In a strategic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has restructured the NITI Aayog, incorporating three influential ministers from Bihar as special invitee members. Jitan Ram Manjhi, Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lallan Singh, and Chirag Paswan have been appointed to the think tank, highlighting the Modi government's focus on alliance partners ahead of the upcoming Union Budget.
The reorganization comes at a critical time, with Bihar and Andhra Pradesh pushing for special state status and substantial budgetary allocations. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has been actively lobbying in Delhi, emphasizing the need for financial attention in the new budget. Simultaneously, Bihar's JDU has reiterated its demand for special state status.
The NITI Aayog, established in 2015 to replace the Planning Commission, plays a crucial role in shaping national policies and development strategies. It collaborates with state governments to craft tailored policies, ensuring a balanced federal structure. The inclusion of Manjhi, Singh, and Paswan signifies a concerted effort to address regional demands and foster innovation across states.
As the Union Budget looms, the Modi government’s latest appointments in NITI Aayog reflect a commitment to regional development and a balanced approach to policy-making. The move also sends a clear message to alliance partners about their significance in the national political landscape.