New Delhi, Two distinguished figures associated with West Bengal have been entrusted with significant responsibilities within NITI Aayog—the institution that plays a pivotal role in the country's policy-making process. Senior economist Ashok Lahiri has been appointed as the Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog, while renowned scientist Govardhan Das has been inducted as a Member. These appointments are being viewed as a strong representation of Bengal's intellectual tradition—characterized by expertise and a deep engagement in policy formulation.

Dr. Ashok Lahiri has previously served as the Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India and as a Member of the 15th Finance Commission. Meanwhile, Dr. Govardhan Das currently serves as the Director of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, and holds international recognition in the field of molecular sciences.

Four Decades of Experience; A Major Role in Policy Formulation

Established under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to replace the erstwhile Planning Commission, NITI Aayog has now emerged as the central hub for the country's development model and long-term policy strategies. In this context, Dr. Ashok Lahiri's assumption of the responsibility of Vice-Chairman is considered a significant development.

Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has held numerous key positions related to economic policy and administration. From serving as the Chief Economic Advisor to being a Member of the Finance Commission, he has played an instrumental role in shaping the country's economic trajectory. Furthermore, he has been associated with global institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

An alumnus of the Delhi School of Economics and Presidency University, Lahiri is regarded as a prominent face of Kolkata's intellectual tradition. He has long been an articulate advocate for West Bengal's economic development and policy reforms.

Suvendu Adhikari Expresses Delight

Suvendu Adhikari, a senior BJP leader from West Bengal, expressed his delight over Dr. Lahiri's appointment and extended his congratulations. Writing on the social media platform 'X' (formerly Twitter), he remarked that this is a moment of immense pride for the entire state of West Bengal.

He stated that Dr. Lahiri's wealth of experience—spanning his roles as an economist, a former Chief Economic Advisor, and a legislator—will provide fresh momentum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India). Dr. Goverdhan Das: A Prominent Name in the Scientific World

Dr. Goverdhan Das, who has been appointed as a member of NITI Aayog, is regarded as an internationally renowned scientist in the fields of molecular science and immunology. His research—spanning infectious diseases, cell biology, and specifically the pathogenesis of tuberculosis (TB)—has garnered global acclaim.

Over a scientific career spanning nearly three decades, he has collaborated with numerous prestigious institutions. He has been associated with organizations such as Yale University and Houston Methodist Hospital in the USA, as well as the University of KwaZulu-Natal and the National Research Foundation in South Africa.

After conducting research abroad for an extended period, he decided to return to India to contribute to the fields of education and research. He has also served as a Professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

The Journey from Struggle to the Pinnacle of Success

Dr. Goverdhan Das's life journey is regarded as a testament to both struggle and inspiration. He was born into a Hindu Dalit refugee family that had migrated from Bangladesh. Due to persecution, his family was forced to abandon everything and flee to India.

His childhood was spent in West Bengal, amidst financial hardship and challenging social circumstances. His father was a farmer, and due to a scarcity of resources, Dr. Das often had to study under the illumination of streetlights.

He also endured personal tragedies throughout his life; during riots that took place in West Bengal, he lost 17 members of his family. Yet, despite these myriad struggles, he carved out a global identity for himself in the realms of education and research.

His current appointment to NITI Aayog is now being hailed as a significant national recognition of a talent that has emerged from a background of social struggle, making its mark in the world of science and research.