Q.Explain the main objectives and functions of NITI Aayog.

NITI Aayog's objectives and functions flow from its role as an adviser and a bridge between the Centre and the states. It advises, strategises and supports.

Objectives. NITI Aayog's main objectives are to:

• Promote cooperative federalism — a genuine Centre–state partnership in development.
• Foster competitive federalism — encouraging states to improve by comparing and ranking their performance.
• Act as the government's think-tank, providing strategic and technical advice.
• Promote inclusive and sustainable development.
• Give special attention to backward regions and weaker sections of society.

Functions. To meet these objectives, NITI Aayog:

• Serves as a policy think-tank advising the Centre and the states.
• Designs long-term strategies and vision documents for national development.
• Supports the states and builds Centre–state partnership.
• Promotes competitive federalism through performance indices and rankings.
• Monitors and evaluates the implementation of programmes and schemes.
• Gives focused attention to the most backward districts and regions. …