The Indian government on Saturday named academics Joram Aniya and R Balasubramaniam as new members of Niti Aayog, as part of a broader revamp of the policy think tank.
Prime Minister Modi's Welcome
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated both academics in a post on X. 'Their rich experience and deep understanding of various issues will greatly strengthen policy making. I am confident their contributions will help drive innovation and growth across sectors. Wishing them a very productive and impactful tenure ahead,' he added.
Joram Aniya: A Pioneering Voice from Arunachal Pradesh
The addition of Aniya to Niti Aayog marks a significant step, bringing an eminent intellectual voice from Arunachal Pradesh. She is currently an associate professor and a member of the Arunachal Pradesh Private Educational Regulatory Commission. Officials noted that she comes with rich experience in teaching, research, and public policy engagement.
Aniya is the first woman from the Nyishi community to earn a doctorate and the first to earn a doctorate in Hindi language in the state. She has made significant contributions to literature, culture, and indigenous knowledge systems. She has authored and edited many books on Nyishi literature and culture, along with numerous research publications.
R Balasubramaniam: Academic and Physician
Balasubramaniam, who has taught at Cornell University, is a member for human resources at the Capacity Building Commission set up by the government. He is a qualified physician and the founder of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement and the Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement. Balasubramaniam holds a master's degree in public administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard University.
Previous Appointments and Future Outlook
Late last month, the government named former chief economic adviser Ashok Lahiri as the new vice chairman of Niti Aayog. Additionally, IISER Bhopal director Gobardhan Das, economist K V Raju, AIIMS director M Srinivas, and science and technology secretary Abhay Karandikar were named as new members. Rajiv Gauba will also continue as a full-time member.
Lahiri is expected to take over next week. With the new members in place, the think tank is expected to provide critical inputs during the challenges posed by the conflict in West Asia.
