Understanding the Composition of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog, which stands for National Institution for Transforming India, was established on January 1, 2015, replacing the erstwhile Planning Commission. Its structure and composition were outlined in a Cabinet Resolution to serve as a key policy think tank for the Government of India, providing directional and policy inputs.

Let's analyze the components mentioned in the question based on the NITI Aayog's structure established in 2015:

• Statement 1: Prime Minister of India
  The Prime Minister of India serves as the Chairperson of NITI Aayog. This is a fundamental part of its composition, providing leadership and direction. Therefore, this statement is correct.
• Statement 2: Governing Council comprising of Chief Minister of all the States and Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories
  The Governing Council is a crucial body within NITI Aayog. It includes the Chief Ministers of all States and Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories. This structure facilitates interaction between the central government and states/UTs on policy matters. This statement is correct.
• Statement 3: Rural Development Minister
  While various Union Ministers may be invited as Special Invitees to NITI Aayog meetings on specific issues, the Rural Development Minister is not a permanent or ex-officio member of the core composition like the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Full-time Members, Part-time Members, or the Governing Council. This statement is incorrect based on the core structure defined in the 2015 resolution.
• Statement 4: Chief Executive Officer to be appointed by the Prime Minister
  NITI Aayog has a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who is appointed by the Prime Minister for a fixed tenure. The CEO is responsible for the day-to-day administration and implementation of the NITI Aayog's decisions. This statement is correct.

Based on the analysis, the components of NITI Aayog as per the Cabinet Resolution of January 1, 2015, include the Prime Minister as Chairperson (Statement 1), the Governing Council with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors (Statement 2), and a Chief Executive Officer appointed by the Prime Minister (Statement 4).

Therefore, the correct statements are 1, 2, and 4.

Summary of NITI Aayog Composition (as per 2015 resolution)

Revision Table: NITI Aayog Structure

Additional Information: Role of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog acts as a platform to facilitate cooperative federalism by involving State Governments in the national policy-making process. Its objectives include fostering involvement of State Governments in economic policy making, strengthening cooperative federalism, creating knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurial support system, and offering a platform for resolution of inter-sectoral issues.

It works on various initiatives like Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Aspirational Districts Programme, and providing policy recommendations across different sectors.