In a key development in India’s policymaking space, noted economist Ashok Lahiri and scientist Gobardhan Das have been selected for top roles at NITI Aayog.
Lahiri has been named vice chairman of the government think tank, while Das will join as a member. Formal appointments are expected soon, according to government sources.
Currently a BJP MLA in West Bengal, Lahiri has previously served as Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India and was also a member of the 15th Finance Commission. He is not contesting the ongoing Assembly elections in the state. With this appointment, he will become the second-in-command at NITI Aayog after Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Das is currently the Director of Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal. Earlier, he served as professor and chair at the Special Centre for Molecular Medicine at Jawaharlal Nehru University.
The appointments bring 2 prominent figures from West Bengal into top policymaking roles, highlighting the state’s continued contribution to national leadership and intellectual thought.
Lahiri is widely regarded as one of India’s most experienced economists, with roles spanning policy advisory and global institutions such as the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, and IMF. An alumnus of Delhi School of Economics and Presidency University, he has long been associated with economic policy and governance.
Das is an internationally recognised molecular scientist with nearly 30 years of experience in immunology, infectious diseases, and cell biology. His research on tuberculosis pathogenesis has earned global recognition. His academic journey includes work at institutions such as Yale University, Houston Methodist Hospital, and research bodies in South Africa.
An alumnus of Visva-Bharati University, Das went on to become a professor at JNU before leading IISER Bhopal.
His personal journey adds to his professional achievements. Born to Hindu Dalit refugees from Bangladesh, Das grew up in difficult conditions in West Bengal. He studied under streetlights and faced significant personal loss, including the death of 17 family members in riots. His rise reflects resilience and commitment to nation-building.
The announcement comes at a time when West Bengal is witnessing a closely contested political environment, adding further significance to the development.
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