Wednesday

02-04-2025 Vol 19

The Virtuosity Index of NITI Aayog (नीति आयोग)

As entailed by #DeepSeek on the prompt To what extent 26 Daivi Sampadas mentioned in Bhagwad Gita have found their incorporation in the Policy Matrix of NITI Aayog.

The 26 Daivi Sampadas (divine qualities) mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 16, Verses 1–3) represent virtues such as fearlessness, purity of heart, self-control, non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion, among others.

These qualities are deeply rooted in Indian spiritual and ethical traditions.

While the NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is a policy think tank focused on economic development, governance, and sustainable growth, its policy matrix is primarily driven by data, evidence, and contemporary socio-economic challenges rather than explicitly incorporating spiritual or philosophical principles.

However, there are indirect alignments between the Daivi Sampadas and the values embedded in NITI Aayog’s policies.

Here’s an analysis of the extent to which these divine qualities may have found incorporation:

#Fearlessness (Abhayam)

Alignment
NITI Aayog’s focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk-taking in policies like Startup India and Atal Innovation Mission encourages fearlessness in pursuing new ideas and solutions.

Policy Example
Promoting a culture of innovation and supporting startups to overcome challenges.


#PurityOfHeart (Sattva Samshuddhi)

Alignment
Emphasis on transparency and accountability in governance, such as through the Digital India initiative and anti-corruption measures.

Policy Example
Use of technology to reduce corruption and ensure clean governance.


#SelfControl (Dama)

Alignment
Policies promoting sustainable development and resource management, such as the
National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture and Water Conservation initiatives.

Policy Example
Encouraging responsible consumption and environmental stewardship.


Non-Violence (Ahimsa)

Alignment
Social welfare schemes like the National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyan)
and healthcare initiatives aim to reduce suffering and promote well-being.

Policy Example
Focus on reducing malnutrition and improving healthcare access.


Truthfulness (Satya)

Alignment
Data-driven policy making and evidence-based approaches in
NITI Aayog’s reports and recommendations.

Policy Example
Use of real-time data for monitoring and evaluation of schemes.


#Compassion (Dayā)

Alignment
Welfare schemes like Ayushman Bharat (health insurance for the poor) and
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (affordable housing) reflect compassion for marginalized sections.

Policy Example
Ensuring healthcare and housing for all.


#AbsenceOfAnger (Akrodha)

Alignment
Conflict resolution and peace-building initiatives in governance, though not explicitly stated, are implicit in maintaining social harmony.

Policy Example
Promoting inclusive growth to reduce socio-economic disparities.


#Renunciation (Tyāga)

Alignment
Policies encouraging voluntary giving and community participation,
such as the Swachh Bharat Mission (Clean India Mission).

Policy Example
Encouraging citizens to contribute to cleanliness and environmental conservation.


#Tranquility (Shanti)

Alignment
Focus on mental health and well-being through initiatives like the
National Mental Health Programme.

Policy Example
Addressing mental health issues and promoting holistic well-being.


#NonCovetousness (Aparigraha)

Alignment
Sustainable development goals and policies promoting resource efficiency and minimal waste.

Policy Example
Circular economy initiatives and waste management programs.


#Gentleness (Mārdavam)

Alignment
Inclusive policies for vulnerable groups, such as women, children, and the elderly.

Policy Example
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) and elderly care schemes.


#Modesty (Hri)

Alignment
Promoting humility in governance through participatory approaches and grassroots involvement.

Policy Example
Panchayati Raj institutions and local self-governance.


#Steadfastness (Dhriti)

Alignment
Long-term vision documents like the Strategy for New India @75 and
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Policy Example
Commitment to achieving long-term developmental targets.


#Forgiveness (Kshama)

Alignment
Restorative justice and rehabilitation programs, though not explicitly highlighted,
are part of the broader justice system.

Policy Example
Juvenile justice and rehabilitation schemes.


#Patience (Titiksha)

Alignment: Gradual implementation of reforms and policies,
such as the GST rollout and agricultural reforms.

Policy Example
Phased approach to complex economic reforms.


#Cleanliness (Shaucha)

Alignment
Swachh Bharat Mission and initiatives for sanitation and hygiene.

Policy Example
Achieving open defecation-free status and promoting cleanliness.


#AbsenceOfMalice (Adroha)

Alignment
Policies promoting social harmony and inclusivity,
such as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

Policy Example
Encouraging cultural exchange and unity in diversity.


#AbsenceOfPride (Na Atimanita)

Alignment
Focus on inclusive growth and reducing inequalities through schemes like
MGNREGA and National Social Assistance Programme.

Policy Example
Empowering marginalized communities.


#Wisdom (Jnana)

Alignment
Emphasis on education and skill development through initiatives like Skill India and
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Policy Example
Promoting lifelong learning and knowledge-based growth.


#Charity (Dāna)

Alignment
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mandates and philanthropic initiatives
encouraged by the government.

Policy Example
Encouraging private sector participation in social welfare.


#Courage (Shaurya)

Alignment
Policies promoting self-reliance and resilience,
such as Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

Policy Example
Strengthening domestic manufacturing and reducing import dependence.


#Generosity (Dākshya)

Alignment
Social security schemes and disaster relief programs.

Policy Example
Providing financial assistance during natural calamities.


#Humility (Vinaya)

Alignment
Participatory governance and citizen engagement in policymaking.

Policy Example
Public consultations and feedback mechanisms.


#Integrity (Ārjava)

Alignment
Anti-corruption measures and transparency in governance.

Policy Example
Digital governance and e-governance initiatives.


#Faith (Shraddha)

Alignment
Trust-building through consistent and reliable governance.

Policy Example
Delivering on promises and ensuring scheme effectiveness.


#RespectForOthers (Māna)

Alignment
Policies promoting diversity, inclusion, and respect for all communities.

Policy Example
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat and cultural preservation initiatives.


Conclusion

While NITI Aayog’s policy matrix is not explicitly designed around the #DaiviSampadas,
many of these divine qualities are implicitly reflected in its focus on
inclusive, sustainable, and ethical governance.

The alignment is more philosophical and value-based rather than direct,
as NITI Aayog operates within a modern, secular framework.

However, the underlying ethos of these virtues can be seen in the emphasis on
#welfare, #transparency, and #holisticdevelopment.

ReTHINK INDIA