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With the appointment, Lahiri is expected to become the number two in the government think tank after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who serves as its Chairperson.
Ashok Kumar Lahiri.
The NITI Aayog is set to get veteran economist Ashok Kumar Lahiri as its new vice-chairperson, according to reports. With the appointment, Lahiri is expected to become the number two in the government think tank after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who serves as its Chairperson.
Lahiri, who will replace Suman Bery, is regarded as one of India’s experienced policy economists, with a career spanning more than four decades across government, global institutions and public finance bodies.
Former Chief Economic Advisor To Government Of India
Ashok Kumar Lahiri has held several key economic policy positions during his career. He served as chief economic advisor to the Government of India, a role that involves advising the finance ministry on macroeconomy, taxation, reforms and fiscal policy.
He has also been a member of the 15th Finance Commission, which made recommendations on tax devolution and financial relations between the Centre and states.
Experience With Global Institutions
Apart from domestic policymaking roles, Lahiri has worked with leading international institutions including the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and Asian Development Bank. This background gives him experience in development finance, global macroeconomics and institutional reforms.
Academic Background
Lahiri studied at Presidency University and the Delhi School of Economics, two well-known institutions in economics and higher education. He is originally from Kolkata and has often been associated with public policy discussions concerning West Bengal and national economic development.
Also Active In Politics
Ashok Kumar Lahiri is currently a BJP MLA in West Bengal. His appointment comes at a time when economic policy, state development and growth strategy remain key themes in public discourse.
What Will Be His Role At NITI Aayog?
As Vice-Chairperson of NITI Aayog, Lahiri is expected to help steer policy strategy linked to economic growth, investment, employment, infrastructure and Prime Minister Modi’s Viksit Bharat vision.
NITI Aayog functions as the apex public policy think tank of the Government of India and works on long-term reforms, cooperative federalism and development planning with states.
Why His Appointment Matters
Lahiri combines experience in academia, government, global institutions and politics — a rare mix for a policy role of this scale. His appointment may be closely watched by industry, economists and state governments for signals on future reform priorities, fiscal strategy and growth planning.
April 25, 2026, 2:05 PM IST
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