3: NITI Aayog
Why in news: NITI Aayog and Foundation for Economic Development released a report highlighting India’s low global share (0.5%) in sports equipment exports despite strong potential, pointing to structural bottlenecks.
Key Details
- Introduced the concept of Three-Year Action Agenda, replacing Five-Year Plans
- Plays a role in Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) policy formulation
- Acts as a platform for resolving inter-sectoral and inter-departmental issues
- Supports capacity building and governance reforms in states
- Engages with international organizations and global think tanks
Introduction to NITI Aayog
- Established in 2015, replacing the Planning Commission
- Functions as the policy think tank of the Government of India
- Aims to promote cooperative federalism
- Focuses on sustainable and inclusive development
- Provides strategic and technical advice to the government
Objectives of NITI Aayog
- Promote cooperative and competitive federalism
- Foster innovation and entrepreneurship
- Ensure inclusive growth across regions
- Encourage bottom-up planning
- Support evidence-based policymaking
Composition
- Chairperson: Prime Minister of India
- Vice-Chairperson: Appointed by the PM
- Governing Council: Chief Ministers of all States and UTs
- Regional Councils: Formed for specific issues
- Includes experts and specialists in various fields
Key Functions
- Formulate long-term policy frameworks
- Act as a knowledge hub for best practices
- Monitor and evaluate government schemes
- Facilitate inter-state coordination
- Promote innovation through initiatives
Major Initiatives
- Aspirational Districts Programme – development of backward districts
- Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) – promotes innovation ecosystem
- National SDG Index – tracks Sustainable Development Goals
- India Innovation Index – ranks states on innovation
- School Education Quality Index (SEQI)
Significance
- Replaced centralized planning with dynamic policy-making
- Strengthens Centre-State relations
- Encourages data-driven governance
- Promotes healthy competition among states
- Aligns policies with global development goals
Challenges
- Lacks statutory/constitutional status
- Limited financial powers compared to Planning Commission
- Implementation depends on state cooperation
- Coordination issues across diverse regions
- Measuring outcomes effectively remains complex
Conclusion
India’s sports equipment manufacturing sector holds significant untapped potential despite strong cultural engagement with sports. Structural bottlenecks such as fragmented production, limited technology adoption, and inadequate global integration hinder growth. With targeted policy support, improved infrastructure, and export-oriented strategies, India can enhance its global share. Strengthening this sector will boost employment, promote economic growth, and position India as a competitive player globally.
EXPECTED QUESTION FOR PRELIMS:
Q. Which of the following best describes the role of NITI Aayog?
(a) Constitutional body for financial distribution
(b) Policy think tank of the Government of India
(c) Regulatory authority for industries
(d) Judicial advisory body
Answer: b