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State Support Mission

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A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 1 “We must align our
aspirations and our efforts
to ensure that the 21
st

century, destined to be the
century of Bharat, becomes
a ‘Swarnim Bharat’ (Golden
India), and make ‘Viksit
Bharat’ in this century and
advance towards fulfilling
those dreams.”
Hon’ble Prime Minister A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 2 A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 3 A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 4 A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 5 A Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops Table of Contents
Preface��1
List of Abbreviations ��2
Introduction��6
National Consultation on Strengthening School Health Services��9
Enabling Women-led development– Reaching the last mile��12
Building State-level Innovation Ecosystems: A Peer-learning Workshop��15
Boosting Healthcare Infrastructure: Catalyzing Opportunities for
Investment and Public Private Partnerships��19
Development of net-zero roadmaps at state-level�� 22
Harnessing the Potential of Fisheries in Marine states��25
Leveraging State Data Ecosystems for State and District-Level Policy and Planning��29
Rejuvenation of Water Bodies��33
National Workshop on the Learnings of Project SATH-Education
– SATH Interventions for school education transformation��35
Harnessing Fisheries Potential in Inland states��37
Promoting Livelihoods through International Mobility of Skilled Workers��40
Empowering E-Mobility in Indian Cities: Developing 100 EV Ready Cities��45
Regional Workshop - Enabling Women-led development– reaching the last mile ��50
Penetrating Global Value Chains: India’s Potential and Prospects��53
SDGs with all the States/UTs Planning Secretaries/Heads of SDG Cells��56
State as a driver of Export Led Growth��59
Improving the Innovation Aptitude and performance of the States and Union Territories��62
National Workshop on Strengthening Mental Health Services and Care in India��66
Accelerating Manufacturing Growth in India��69
Expanding Quality Higher Education through State Public Universities��74 A Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 1
Preface
With the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, an attempt is made to bring together all the stakeholders
and citizens to work for the larger objective of making India developed on the 100
th
anniversary
of Indian independence. NITI Aayog with its core mandates of strengthening cooperative
and competitive federalism premeditated to strengthen planning by ensuring institutional
transformation. Recognising the significance of States/UTs to further socio-economic growth, NITI
Aayog launched the scheme of State Support Mission (SSM) to foster collaborative efforts for
strategic implementation of National Development Agendas.
The central sector scheme, SSM is an umbrella initiative with the primary objective to assist States/
UTs in achieving their socio-economic goals by 2047. The mission has been strategically designed
to support States/UTs in developing a roadmap aligned with national priorities and their core
strengths. States have varying capacities in driving socio-economic reforms. There is scope for the
States’/UTs’ Planning Departments to reinvent themselves as State Institutions for Transformation
(SIT) that can play a crucial role in galvanizing partnerships, resources, ideas and synergies to
drive inclusive growth. The SITs should eventually be all-encompassing resource centres which
will design strategic and development strategies and implement them with a vision of achieving
medium term Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030 and a long-term vision of India @ 2047.
Under SSM, a series of workshops were conducted in the FY 2023-24 under the brand – “NITI-
State Workshop Series” which focused on themes relevant to State Development and other areas
of National and Global interest. These Workshops were planned and organised in consultation and
collaboration with respective Central Ministries/Department, concerned State/UT Government,
concerned vertical/division of NITI Aayog and development partners.
The workshops provided a platform for different stakeholders including States Governments,
district administration, block officials, multi-lateral organisations and development partners to
collaborate and cross-learn on relevant themes of socio-economic development. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 2
List of Abbreviations
NITI National Institute for Transforming India
SSMState Support Mission
UTUnion Territory
SITState Institutions for Transformation
SDGSustainable Development Goals
MSMEMicro, Small & Medium Enterprise
SATHSustainable Action for Transforming Human capital
EVElectric Vehicle
RBSK Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram
RKSKRashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram
ASHAAccredited Social Health Activist
NCERTNational Council of Educational Research and Training
JNVJawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya
CBSECentral Board of Secondary Education
UNICEFUnited Nations Children’s Fund
WHOWorld Health Organization
UNFPAUnited Nations Population Fund
BMGFBill and Melinda Gates Foundation
PATHProgram for Appropriate Technology in Health
MoHFWMinistry of Health and Family Welfare
WEPWomen Entrepreneurship Platform
CSIRCouncil of Scientific and Industrial Research
NIONational Institute of Oceanography
SHGsSelf-Help Groups
SIDBISmall Industries Development Bank of India
ATRAward To Reward
AICAtal Incubation Centres
C-CAMPCentre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms
PPPPublic Private Partnership
RBIReserve Bank of India
NABARDNational Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
CIIConfederation of Indian Industry
SBIState Bank of India A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 3
VGFViability Gap Funding
OPEXOperating Expenses
UPUttar Pradesh
SSWSState Single Window System
PMJAYPradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
PGPost Graduation
NDCNationally Determined Contributions
UNFCCCUnited Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
GDPGross Domestic Product
RERevised Estimates
CCUSCarbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage
CoEsCentres of Excellence
IESSIndia Energy Security Scenarios
MSDEMinistry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
MMPAMigration and Mobility Partnership Agreements
NCSNational Career Service
PKVYPravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana
LMALabour Mobility Agreements
MD Managing Director
GPCLGujarat Power Corporation Limited
MMTMillion Metric Tons
APGCLAssam Power Generation Corporation Limited
GMGeneral Manager
KREDLKarnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited
CEEWCouncil on Energy, Environment and Water
WRIWorld Resources Institute
J&KJammu & Kashmir
ICARIndian Council of Agricultural Research
CMFRICentral Marine Fisheries Research Institute
NFDBNational Fisheries Development Board
MSCMarine Stewardship Council
MPEDAMarine Products Export Development Authority
CIFTCentral Institute of Fisheries Technology
BOBP-IGOBay of Bengal Programme Inter-Governmental Organization
M&EMonitoring & Evaluation A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 4
NDAPNational Data Analytics Platform
NDSAPNational Data Sharing and Accessibility Policy
SOPsStandard Operating Procedures
NDGPNational Data Governance Framework Policy
IDMOIndia Data Management Office
DBTDirect Benefit Transfer
LGDLocal Government Directory
MRSACMaharashtra Remote Sensing Application Centre
