Topic: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability
Q2. “NITI Aayog marks a paradigm shift from directive planning to collaborative governance”. Elucidate. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
The transformation of India’s planning architecture and debates on cooperative federalism make the role of NITI Aayog.Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining how governance has shifted from directive planning to collaborative governance through institutional changes. It also demands a brief critical reflection on limitations of this transition.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly indicate the shift from centralised planning model to a participatory, flexible governance framework.Body
- Shift in institutional design: Show movement from top-down planning to advisory and participatory approach.
- Features of collaborative governance: Indicate elements like cooperative federalism, competition, data-driven policy and stakeholder participation.
- Challenges in the new model: Highlight limitations such as lack of binding authority and uneven state capacity.
Conclusion
Provide a forward-looking line on strengthening federal cooperation and institutional effectiveness.
