India has always focused on planning and development to improve the lives of its people. Over the years, the government has created institutions to guide the country’s progress and adapt to changing needs. One such organization has played a significant role in shaping policies and strategies for economic growth, but it underwent a major transformation to better serve the nation’s goals in the modern era.

Old Name of NITI Aayog

The old name of NITI Aayog was the Planning Commission. Established in 1950, the Planning Commission was responsible for creating five-year plans and managing India’s economic policies. In 2015, it was replaced by NITI Aayog to focus on modern, inclusive and state-specific development. NITI Aayog follows a “bottom-up” approach, promoting cooperative federalism and addressing the diverse needs of India’s states and regions.

An Overview of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog, short for the National Institution for Transforming India, is the leading policy think tank of the Government of India. Established in 2015, it replaced an earlier organization called the Planning Commission. NITI Aayog plays a key role in shaping India’s development strategies using modern, inclusive and state-focused approaches.

Why was the Planning Commission Replaced?

In 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi felt that the Planning Commission had become less effective. It worked well during a command economy when the government controlled most economic activities. But as India’s economy grew more dynamic and market-driven, this model was no longer suitable.

Key reasons for replacing the Planning Commission included:

• Lack of State Involvement: The Planning Commission did not involve state governments enough in decision-making.
• One-size Fits All Approach: Its strategies were uniform for all states, ignoring the different needs of each region.
• Global Competition: India needed a modern system to stay competitive in the global market.

Formation of NITI Aayog

On January 1, 2015, the Union Government officially replaced the Planning Commission with NITI Aayog. The new organization adopted a “bottom-up” approach, focusing on state-specific policies and cooperative federalism.

The first meeting of NITI Aayog was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 8, 2015. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley described the Planning Commission as “redundant” and explained why the country needed a fresh approach to economic planning.

How Does NITI Aayog Work?

NITI Aayog includes key representatives like:

• The Prime Minister, who serves as the Chairperson.
• Chief Ministers of all states and Union Territories.
• Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories.
• A Vice-Chairperson and full-time members.

It also brings in experts from research institutions and universities for advice.

NITI Aayog’s Role and Initiatives

NITI Aayog focuses on:

• Policy making: Creating strategies for long-term growth, such as the 15-year roadmap and 7-year vision.
• Reforms: Bringing changes in agriculture, health and education systems.
• Technology Initiatives: Projects like IndiaChain (blockchain technology) and the use of artificial intelligence.
• Sustainable Development: Plans like the Jal Jeevan Mission and LiFE Mission promote water conservation and eco-friendly lifestyles.

Vision of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog aims to transform India with a focus on rapid development rather than gradual change. It works closely with states, promotes innovation, and ensures that policies address the diverse needs of India’s population.

Bihar, a culturally rich state in eastern India, is known for its historical significance, vibrant traditions, and agricultural heritage. It is home to fertile lands, ancient monuments, and delicious fruits. Among its many treasures, the one district stands out as the “Land of Litchi,” famous for producing the finest litchis in the country.

An Overview of Bihar

Bihar, a historically significant state in northeastern India, has Patna as its capital. It is the third most populous state and the 12th largest by area. Surrounded by Nepal, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, Bihar lies in the fertile Ganga plains. Known for its cultural and historical richness, Bihar was divided in 2000, creating Jharkhand from its southern part.

Number of Districts of Bihar

Bihar, a state in India, is divided into 38 administrative districts. These districts help in managing the state efficiently and are known for their cultural diversity, historical significance and agricultural contributions.

Land of Litchi

Muzaffarpur district in Bihar is famously called the “Land of Litchi.” It is well-known for its litchi orchards and especially for the Shahi litchi variety, which is widely loved for its unique taste and aroma. The district’s fertile soil and suitable weather make it the leading producer of litchi in Bihar and India.

Why is Muzaffarpur Famous for Litchi?

Muzaffarpur is home to numerous litchi orchards and gardens. The Shahi litchi is the most popular variety grown here. Other varieties, such as China, Longia and Calcutta, are also cultivated. The region’s natural conditions, like fertile soil and a favorable climate, ensure the excellent quality of the litchis.

Litchi Production in Muzaffarpur

In 2022, the district produced around 258.3 thousand metric tonnes of litchi. This high production level has made Muzaffarpur a key supplier of litchi to other states in India.

Special Qualities of Shahi Litchi

The Shahi litchi stands out because of its large size, juicy pulp and unique rose-like fragrance. These features make it highly popular across the country.

Challenges in Litchi Cultivation

Despite its success, litchi cultivation in Muzaffarpur faces challenges:

• Unfavorable Weather: Extreme weather conditions can reduce the yield.
• Insects: Protecting the orchards from insects is a constant concern for farmers.