CDAPCity Data Analytics Platform
ATECFA.T.E. Chandra Foundation
RWBRejuvenation of Waterbodies
IWMIInternational Water Management Institute
IECInformation, Education & Communication
GISGeographic Information System
NEPNational Education Policy
NIEPAThe National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration
MSDFMichael & Susan Dell Foundation
BCGBoston Consulting Group
ONDCOpen Network for Digital Commerce
ILOInternational Labour Organization
IOMInternational Organization for Migration
ICMPDInternational Centre for Migration Policy Development
FPOFarmer Producer Organization
GUVIGrab Ur Vernacular Imprints
KASEKerala Academy for Skills Excellence
NBCsNuclear Breeding Centres
BMCsBroodstock Multiplication Centres
R&DResearch and Development
FSPFuture Skills Prime
VETVocational Education and Training
CCOChief Commercial Officer
ICMPDInternational Centre for Migration Policy Development
GSTGoods and Services Tax
MoFAH&DMinistry of Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairying
PLIProduction Link Incentive A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 5
ADPAspirational Districts Programme
ABPAspirational Blocks Programme
E-FASTElectric Freight Accelerator for Sustainable Transport
MHIMinistry of Heavy Industries
MoHUAMinistry of Housing and Urban Affairs
BISBureau of Indian Standards
EODBEase of Doing Business
RITESRail India Technical and Economic Service
NREDCAPNew & Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh
NHEVNational Highways for Electric Vehicles
GIZDeutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
IBSAIndia Battery Swapping Association
ICLEIInternational Council for Local Environmental Initiatives
RMIRocky Mountain Institute
RBMLReliance BP Mobility Limited
ICCTInternational Council on Clean Transportation
GTGrand Tourer
CALSTRATCalifornia Strategies, LLC
PM E-BusPrime Minister Electric Bus Sewa
ICAI Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
NASSCOMNational Association of Software and Services Companies
FICCIFederation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry
UNCRCUnited Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
FLOFICCI Ladies Organization
UNDPUnited Nations Development Programme
UNUnited Nations
SELCOSolar Electric Light Company
GVCGlobal Value Chains
MEITYMinistry of Electronics and Information Technology
DPIITDepartment for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 6
Introduction
State Support Mission is a central sector scheme that supports States/UTs to establish State
Institutions for Transformation (SITs) which can act as multi-disciplinary resource centers to
steer their development strategies. While States/UTs follow different paths for development,
these paths are to be aligned with national priorities for achieving inclusive development.
Better governance and stronger institutions in the States/UTs are crucial for India to achieve
high and inclusive growth over a sustained period. SITs may comprise officials from State/UT
governments and lateral entrants with sector specific expertise. All interested States and UTs
will be covered under the Mission.
NITI Aayog assists interested States/UTs to establish State Institution for Transformation (SIT)
or reimagine the role of existing State Planning Departments/Boards, that can act as a multi-
disciplinary resource to steer the development strategies in the States/UTs. Further, as part
of the mission, NITI Aayog organise meetings/workshops/conferences/consultation with key
stakeholders from eminent institutions, think tanks, multi-lateral agencies, civil society, etc. to
bring their expertise and sectoral domain knowledge to support the Mission.
NITI-State Workshop Series was conceptualised under SSM as part of its objectives of
strategic engagement and collaboration with States/UTs. To facilitate the core mandates of
cooperative and competitive federalism, the workshops were designed on themes relevant
to socio economic development of the States/UTs and other emerging areas of national
and global interest. They provided a unified platform for partnerships, cross-learning and
knowledge sharing on key development issues concerning States/UTs by sharing Policy
insights and Good Governance Practices etc. across States and UTs. These workshops were
anchored by Verticals /Divisions of NITI Aayog.
The objectives of the NITI-State Workshop Series was to encourage States, Districts and
Blocks to initiate the process of embarking on the transformative path towards the attainment
of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, while placing emphasis on the fundamental domains of National
significance; to establish precise delineations of the localised domains of States and integrate
them harmoniously with overarching thematic constructs, in order to enhance coherence
and comprehension of pivotal concerns; and to facilitate holistic development with plans and
strategies at State, District and Block levels, with the aim of realizing the broader objectives
of SSM.
The Workshops were planned in different regions of the country over a course of a year.
NITI Aayog anchored the workshops along with its verticals and interested States/UTs as
per their sector/subject of interest and priority. The workshops ensured participation from all
concerned stakeholders at National, State, District and Block levels. They were a combination
of sessions, discussions and field/site visits to encourage practical learning. Verticals of NITI
Aayog and interested States/UTs were requested to propose their area of interest and plan
for the workshop in coordination with SSM Division. The major focus sectors were Education,
Health, Livelihoods, Employment & Skilling, Water & Sanitation, Urbanization, Energy,
Manufacturing, MSME, Agriculture, Sustainable Development Goals, Gender & Social Inclusion,
Digital Technology, Monitoring & Evaluation, Innovation and Climate.
The workshops were a huge success in adding value to the policy sphere. They ensured
demonstration of policies and best practices to facilitate knowledge transfer and ensure
potential adoption by other States/UTs, thereby promoting service delivery efficacy. Through
participation from subject experts, collaboration and dialogue facilitated information
gathering for the future. These workshops become a platform for enhancing skills and A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 7
knowledge of concerned stakeholders through interactive sessions and field exposure and
create a knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurial support system for Central Ministries and
States/UTs.
Comprehensive reports and White Papers summarizing the discussions, findings, and
recommendations of workshops, serving as authoritative resources for decision-makers,
academia, and the public were tangible outcomes of the workshops. They also added value to
the comprehensive NITI for State Platform enabling the dissemination of valuable information
& data to different stakeholders in the State/UTs.
It is imperative to recognise the contribution and efforts of the Divisions of NITI Aayog to
collectively collaborate for the fulfilment of the objectives of SSM. Therefore, this compendium
is a compilation of the successful workshops conducted across India in FY 2023-24 on
significant issues and themes which were pertinent for the vision of Viksit States and Viksit
Bharat. All the issues concerning different sectors and sub-sectors covered by the workshops
have facilitated learnings and impactful outcomes for States/UTs. In the bid to continue the
inventiveness, another set of workshops are organised in FY 2024-25 to further the hard work
of NITI Aayog towards the vision and mission of Viksit Bharat @2047.
