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Senior economist and BJP leader Ashok Kumar Lahiri is likely to take over as the next deputy chairman of NITI Aayog, India’s top government think tank. Sources familiar with the development said that Lahiri is expected to replace Suman Bery, who currently holds the post.
The expected appointment comes at a politically significant time, particularly as the Bharatiya Janata Party continues to strengthen its presence in West Bengal. Officials also said that scientist Gobardhan Das may join the political body as a member. Formal announcements are still expected, but the move signals a possible change in economic policy leadership.
Who is Ashok Lahiri, the economist set to become deputy chairman of NITI Aayog?
Ashok Lahiri is a well-known economist and politician with decades of experience in economic policy and financial planning. He is currently serving as an MP from Balurghat in West Bengal but has decided not to contest the ongoing elections.
Lahiri gained national recognition for his work in economic reform and policymaking. Over the years, he has developed a reputation as an experienced economist who understands both government finance and global economic systems.
Why was Ashok Lahiri selected for the role of Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog?
Sources suggest that Lahiri’s long experience in financial policy and international economic institutions played an important role in his selection. His previous contributions to government decision-making made him a strong candidate to lead India’s premier policy think tank.
Officials believe his understanding of financial management and development strategies could help guide India’s future economic reforms. His appointment is also politically significant as it highlights leadership decisions related to key regions such as West Bengal.
Who is Gobardhan Das and what role will he play in NITI Aayog?
Besides Lahiri’s expected appointment, scientist Gobardhan Das is expected to join NITI Aayog as a new member. Das is a distinguished immunologist who previously worked at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi and later served as Director of IISER Bhopal.
Although he had previously contested elections in West Bengal, he did not win. However, his scientific and administrative background makes him a suitable candidate for contributions to policy discussions in areas such as research and development.
Who will Ashok Lahiri replace at NITI Aayog?
Ashok Lahiri is expected to replace Suman Bery, who has been the vice-chairman of NITI Aayog since May 2022. Bery held cabinet-level rank during his term and contributed to several policy initiatives.
Before joining NITI Aayog, Bery worked as a Global Fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington DC and maintained contacts with leading international research institutions.
Ashok Lahiri Career: From Chief Economic Advisor to Political Leadership
Ashok Lahiri was Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) to the Government of India from December 2002 to June 2007. He received the appointment during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Interestingly, he continued in this role even after a change in government and spent part of his tenure under the leadership of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. This continuity reflected confidence in his expertise across political administrations.
Ashok Lahiri training
Lahiri studied economics at the Presidency University in Calcutta, one of India’s most prestigious academic institutions.
He later held teaching and research positions at several major institutions, including the Delhi School of Economics. He also worked with global organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, gaining valuable international experience.
Ashok Lahiri Net Worth
Based on his 2021 West Bengal election affidavit, Indian economist and politician Ashok Kumar Lahiri reported total assets of more than ₹7.43 crore. He is a well-known figure who has held several senior positions including 12th Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India and Board Member of Bandhan Bank, among other key leadership positions.
Ashok Lahiri family
Despite his public roles, Ashok Lahiri leads a relatively private personal life. He has an academic and intellectual background that influenced his interest in economics and public policy.
He has largely kept details about his extended family away from the public, instead focusing on his professional contributions.
Ashok Lahiri’s wife
Information about Ashok Lahiri’s wife remains publicly available to a limited extent. The economist has not revealed any personal information about his spouse to maintain privacy in family matters.
Public records primarily emphasize his professional achievements rather than his personal relationships.
