Ex-Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba Appointed Full-Time Member of NITI Aayog

Former Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba has been appointed as a Full-Time Member of NITI Aayog, as per an official notification released on Tuesday. Gauba, a 1982-batch IAS officer of the Jharkhand cadre, has an extensive administrative career spanning several decades, including serving as India’s top bureaucrat for five years from 2019 to August 2024. His appointment comes with immediate effect and will continue until further orders.

Who is Rajiv Gauba?

Career and Background

Rajiv Gauba is a seasoned bureaucrat with vast experience in governance, policy-making, and administration. He has held multiple high-profile positions in the Indian government, playing a pivotal role in policy formulation and implementation.

Educational and Professional Background

• Batch: 1982
• Cadre: Jharkhand (JH)

Previous Positions:

• Cabinet Secretary of India (2019–2024)
• Union Home Secretary
• Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development
• Chief Secretary, Jharkhand
• Key Roles in the Central and State Governments

During his tenure as Cabinet Secretary, he was instrumental in handling critical national policies and overseeing the implementation of flagship government schemes.

What is NITI Aayog?

Role and Responsibilities of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the policy think tank of the Government of India, responsible for:

• Formulating long-term strategies for economic development.
• Promoting cooperative federalism by involving states in national decision-making.
• Acting as an advisory body to the Prime Minister on critical issues.
• Encouraging innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

Structure of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog comprises:

• Chairperson: Prime Minister of India
• Vice Chairperson: Appointed by the Prime Minister
• Full-Time Members (such as Rajiv Gauba)
• Part-Time Members and Ex-Officio Members (Union Ministers and Chief Ministers)
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Significance of Rajiv Gauba’s Appointment

Why is His Appointment Important?

1. Expertise in Governance: Gauba’s extensive administrative experience will strengthen the policy-making capacity of NITI Aayog.
2. Economic and Urban Development Knowledge: His previous role in urban development and governance will be crucial in shaping smart city initiatives and infrastructure projects.
3. Crisis Management Experience: His experience as Home Secretary and Cabinet Secretary during challenging periods like the COVID-19 pandemic will aid in developing robust crisis-management policies.
4. Strengthening Centre-State Relations: His past roles in both central and state governments will help bridge the gap between policy and implementation at state levels.

Summary of the News