In FY 2023-24, the following workshops were conducted under NITI-State Workshop Series:
1 National Consultation on Strengthening School Health Services
2
Regional Workshop - Enabling Women-led development– reaching the
last mile (Goa)
3 Building State-level Innovation Ecosystems: A Peer-learning Workshop
4
Boosting Healthcare Infrastructure: Catalyzing Opportunities for
Investment and Public Private Partnerships
5 Development of net-zero roadmaps at state-level
6 Harnessing the Potential of Fisheries in Marine states
7
Leveraging State Data Ecosystems for State and District-Level Policy
and Planning
8 Water Conservation: Rejuvenation of Water Bodies
9
National Workshop on the Learnings of Project SATH-Education –
SATH Interventions for school education transformation
10 Harnessing Fisheries Potential in Inland states
11
Promoting Livelihoods through International Mobility of Skilled
Workers
12
Empowering E-Mobility in Indian Cities: Developing 100 EV Ready
Cities
13
Regional Workshop - Enabling Women-led development– reaching the
last mile (Arunachal Pradesh)
14 Penetrating Global Value Chains: India’s Potential and Prospects A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 8
15 SDGs with all the States/UTs Planning Secretaries/Heads of SDG Cells
16 State as a driver of Export Led Growth
17
Improving the Innovation Aptitude and performance of the States and
Union Territories
18
National Workshop on Strengthening Mental Health Services and Care
in India
19 Accelerating Manufacturing Growth in India
20 Expanding Quality Higher Education through State Public Universities A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 9
National Consultation on Strengthening
School Health Services
New Delhi
India is home to the largest population of children and adolescents (<18 years) in the world. If
India has to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of good health and well-being
for everyone at all ages, the unique needs of this population group must be prioritised. There
is a growing trend of health issues among school-age children, including anemia, nutritional
deficiencies, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental and behavioral health issues,
reproductive health, and other physical issues, all of which require a comprehensive approach
to address. The Hon’ble PM of India mentioned in the Second National Conference of Chief
Secretaries held from 5–7 January 2023, at New Delhi that “School health programmes need
to be strengthened throughout the Country. Therefore, RBSK and RKSK need to be integrated.
Link between ASHAs and schools in their area needs to be established. The weight, height,
vaccination status, etc., of students at the time of school admission in Primary Schools need
to be recorded for regular follow-up under RBSK and RKSK”
Both the National Health Policy 2017 and the National Education Policy 2020 emphasise the
need for increased focus on investment and initiatives aimed at improving school health. NITI
Aayog reviewed and worked on revamping the ongoing health programmes that cater to the
needs of the children and adolescents, to make them more comprehensive and holistic. It was
felt that there is an urgent need for a comprehensive school health program to ensure better
learning outcomes and also to address the health needs of the population from a very early
age. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 10
The on-ground experiences of States/UTs in delivering these programmes are crucial
in understanding the challenges and identifying scope for improvement. Accordingly,
the Health Vertical of NITI Aayog conducted this workshop with States/UTs to share
learnings and collaboratively develop the way forward in providing more comprehensive
and holistic care to children and adolescents in India. The workshops had participation
from various fronts including, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Ministry of Education,
Ministry of Ayush, Ministry of WCD, the related autonomous bodies - NCERT, JNV, CBSE,
etc., multilateral agencies - UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, etc. and the development partners: BMGF,
PATH, etc. All States & UTs participated in the workshop except two UTs namely Dadra &
Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu and Lakshadweep.
CEO, NITI Aayog set the context for the consultation by highlighting the importance of
prioritizing the health needs of children in the age group of 6-18 years, as they will eventually
form part of the human capital of the Amrit Kaal generation for a Smart and Healthy India.
Member (Health) NITI Aayog Dr. V. K. Paul urged everyone to look at schooling through the
lens of optimal health of children.
NITI Aayog and MoHFW presented on the current scenario, existing programmes, challenges
and the intended outcomes of a comprehensive school health programme. A broad framework
of six pillars of school health was introduced. The workshop also saw the participation of
Secretary M/o Ayush, Secretary (School Education), M/o Education and Additional Secretary,
M/o Health & Family Welfare.
The sessions of the workshop focused on discussion on six main areas for strengthening and
sought input from different stakeholders, which included (i) Health & Nutrition Education
through Curriculum and Extra-curricular Activities, (ii) Yoga, Physical Education and Wellness,
(iii) Health Promoting School Ecosystem, (iv) Mental Health Promotion, Counselling and
Support, (v) Health Check-ups, Referral and Treatment, and (vi) First aid, Acute Care and
Special Provisioning.
Outcomes
• NITI Aayog identified 06 pillars for strengthening School Health services. The specific
inputs and experiences were shared by the line Ministries, State/UT officials, multilateral, A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 11
Development partners, Teachers, and academic institutions, among others, against
each identified pillar. Written submissions/ inputs were also received from many
stakeholders.
• Some of the important input received during the workshop are summarised below:
»Health and Nutrition Education should have a separate period in the time table
and should be added as a specific subject which has periodic examinations that
are marked. Greater focus should be given to the consumption of nutritious and
healthy diets.
»Teachers should be trained in health, nutrition, and mental health.
»A separate school health counsellor/nurse should be added to the programme.
»Health check-ups should also focus on non-communicable diseases like obesity,
diabetes, anaemia, etc, and learning disorders.
»A comprehensive health examination should take place at the time of school
admission.
»Preliminary check-ups can be done by school teachers (weight, height, BMI,
etc).
» Health and Wellness Centres (HWC) should be linked with schools. A universal
database of children can be created to track the screening of children and
identify children who have not been screened.
»In the context of mental health, dedicated IEC campaigns to remove the stigma
around mental health and counselling should be done in school. The privacy
of children and adolescents seeking mental health counselling should be
ensured. Special focus is needed to address issues of substance abuse.
»Schools should have a bouquet of extra-curricular activities/hobbies for children
to participate in, like, music, dance, drama, home science, carpentry, etc.  There
should be an increased focus on Yoga and sports.
