Ashok Lahiri, Gobardhan Das Named To NITI Aayog
In a significant development for India’s policy framework, noted economist Ashok Lahiri and scientist Gobardhan Das have been appointed as the new Vice-Chairman and member of NITI Aayog, respectively. These appointments, which are expected to be formalized soon, aim to strengthen the government’s policy think tank by incorporating expertise in both economic and scientific domains.
Ashok Lahiri, currently a BJP MLA from West Bengal, brings extensive experience in economic policymaking. He previously served as the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India and was a member of the 15th Finance Commission. Known for his deep understanding of fiscal policy and economic reforms, Lahiri is set to become the second-highest authority in NITI Aayog, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who serves as its Chairman.
Gobardhan Das, a distinguished scientist, is currently the Director of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal. Before taking on this role, he was a professor and headed the Special Centre for Molecular Medicine at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi. His inclusion in NITI Aayog is expected to enhance the institution’s focus on science-led policymaking and innovation-driven development.
These appointments are particularly significant amid the intense electoral competition in West Bengal between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Notably, Lahiri is not contesting in the ongoing assembly elections, allowing him to take on this crucial national role without the burden of electoral commitments.
NITI Aayog, the government’s premier policy think tank, plays a vital role in shaping India’s development strategies, economic planning, and reform initiatives. With the addition of Lahiri and Das, the institution is expected to gain a stronger foundation in evidence-based policymaking and interdisciplinary expertise.
Experts believe that Lahiri’s economic acumen, combined with Das’s scientific background, will contribute to balanced and forward-looking policy decisions. Their appointments also reflect the government’s focus on integrating economic growth with technological advancement and innovation.
As India continues to navigate complex economic challenges and pursue long-term development goals, the leadership at NITI Aayog will play a critical role in guiding the nation’s policy direction. The inclusion of experienced professionals like Lahiri and Das is likely to further strengthen the institution’s capacity to deliver impactful and strategic policy solutions.
