Which among the following is/are the objectives of the NITI Aayog? 1. Imposing policies on the States /UTs 2. Allocation of funds at National and State levels 3. Design strategies and long-term policies and programme frameworks Select the correct answer using the code given below.
3 only
Understanding the Objectives of NITI Aayog
The question asks to identify the correct objective(s) among the given options regarding the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog. NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission and acts as the premier policy 'think tank' of the Government of India, providing directional and policy inputs.
Let's analyze each statement:
Analysis of Statement 1: Imposing policies on the States/UTs
Statement 1 says that an objective of NITI Aayog is imposing policies on the States/UTs. This statement is incorrect. Unlike the Planning Commission, which had powers to allocate funds and approve state plans, NITI Aayog primarily functions as an advisory body. It fosters cooperative federalism by involving states in the policy-making process through platforms like the Governing Council. It does not have the authority to unilaterally impose policies on states or union territories.
Analysis of Statement 2: Allocation of funds at National and State levels
Statement 2 suggests that NITI Aayog is responsible for the allocation of funds at National and State levels. This statement is also incorrect. The function of fund allocation, which was a key role of the Planning Commission, is now largely handled by the Ministry of Finance and the Finance Commission. NITI Aayog's role is more about policy design, strategic planning, and monitoring, rather than direct financial allocation authority.
Analysis of Statement 3: Design strategies and long-term policies and programme frameworks
Statement 3 states that designing strategies and long-term policies and programme frameworks is an objective of NITI Aayog. This statement is correct. A primary objective of NITI Aayog is to develop mechanisms to formulate credible plans at the village level and aggregate these progressively upwards. It focuses on creating strategies, long-term policy frameworks, and programme initiatives to propel India's development, acting as a knowledge hub and policy driver.
Summary of Analysis:
- Statement 1: Incorrect (NITI Aayog advises, doesn't impose policies).
- Statement 2: Incorrect (Fund allocation is not NITI Aayog's primary role).
- Statement 3: Correct (Designing strategies and policies is a core function).
Based on the analysis, only statement 3 correctly identifies an objective of NITI Aayog.
Therefore, the correct answer is the option that includes only statement 3.
Revision Table: NITI Aayog vs. Planning Commission
| Feature | Planning Commission | NITI Aayog |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Statutory body (setup by executive resolution), had significant financial powers. | Think tank, advisory body, collaborative platform. |
| Approach | Top-down planning. | Bottom-up and collaborative approach (cooperative federalism). |
| Fund Allocation | Authority to allocate funds to states. | No fund allocation powers (handled by Finance Ministry/Commission). |
| Role with States | Approved state plans. | Acts as a platform for states, provides policy support, fosters competition. |
| Relation to Govt. | Could sometimes override ministries' decisions. | Primarily advisory, works closely with ministries and states. |
Additional Information on NITI Aayog Objectives
Beyond designing strategies and policies, other key objectives and functions of NITI Aayog include:
- To foster cooperative federalism by involving States and Union Territories in the national policy-making process.
- To develop mechanisms to formulate credible plans at the village level and aggregate these progressively upwards.
- To create a knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurial support system.
- To offer a platform for resolution of inter-sectoral and inter-departmental issues.
- To monitor and evaluate the implementation of programmes and initiatives.
- To serve as a platform for dispute resolution on inter-sectoral and inter-departmental issues to accelerate the implementation of the development agenda.
These functions highlight NITI Aayog's role as a facilitator, advisor, and strategic planner, rather than a body with imposing or financial allocation authority over states.
Important Questions from Non-Constitutional Bodies/Statutory bodies
Which of the following is a non-constitutional body of India?
Which of the following statements about the National Human Rights Commission is correct?
- In India, the responsibility of conducting the decadal census rests with which ministry?
As per the Cabinet Resolution of 1st January, 2015, the NITI Aayog consists of:
1. Prime Minister of India
2. Governing Council comprising of Chief Minister of all the States and Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories
3. Rural Development Minister4. Chief Executive Officer to be appointed by the Prime Minister
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Which one of the following statements about the Solicitor General of India (SGI) is not correct?