»There should be a separate health and wellness counselling room. Students
should be made Health Champs. Good school infrastructure such as clean
toilets, drinking water, and sanitation should be prioritised. Standards need to
be developed for schools to ensure a clean, green, and safe environment.
»Greater involvement of parents through Parent Teacher Meetings (PTM) needs
to be ensured.
»Schools should have school health clubs, which should also include parents’
representation.
»Health data collected can be linked to UDISE to avoid duplication of efforts.
Real-time data can be monitored at the National level.
»A holistic Report Card for students consisting of extracurricular activities and a
health report of the child should be introduced.
• Subsequent to the workshop, based on the inputs received in the workshop, an extensive
exercise in terms of a series of consultations and meetings with relevant stakeholders,
literature review, etc. was undertaken and a framework for a comprehensive Ayushman
Bharat School Health Mission has been formulated. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 12
Enabling Women-led development–
Reaching the last mile
Dona Paula, Goa
The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) was launched in 2018 as an aggregator platform
on a public-private partnership model to build a comprehensive ecosystem supporting women
entrepreneurs across India. WEP aims at empowering women entrepreneurs by overcoming
information asymmetry and providing continuum of support across different pillars- Access
to Finance; Market Linkages; Training and Skilling; Mentoring & Networking; Compliance &
Legal Assistance and Business Development Services.
The inaugural edition of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) – NITI Aayog State
Workshop Series on Enabling Women-led Development through Entrepreneurship was
organised at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) Auditorium, Goa on 3rd October
2023. The workshop was held in collaboration with the Government of Goa with a focus on
the western region of the country.
Eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. V. K.
Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, Shri B.V.R Subramanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog, and other senior
officers of NITI Aayog graced the workshop with their presence.
The workshop recorded over 500 participants, including state government officials, women
entrepreneurs, local self-help groups (SHGs) and clusters, government officials, industry
representatives, incubators/accelerators, financial institutions such as SIDBI, philanthropic
foundations such as Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Reliance Foundation, Piramal Foundation,
Ola Foundation, etc.
The role of states in fostering women entrepreneurship is pivotal to ensuring last-mile
connectivity and creating a sustainable support ecosystem. The primary focus was deliberating
on a hub-and-spoke model aimed at extending women-led development to grassroots levels,
covering the last mile. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 13
The workshop has reinforced the importance of state-level implementation and encouraged
key stakeholders to actively participate in this initiative for establishing the Goa state chapter.
The formation of a Steering Committee by the State, mirroring the central model of WEP,
is a significant step in this direction. This committee will play a crucial role in identifying
regional challenges, facilitating policy interventions, and enhancing capacity-building efforts
for women entrepreneurs.
With Goa taking proactive steps in this initiative, the impact of such engagements is expected
to translate into greater visibility, stronger networks, and improved access to financial and
market linkages for women entrepreneurs. The collaborative efforts between the state and
WEP will further amplify the mission of empowering women and fostering an inclusive
entrepreneurial ecosystem. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 14
Outcomes
The primary focus of the workshop was deliberating on a hub-and-spoke model aimed at
extending women-led development to grassroots levels, covering the last mile. A series of
new collaborations were announced to support women entrepreneurs including the launch of
the first Award to Reward (ATR) cohort of WEP.
• Flagship Initiatives Launch: The workshop successfully enhanced awareness about
WEP and introduced flagship initiatives in Goa. Several collaborations were announced,
including partnerships with ICAI and Udyam Uplift, along with the launch of the first
two cohorts under WEP’s ATR initiative. The first ATR cohort led by WEP Partners
Microsave Consulting and SIDBI titled WEP-Unnati for green entrepreneurs pan-India.
The second cohort was titled WeNurture led by Atal Incubation Centre - Goa Institute
of Management.
• State-level Engagement and Institutional Framework for last-mile reach: WEP’s
engagement at the state level was announced, fostering cooperative federalism by
uniting key stakeholders from state-level hubs, incubators, and accelerators.
• Inter-stakeholder Convergence: Cross-sector collaboration was facilitated, paving the
way for a robust ecosystem.
• Government Commitments: Hon’ble Chief Minister announced the Swayampurna
e-bazaar during Dussehra, expanding market access. CEO, NITI Aayog reaffirmed the
central government’s commitment to women-led development and support for state-
level institutions. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 15
Building State-level Innovation
Ecosystems: A Peer-learning Workshop
Bengaluru, Karnataka
Within a mere seven-years span, India has seen a commendable advancement from the 81st to
the 39th position on the Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking, reflecting our evolving innovation
ecosystem. The initiatives focused towards promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship by
ministries and departments have been at the forefront of leading this revolution. Achieving
the next milestone of Top 25 rank requires an inclusive, concerted and collective approach to
further develop India’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship (I&E) ecosystems.
It’s noteworthy that all Indian states and UTs have initiated efforts to fortify their I&E frameworks,
further augmented by initiatives from the Central Government’s ministries and departments
like yours. As a result, diverse state-specific models with invaluable lessons are emerging, and
there exists a rich opportunity to foster peer learning.
In order to strengthen these existing initiatives at the state level, Atal Innovation Mission
(AIM) under the aegis of NITI Aayog orchestrated a pivotal workshop titled “Building State-
level Innovation Ecosystems: A Peer-learning Workshop” between 6th November 2023 to 7th
November 2023 in Bengaluru.
The workshop aimed at participation from the heads of schemes and initiatives by states and
Union Territories (UTs) to foster an inclusive and progressive dialogue. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 16
Key Sessions
The workshop two-day workshop entailed As-Is presentation by all 28 participating States/ UTs
along with 8+ central govt. ministries along with some international experts. The representatives
were then engaged through various brainstorming sessions where they exchanged ideas and
strategies to level up the current ecosystem of startups and entrepreneurship.
1.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Presentation: Presentations by the State
representatives on their respective Innovation and Entrepreneurship ecosystems.
2. Collaboration Initiatives: Workshops and interactive sessions focused on fostering
collaboration for a robust innovation ecosystem. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 17
3. Policy Frameworks: Expert panels and dialogues analysing effective policies driving
innovation and entrepreneurship at the state level.
