New Delhi: Chaitanyaa Nair, a policy intern at NITI Aayog, has shared her transformative experience of working with one of India’s premier government think tanks. Over an eight-week stint focused on higher education, Nair discovered a dynamic and innovative work culture that shattered her preconceived notions about government operations.
“Like everyone else, I used to think the government was slow and bureaucratic, but working at NITI Aayog completely changed my mind,” she said.
According to Nair, the work environment at NITI Aayog is characterized by quick turnaround times, weekend work, and the management of multiple projects simultaneously. Far from the stereotype of “government babus,” Nair found the office filled with “A players” driven by tight deadlines and a passion for innovation.
Innovation at the Forefront
Nair highlighted the cutting-edge initiatives at NITI Aayog, such as the NITI for States Platform, which provides comprehensive data across various sectors—health, education, and tourism—on a single platform. She also praised the Viksit Bharat Strategy Room, which integrates advanced technology and user-friendly experiences to aid policymaking.
“Every floor, every corner, every nook is about proactive research. They don’t wait for problems to arise—they anticipate hypothetical ‘what-ifs’ and start making policies immediately,” Nair explained.
Breaking Stereotypes
The collaborative culture at NITI Aayog stood out to Nair. Unlike the traditional hierarchical image of government offices, consultants, young professionals, and interns work together seamlessly. “We even took little hangman game breaks together,” she added.
The think tank also collaborates extensively with private firms such as PwC and KPMG on public-private partnership projects, ensuring global ideas align with local needs.
Aspirational Goals
One of the key focus areas Nair mentioned was NITI Aayog’s work on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through programs like the Aspirational Districts Program, NITI is tackling socio-economic challenges in underdeveloped districts, creating meaningful impact at both global and local levels.
Reflecting on her experience, Nair remarked, NITI Aayog is as plugged into the present as any top tech startup. This experience was not just an internship—it was an eye-opener into how the government can lead innovation and change.
Her insights offer a glimpse into the fast-paced, forward-thinking approach that defines NITI Aayog, challenging the outdated perceptions of government work in India.
