NITI Aayog is a/an

Correct option is C

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was established in 2015, replacing the Planning Commission. It functions primarily as an advisory body to the Government of India (GOI), providing strategic and technical advice on economic and policy matters. NITI Aayog plays a crucial role in policy formulation and encourages cooperative federalism by involving states in the policy-making process.
Unlike statutory bodies, which are established through an act of Parliament, NITI Aayog was formed by a resolution of the Union Cabinet and is neither autonomous nor a statutory body. It collaborates with various ministries and state governments to foster growth and implement schemes effectively. Although it has an executive function, its primary role is advisory.
Information Booster: 1. NITI Aayog’s Purpose: Aims to provide policy inputs and strategic planning for the country's development, focusing on sustainable growth.
2. Think Tank Role: Serves as the principal think tank of the Government of India, giving direction to policies and programs.
3. Difference from Planning Commission: NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission’s centralized planning approach with a more participative model involving states.
4. Cooperative Federalism: It works to foster cooperative federalism by encouraging states to participate in policy-making.
5. Composition: Led by the Prime Minister as chairperson, with a vice-chairperson and full-time members who contribute to strategic advice.
6. Major Initiatives: NITI Aayog has introduced initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) localization, and ranking of states on health, education, and water indices.