After the workshop the participants visited AIC-Jyothy and C-CAMP, two Incubators in the
Bangalore area to get first-hand experience of the incubation facilities. There were 150+
Participants across 28 States and UTs and 8+ Central Ministries / Depts. All States / UTs agreed
to continue this initiative through monthly virtual connects & Regional in person sessions to
be hosted by respective States / UTs
Outcomes
The workshop generated substantial outcomes, fostering agreements and commitments
for joint projects among States/UTs to enhance cross-state innovation. It also led to the
formulation of comprehensive policy recommendations supporting innovation at the state
level and strengthened networks for future collaboration, knowledge exchange, and best
practices sharing. Participants lauded the collaborative atmosphere, knowledge-sharing, and
practical insights, with some suggesting more interactive sessions for deeper engagement.
The workshop underscored the critical importance of cross-state collaboration and the need
for adaptable policy frameworks to sustain and scale innovation initiatives. Some important
points are as: A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 18
• Collaborative Initiatives: Officials discussed agreements and commitments towards
joint projects between States/UTs to enhance cross-state innovation.
• Policy Recommendations: Formulation of comprehensive policy recommendations to
support and nurture innovation at the state level.
• Networking: Strengthening of networks for future collaboration, knowledge exchange,
and best practices sharing among states and ministries.
Moving forward, implementation plans involve incorporating collaborative initiatives into
the action plans of respective States/UTs and refining policies based on the workshop’s
recommendations. Building on the success, there is a keen interest in exploring opportunities
for future collaborative events and knowledge-sharing platforms, setting the stage for
continued efforts in fostering innovation and collaboration. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 19
Boosting Healthcare Infrastructure:
Catalyzing Opportunities for Investment
and Public Private Partnerships
New Delhi
A workshop on ‘Boosting Private Healthcare Infrastructure: Catalysing Opportunities for
Investments and Public Private Partnerships’ was held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi under
the State Support Mission of NITI Aayog. The objective of the workshop was to bring together
States/UTs with stakeholders in the Healthcare Industry to discuss and delve into key issues
underlying the existing gaps in healthcare infrastructure in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The
workshop facilitated a comprehensive discussion on investment opportunities, regulatory
hurdles, financing mechanisms, workforce shortages, and public private partnerships (PPP)
models, with a focus on identifying actionable solutions.
The workshop highlighted the best practices of States such as UP and Odisha, and brought
forth the need for better information dissemination on the Viability Gap Funding (VGF)
scheme, streamlined compliance processes, increased private sector involvement in medical
training, and improved healthcare infrastructure data mapping. The discussions emphasised
practical solutions to accelerate investments and expand quality healthcare access in
underserved regions, fostering collaboration between policymakers, financial institutions, and
private sector players.
The stakeholder and participants included senior officers from States & UT’s Health
Departments; Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Department of Economic Affairs, RBI
National and Regional Hospital Entities; Industry Investors, NABARD, CII, SBI, FICCI and India
Banks Association. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 20
The State Government of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Goa, Jharkhand,
Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil
Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand along with the UTs of Chandigarh, Delhi and
Puducherry. Organisations like Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP), Association of
Healthcare Providers Private Hospitals, Nursing Homes Association (Karnataka), Association
of Hospitals of Eastern India and National Health Authority also participated in the workshops.
Outcomes
Focus of the Workshop was to understand the reasons for gaps in healthcare infrastructure in
Tier 2 and 3 cities (including lack in uptake of PPP projects and VGF Scheme) and to identify
potential solutions and areas that need further examination/analysis to move towards greater
number and quality of healthcare facilities:
• VGF Scheme: Concerns about ineffective information dissemination raised by States
and private sector participants. Information about the particulars of the Scheme - sub-
scheme for the health sector - needs to be more effectively percolated. Such that more
and more States and projects avail the same just as the states of Odisha and UP have.
Suggestions about revisions in the Scheme received, need further deliberation and
to be appropriately addressed: Ceiling on the overall grant amount (instead of pre-
specified ceilings on / allocation of capital and operations grants) – concern that the
OPEX of a hospital particularly in tier 2 and 3 cities is not very predictable; Assurance
with respect to patient numbers from Project Authority.
• PPP: Need for model bid documents for more and different kinds of PPP models in
healthcare expressed by states. Investment Meets focussing on Health sector in states
– NITI Aayog can work on facilitating the same, inter alia, for healthcare infra projects
(‘medicities’ et al.).
• Financing (Banks): Availability of capital is not an issue (per submission of SBI and
Quadria Capital). But mechanisms are needed to embolden interest among smaller
players, encouraging them to invest and set up facilities. Potential of NABARD in
financing of healthcare infrastructure not yet fully realised. Of particular significance
given their emphasis on rural and urban regions having a population of less than 50000.
NABARD requested to create a concept note of how a greater role can be played by A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 21
NABARD in healthcare infrastructure financing opening up the path for visibility of
such financing to the private sector.
• Compliances (Setting up and Operating a Healthcare Facility (Hospital et al.)): Issue of
ineffectively operating State Single Window System (SSWS) highlighted in addition to
overall delay in approvals, cost of compliances. cumbersomeness of the process (even
renewals). Begin with classification of compliances that are generic/sector agnostic
and sector specific, identify central and state compliances (highlighting as they differ
from state to state). And within those identify compliances that are posing an issue in
enabling ‘Ease of Doing (Healthcare) Business’, delve into ‘who and how of resolving
the same’.
• PMJAY: Reimbursement - Universalisation of the green channel mechanism
implemented in UP and few other states that allows immediate release of payment of
%50 of the claim (if not flagged as suspicious or fraud within 24 hours). Accreditation
for PMJAY not in tandem with the requirements of accreditation laid down under the
Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010. NHA, MoHFW, States
to look into the reasons for dissonance and into harmonising the two.
• Availability of Doctors: Steps have been taken in the last 9 years taking up the number
of undergraduate seats from 52,000 to 1,08,000, PG seats from 32,000 to almost
70,000. But the matter of attrition (doctors, nurses) poses an issue that needs further
detailed examination and work. Private Sector urged to maximise PG training in their
facilities – approximately 7 lac beds but only 8000 made available for PG training.
