Introduction: NITI Aayog (est. January 2015) replaced the Planning Commission (est. 1950) to better suit India's diverse federal needs.

NITI Aayog's Role:

• Policy think-tank and advisory body (not fund allocator)
• Promotes cooperative federalism — Chief Ministers in Governing Council
• Develops 15-Year Vision Document, 7-Year Strategy
• SDG India Index — monitors state-wise sustainable development

Key Differences:

• No Five-Year Plans — replaced by action agendas
• Bottom-up approach vs. top-down planning
• Advisory vs. directive role

Conclusion: NITI Aayog is better suited for India's federal democracy, though critics argue it lacks the Planning Commission's fiscal authority.