Who among the following is the Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog as on June 2018? 

The correct answer is Rajiv Kumar.

Key Points

• Rajiv Kumar served as the Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog from September 1, 2017, to April 30, 2022.
• He succeeded Arvind Panagariya, the first Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog.
• The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog is the policy think tank of the Government of India, established on January 1, 2015.
• Rajiv Kumar, an economist, has authored several books on India’s economy and has held multiple academic and administrative positions globally.
• Under his leadership, NITI Aayog focused on policy reforms and development strategies, including initiatives like "Aspirational Districts Programme" and "Atal Innovation Mission."

Additional Information

• NITI Aayog:
  • It replaced the Planning Commission of India, which was operational since 1950.
  • The organization operates under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister of India.
  • Its core function is to foster cooperative federalism and promote sustainable development goals (SDGs) in India.
  • NITI Aayog has two key hubs: Team India Hub (engages with states) and Knowledge and Innovation Hub (focuses on research and innovation).
• Functions of NITI Aayog:
  • Promoting competitive and cooperative federalism among states.
  • Formulating strategic and long-term policies and programs for India’s development.
  • Providing technical advice to the central and state governments.
  • Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of government programs and initiatives.
• Key Initiatives by NITI Aayog:
  • Aspirational Districts Programme: Aims to transform underdeveloped districts through rapid progress in health, education, and infrastructure.
  • Atal Innovation Mission: Promotes entrepreneurship and innovation across India through initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs and Atal Incubation Centers.
  • Digital India: Supports the government's vision of a digitally empowered India through policy frameworks.
  • Health and Nutrition: Implements the National Nutrition Mission (Poshan Abhiyan) to reduce malnutrition and stunting in children.
• Rajiv Kumar’s Contributions:
  • Played a key role in drafting the Three-Year Action Agenda for accelerating economic growth.
  • Advocated for reforms in agriculture, education, and job creation.
  • Focused on making India self-reliant through initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.