• Data: Private Sector (industry association) requested to collate the data on volume and
type of presently existing private healthcare infrastructure (inter alia, for the purpose of
tracking gaps and progress). A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 22
Development of net-zero roadmaps at
state-level
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
India has made ambitious climate change commitments and is geared toward achieving net
zero by 2070. It has recently submitted its updated Nationally Determined Contributions
(NDC) goals to UNFCCC, which include: a) reducing the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45
percent from 2005 to 2030; (b) achieving 50 percent of electric power installed capacity from
non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030; and (c) creating an additional cumulative
carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tons of CO2 equivalent by increasing forest and tree cover
by 2030. Various initiatives are being taken at the national level to achieve these global
commitments. Also, few state governments are leading from the front in the preparation of
roadmaps for energy transition at the state level. It is imperative that for a country to achieve
net zero, action from states is pivotal.
In this context, NITI Aayog, in collaboration with the Govt. of Gujarat and CII, has organised
the “Workshop on Development of Net Zero Roadmap for the States” with the objective of
providing state officials and stakeholders with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed
to develop comprehensive and effective roadmaps for achieving net-zero emissions in their
respective states. The aim was that by the end of the workshop, participants would have a
clear understanding of the components of a net-zero roadmap and be equipped to initiate
the process in their states.
Shri Kanubhai Desai, Minister for Energy and Petrochemicals and Finance, Govt. of Gujarat,
a keynote speaker at the conference, emphasised the collective responsibility of state and
union governments to push forth a collective vision for clean and green energy. Smt. Mamta
Verma, Principal Secretary, Department of Energy and Petrochemicals, Govt of Gujarat,
highlighted the need for building greater awareness among state government officials on
various technology options that are available for greening the economy. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 23
Dr V K Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, emphasised the importance of state governments’
energy planning, especially in keeping power tariffs within the affordable range. Dr Saraswat
also emphasised optimally utilizing the existing thermal fleet and other technological options,
such as Small Modular Nuclear reactors and Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS)
while reducing emissions. Sh. Rajnath Ram, Advisor, NITI Aayog, highlighted that NITI Aayog
will support states in the preparation of energy transition roadmaps at the state level. The
workshop is just the start of deeper and strengthened engagement with state governments.
Darshan Shah, Chairman of CII Gujarat State Council, outlined that CII has developed sectoral
roadmaps in electricity and transport systems besides undertaking awareness and sensitivity
training across the country. He emphasised that CII Centers of Excellence (CoEs) can play a
crucial role as a hub for research and collaborative work. Venugopal Mothkoor, Sr Specialist,
NITI Aayog, made a brief presentation on the key considerations while preparing net zero
roadmaps and sector-level options available for decarbonization. He also made a brief
presentation on India Energy Security Scenarios (IESS) 2047, a tool developed by NITI Aayog.
Arun Mahesh Babu, MD, GPCL, highlighted that Gujarat aspires to produce 1 MMT of Green
Hydrogen by 2030 and that Gujarat intends to create a center of excellence dedicated to
net zero economy. Bibhu Bhuyan, MD, APGCL, highlighted the key barriers for RE growth in
Assam, which include: i) Low untapped potential of Hydro-power, ii) Lower solar irradiance,
and iii) Lower wind speed of 3 m/sec compared to 10-12 m/sec in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. G
P Nagaraj, GM, KREDL, highlighted how a strong ecosystem in Karnataka has been developed
to nurture and expand renewable energy in the state. The various initiatives taken include
coherent policies, an Incubation center for startups, Professional internships, and a Skill
development center.
The workshop had 50 participants from State Government, Industry, and Think tanks. The
workshop saw participation from 7 State Governments who have actively participated in the
various sessions and deliberated on various challenges in preparation for net zero roadmaps
at the state level. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 24
Outcomes
• Participation of over 50 officials from State Government Officials of Gujarat, Puducherry,
J&K, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, & Assam, where states presented on
Net Zero development in their respective states and could learn from the best practices
of each other.
• Improved awareness of the preparation of net zero roadmaps. Some states, like Gujarat,
Himachal, and J&K, have approached NITI Aayog to take forward the development
of net-zero and clean energy transition pathways for their states. NITI Aayog has, in
turn, assured states that support will be provided for energy transition and net zero
roadmaps. NITI Aayog will also come up with national-level net zero roadmaps; similar
roadmaps for states can also be developed.
• Preparation and implementation of energy transition plans or net zero roadmaps
requires capacity at the state level and NITI Aayog will support interested states in
developing the required capacities. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 25
Harnessing the Potential of Fisheries in
Marine states
Kochi, Kerala
India has a vast coastline of approximately 7,517 km, offering immense potential for marine
fisheries. The sector plays a crucial role in food security, employment generation, and foreign
exchange earnings. The sector plays a crucial role in the national economy, contributing to
foreign exchange earnings through seafood exports, which reached over $8 billion in 2022-
23. Despite its vast potential, marine fisheries face challenges such as overexploitation of
nearshore resources, habitat degradation, climate change impacts, and the need for better
post-harvest infrastructure. To harness the full potential of marine fisheries, there is a need
to promote deep-sea fishing, mariculture, sustainable fishing practices, and value addition
in the seafood industry. Encouraging technology adoption, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven
monitoring systems, and robust market linkages will further enhance the sector’s growth.
Recognizing these opportunities and challenges, there is a need for strategic interventions
to develop the marine fisheries sector sustainably. Strengthening policies, fostering public-
private partnerships, enhancing cold chain logistics, and improving access to institutional
credit are essential to maximizing marine fisheries’ contribution to India’s blue economy.
With targeted efforts, the sector can drive employment, boost exports, and support coastal
communities while ensuring long-term ecological balance. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 26
With this context, a national workshop entitled “Harnessing the Potential of Fisheries in the
Marine States” was organised by the NITI Aayog on January 5, 2024, at ICAR-CMFRI (the Central
Marine Fisheries Research Institute), Kochi, Kerala, in collaboration with the Government of
Kerala, to understand the issues and challenges of the sectors from the stakeholders and
insights from the experts to come up with the appropriate policies for the development of the
sector.
The one-day workshop had facilitated focused discussions among over 200 key stakeholders
from central and state governments, scientists, industry representatives and practitioners
on critical aspects of realizing India’s vast marine fisheries promise across the domains of
sustainability, market linkages and addressing ground challenges.
