The Government of India has reconstituted the NITI Aayog, appointing Ashok Kumar Lahiri as its new Vice Chairman along with five full-time members. The appointments include Rajiv Gauba, K. V. Raju, Gobardhan Das, Abhay Karandikar, and M. Srinivas. The restructuring signals a renewed focus on policy innovation and governance reforms at the Centre’s premier think tank.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the reconstitution and extended his wishes to the newly appointed members for a productive tenure. He described NITI Aayog as a key pillar in India’s policy-making framework, highlighting its role in promoting cooperative federalism, advancing reforms, and improving the ease of living. Modi also emphasised the institution’s importance as a platform for long-term strategic thinking and innovation.

Ashok Kumar Lahiri, a seasoned economist with over four decades of experience, brings extensive expertise in economic policy to the role. A former Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India and a member of the 15th Finance Commission, Lahiri is currently a legislator from West Bengal. He succeeds Suman K Bery, who had been serving as Vice Chairman since May 2022.

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The newly appointed full-time members come from diverse professional backgrounds spanning economics, science, healthcare, and public administration. Rajiv Gauba previously served as Cabinet Secretary, while K. V. Raju is associated with the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. Abhay Karandikar currently heads the Department of Science and Technology, Gobardhan Das leads the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research in Bhopal, and M. Srinivas is the Director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi.

Reacting to his appointment, Lahiri met Prime Minister Modi and expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him. He pledged to serve with sincerity and commitment, aligning with the government’s vision for policy clarity and effective governance. Modi, in turn, expressed confidence that Lahiri’s experience would strengthen India’s reform trajectory and contribute to the goal of building a “Viksit Bharat.”

Gobardhan Das also acknowledged his appointment, highlighting his journey from a rural background in West Bengal to a key national policy role. He emphasised his commitment to improving the quality of life in rural areas and supporting farmers and underserved communities. The reconstitution of NITI Aayog is expected to further energise India’s policy ecosystem with fresh perspectives and leadership.

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