Other Key Facts About Muzaffarpur

• Historical Significance: The district was created in 1875 and named after Muzaffar Khan, a British revenue officer.
• Administrative Role: It serves as the headquarters of the Tirhut Division, an important administrative unit of Bihar.
• Cultural Pride: Muzaffarpur is also famous for its traditional lac bangles and its association with freedom fighters like Khudiram Bose and Jubba Sahni.

The title “Metro Man of India” is given to an exceptional individual who brought revolutionary changes to urban transportation in the country. Through visionary leadership and innovative work, this person transformed how people commute in major cities, making public transport efficient, reliable and modern, positively impacting millions of lives across India. In this article, we will know about the person who is known as the “Metro Man of India.”

Metro Man of India

Elattuvalapil Sreedharan, widely known as the “Metro Man of India,” is a renowned engineer and politician from Kerala. Born on 12 June 1932, Sreedharan transformed public transportation in India through his remarkable leadership in projects like the Konkan Railway and the Delhi Metro. His work has earned him national and international recognition.

Early Life and Education of E. Sreedharan

E. Sreedharan was born in Palakkad, Kerala, to a Hindu Malayali family. He studied at the Government Lower Primary School in Chattannur and later at the Basel Evangelical Mission High School. After completing college at Victoria College in Palakkad, he pursued a Civil Engineering degree from the Government Engineering College, Kahinada (now Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University).

Contributions to Indian Railways

• Pamban Bridge: In 1964, when a cyclone destroyed parts of the Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, Sreedharan restored it in just 46 days, earning widespread recognition.
• Kolkata Metro: As the deputy chief engineer, Sreedharan played a major role in designing and implementing India’s first metro system, the Kolkata Metro, in 1970s.
• Konkan Railway: Sreedharan led the Konkan Railway Project, which stretched 760 kilometers and included 93 tunnels and 150 bridges. Completed within budget and on time, this project remains one of India’s greatest engineering achievements.

Delhi Metro Revolution

Sreedharan served as the Managing Director of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation from 1995 to 2012. Under his leadership, the Delhi Metro became an efficient, modern and affordable transportation system. His ability to keep the project free from political interference and finish it on time made him a national icon.

Role in Other Metro Projects

After retiring, Sreedharan advised and contributed to metro projects in cities like Kochi, Lucknow, Jaipur and Dhaka. Each project reflected his dedication to efficient public transportation.

Awards and Recognition to E. Sreedharan

Sreedharan received numerous awards, including:

• Padma Shri (2001)
• Padma Vibhushan (2008)
• Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (2005) by the French Government

Time magazine named him one of Asia’s Heroes in 2003, recognizing his contributions to infrastructure development.

Political Career

In 2021, Sreedharan joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and contested elections in Kerala. However, he retired from active politics in December 2021.

Legacy of the “Metro Man”

E. Sreedharan’s work has set a benchmark for infrastructure projects in India. His dedication, discipline and vision have transformed urban transportation and inspired future engineers.

Sreedharan remains a symbol of excellence in engineering and public service, earning his rightful place as the “Metro Man of India.”

Mustard is a widely grown crop used for making oil, spices and sauces. Its seeds are valued for their flavor and health benefits. Many countries produce mustard, but a few lead in production due to their suitable climate and farming practices. This article highlights the top five mustard-producing countries in the world, showcasing their contribution to the global mustard supply.

Global Mustard Production

Global mustard seed production reached a record of 12 million tonnes. This increase is due to a record sown area of 10 million hectares, driven by favorable weather conditions and rising demand for mustard-based products worldwide.

Top-5 Mustard Producing Countries in the World

Mustard is a popular crop grown for its seeds, used to make mustard oil, spices and sauces. Global mustard production saw significant contributions from several countries. Here are the names of top-5 mustard producing countries in the world:

• Nepal
• Russia
• Canada
• Malaysia
• United States

World’s Largest Mustard Producer, Nepal

Nepal leads the world in mustard production, contributing 26.98% of the global output. The country produced an impressive 230.05 million tonnes. Mustard farming is a key agricultural activity in Nepal, providing income for many farmers.

Russia

Russia ranks second in mustard production, accounting for 21.51% of the global share. With a production volume of 183.43 million tonnes, the country has shown consistent growth, driven by modern farming practices and favorable climatic conditions.

Canada

Canada is the third-largest mustard producer, contributing 18.97% of the total global production. It produced 161.78% million tonnes. The country’s cold climate and advanced agricultural techniques make it a leading supplier of high-quality mustard seeds.

Malaysia

Malaysia stands fourth, producing 144.24 million tonnes of mustard seeds, representing 16.91% of global production. Mustard farming in Malaysia has grown rapidly in recent years, boosting its position on the global stage.

United States

The United States ranks fifth, producing 45.94 million tonnes. It contributes 5.39% to global production. Mustard is grown in several states, and its use in food products driven its demand in the country.