Key discussion themes included assessing sustainability gaps in harvesting practices,
strengthening market linkages, boosting exports competitiveness, tackling infrastructure &
technology gaps in cold chains and processing, enabling responsible deep-sea fishing through
policy reforms and collaborations even as emphasizing the safety & welfare of fish workers.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders including state fisheries departments,
research organizations, industry experts, and regulators to discuss challenges and
opportunities.
In his opening remarks, NITI Aayog’s Vice Chairman explained the organization’s role and
emphasised the need to collaborate with marine states to develop the sector. Senior Adviser
Dr. Neelam Patel set the context by underscoring the massive untapped potential in fisheries.
Dr. J.K Jena from ICAR-CMFRI Kochi highlighted the institute’s contributions towards holistic
fisheries growth while Prof. Ramesh Chand applauded the strides made by Andhra Pradesh.
Shri Rejimon, Joint Secretary NITI Aayog provided an overview of the State Support Mission,
an initiative by NITI Aayog and mentioned that 19 states have sought support under.
The first technical session reviewed the status, challenges and best practices for harnessing
marine fisheries potential across states. Participating states included Kerala, Odisha, Goa,
Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Key discussion points included gaps in policy, sustainability issues
and initiatives by states to boost growth. The Kerala State highlighted Kerala’s successful
implementation of minimum legal-size limits and a comprehensive 5-point program for
fisheries management and urged the neighbouring states to consider adopting similar
measures. While the representative from the state of Odisha explained the initiatives taken
by the department, like cage culture, seaweed farming, and artificial reefs. Emphasis was
given on providing incentives to fishers during ban periods. The Goa state presented Goa’s
noteworthy achievement as the first state to implement a marine fisheries policy in 2020
which focused on sustainability and stated that the state is implementing minimum legal sizes
for 20 species. Karnataka presented the status of marine fisheries in the state, explained the
various subsidies extended by the Department of Fisheries (DoF) to the fishermen especially
during the ban period and the new initiatives by the DoF for harnessing the potential of marine
fisheries of the state. The status of marine fisheries management was presented by the state
of Tamil Nadu and it was informed that the state is planning to stop further registration of new
vessels. It was also mentioned that the need for incentivizing and promoting the fishermen
who bring high quality landings to cater the need for buyers.
Experts from ICAR-CMFRI, NFDB, MSC and industry bodies led the next session on certification,
sustainability, stock assessment and monitoring in the marine sector. They provided insights
into strengthening policy, enhancing sustainability, estimating landings and assessing fish
stock more accurately.
The workshop then focused on priority areas like improving market access, boosting exports
and enabling higher value addition. Experts from MPEDA, CIFT, the seafood industry highlighted A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 27
issues in production, processing, cold chains and waste utilization. They also brainstormed
solutions to tackle challenges in marine fishing.
The final session dwelled on critical problems of deep-sea fishing, safety of fishers, innovations
in processing and cold chains. Stakeholders from BOBP-IGO and seafood organizations put
forth views on addressing these gaps through policy reforms, technological interventions and
private sector participation.
In summary, the workshop aligned key stakeholders to synergise efforts to harness India’s
promising marine fisheries potential across states through sustainable and responsible
strategies. It helped assess current status, flag priority issues and emerge with recommendations.
The suggestions will feed into the Strategy paper the Agriculture Vertical is currently drafting.
The high level of participation, balanced representation and focused agenda helped align
stakeholders, draw insights from ongoing work, identify priority issues, assess policy and
regulatory hurdles and deliberate emerging technology-led solutions - all crucial to harness
the high yet underutilised potential of India’s marine fisheries across states in a responsible
way. The suggestions emerging from this workshop will feed into recommendations from NITI
Aayog to inform India’s policy-making across this vital sector.
The major stakeholders and participants in the workshop represented government agencies,
research institutes, state administrations and private sector entities:
• Research Organizations - 69 research staff from leading institutes including ICAR-
CMFRI along with state fisheries research institutes
• State Government Representation - 90 officials from state fisheries departments,
predominantly from Kerala A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 28
• Central Government Representation - 13 representatives from various ministries and
departments of the Government of India
• Private Sector - 42 entrepreneurs, industry captains and subject matter experts
from private companies across fishing, seafood exports, cold chain and equipment
manufacturing
The wide participation covering central and state governments, research bodies and private
sector attests to the workshop’s inclusive nature in aligning key stakeholders from across the
fisheries value chain to harness the country’s marine potential. In summary, the workshop
successfully aligned key stakeholders to synergise efforts in harnessing India’s promising
marine fisheries’ potential for sustainability. It comprehensively assessed the current status,
identified priority issues, and generated recommendations.
Outcomes
Some of the expected outcomes include:
•Sustainable Fisheries Management: Standardised Minimum Legal Size (MLS) regulations,
enhanced monitoring, and AI-driven decision-making will ensure sustainable fishing
practices and better resource management.
•Economic and Livelihood Growth: Incentivising sustainable fishing, expanding
mariculture policies, and utilizing value-added seafood products will promote economic
growth and livelihood diversification.
•Deep-Sea and Resource Exploration: Strengthening regulations beyond 12 nautical
miles, researching meso-pelagic resources, and developing alternative fish feed sources
will expand sustainable fisheries opportunities.
•Market and Trade Development: Implementing national eco-labeling guidelines,
improving seafood traceability, and addressing trade barriers with innovative solutions
will enhance global market competitiveness.
•Institutional Collaboration and Policy Support: Strengthening partnerships among
government, industry, and research institutions will ensure coherent policies and
effective implementation for a thriving fisheries sector.
The overarching aim is to facilitate progressive discussions on sectoral issues that require
addressing policy constraints, bridging capacity gaps and enhancing participation. The output
will be a roadmap with strategies, reforms, and action points to harness the vast fisheries
potential across diverse regions. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 29
Leveraging State Data Ecosystems
for State and District-Level Policy and
Planning
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
NITI Aayog in partnership with the Government of Uttar Pradesh and with the support of
the World Bank convened a Data Forum under the State Support Mission with the focus
on “Leveraging State Date Ecosystem for State and District Level Policy and Planning”. The
Forum served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, innovation and
opportunities in establishing vibrant state data ecosystems in support of the India@2047
vision.
Objectives
The workshop aimed to support the States in developing robust data systems for monitoring
and evaluation (M&E) of program outputs and outcomes, for planning at the state and district
levels and developing State Data and Analytics Platform. The workshop focused on:
•getting a better understanding of the current situation in the states with regards to
institutional arrangements, policies and procedures, and technical and organizational
capabilities for data, and
•support states in developing their state data ecosystem, including state statistical
systems, to enable the use of data and statistics for evidence-based policymaking and
the monitoring and evaluation of state policies and programs
The inaugural session introduced participants to the broad landscape of using data for
improving policy-making and governance at the state and district levels. In his keynote
address, Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, emphasised the importance of data
in policy making, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Highlighted initiatives like the
National Data Analytics Platform (NDAP) and the Aspirational Districts Program and stressed A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 30
the importance of district-level planning and a bottom-up approach to data collection. Chief
Secretary, Uttar Pradesh, in his Inaugural address, discussed Uttar Pradesh’s mission to
become a $1 trillion economy by 2027-28, highlighted the importance of reliable, granular data
for district-specific policies and mentioned the state’s efforts in estimating District Domestic
Product (DDP) and the use of digital systems for targeted interventions.
The inaugural session was followed by four technical sessions, each addressing different
aspects of data-driven governance. These sessions featured several presentations which
showcased India’s progress on digitization and data-driven governance, including many
high-impact use cases. The Forum highlighted the vast potential for accelerating social and
economic development by adopting data-based methods.
Session 1: Getting the Enabling Environment Right
The first session on Getting the Enabling Environment Right featured presentations by
distinguished speakers who spoke about the technological infrastructure, regulatory
frameworks, data governance architecture, and skills needed for data initiatives that can add
value to governance, service delivery, and planning.
Session 2: Transforming Data into Knowledge – Achieving the India@2047
Vision
The second session focused on how data can bolster the India@2047 vision. Presenters gave
examples of how administrative data, integrated with surveys and censuses, can enhance local
planning at the district level. A standout example is the Prime Minister’s Gati Shakti National
Master Plan, which was initiated in 2021. Many specific use cases were given, from disaster A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 31
risk management to the building of schools in underserved areas, and the identification
of locations for new charging stations for electric vehicles. Presenters also recognised the
ongoing and persistent challenge of obtaining high quality statistical information below the
state level.
Session 3: Transforming Data into Knowledge – Proactive and Preemptive
Governance
The third session focused on using data systems for Proactive and Preemptive Governance.
Presenters gave examples of how data can be used to improve service delivery to citizens and
businesses. One notable example of this is the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, which
seamlessly links data systems such as Aadhar, the Local Government Directory (LGD), and
social registries.
Session 4: Experiments on Data Dissemination & Promoting Analytics
The concluding session emphasised the significance of making high-quality data and
information accessible in machine-readable and user-friendly formats wherever and whenever
needed. The session explored various methods for data dissemination and analytics, drawing
on experiences from several states. These included “Chief Minister Dashboards”, Open-
data platforms like data.gov.in and the National Data Analytics Platform (NDAP) along with
initiatives targeting aspirational blocks and districts.
Around 100 representatives from central ministries, state governments, industries, academic
institutions, and global organizations participated in the Forum. Major participants included,
Eminent dignitaries - Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, Chief Secretary, Government of Uttar Pradesh,
senior officers of NITI Aayog and State Government graced the workshop. Participants from
the other State Governments viz. Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Arunachal
Pradesh, Bihar, Goa, Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Mizoram,
Tripura, Telangana, Rajasthan, etc. graced the event. The workshop brought together senior
officials from the Government of India, State Governments, the United Nations, and the World
Bank, as well as prominent academics and researchers.
Outcomes
Some of the key initiatives emerged from the Forum which state governments can adopt to
leverage data for state and district-level planning and policy making are as follows:
• State Open Data Policy: This policy advocates for interoperability, highlighting its
crucial role in optimizing data collection and minimizing redundancy and provides clear
guidelines for how to realise it. Open Data Portal that contains high-value datasets at
the most granular level on various sectors and departments—for example, transport,
vehicular, online sales, and weather data--can be created. By adopting this policy, states
can ensure that data collected from various sources can be integrated and used more
efficiently, reducing duplication of efforts and enhancing the quality of data available
for decision-making.
• State Data Governance: A state data governance policy can enhance the quality
and use of nonpersonal data so that governments and researchers can access high-
quality data while ensuring privacy and trust. This would lead to better-quality data
and improved operational efficiency, collaboration and communication, policy and
decision-making, service delivery, transparency and accountability, as well as reduced
costs, greater efficiency, and citizen engagement. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 32
• NITI for States: NITI Aayog has been collaborating with several states to enhance
governance and improve citizen welfare. This initiative involves providing tailored
support and expertise to state governments, helping them design and implement
policies that address local challenges effectively. The focus is on building capacity
within state governments to use data-driven insights for better governance and service
delivery.
• State Data Portal Based on NDAP: The National Data Analytics Platform (NDAP) is
a comprehensive repository of over 2000 government data sources, encompassing
information from all states. States can leverage this platform to access data specific
to their needs and develop their own State NDAP using the same architecture and
technical infrastructure. This enables states to create customised data portals that
provide relevant insights and analytics for state-level planning and policy formulation.
• Identification of Use Cases: State planning departments must engage continuously
with their line ministries to identify critical developmental and governance issues
specific to their state. This involves conducting regular consultations and workshops to
understand the pressing needs and challenges faced by different sectors. By identifying
these use cases, states can prioritise their data initiatives and develop targeted solutions
that address the most significant policy and governance issues.
• Collaboration with Academia or Multilateral Bodies: Partnering with organizations
specializing in data collection and analysis can help guide the process, ensure data
quality, and develop useful analytical applications for planning and policy making. This
collaboration can provide states with the expertise and resources needed to enhance
their data capabilities.
Additionally, the Data Forum, organised annually by NITI Aayog under its State Support
Mission initiative, will facilitate ongoing engagement. State nodal officers will be identified
to enable year-long collaboration leading up to the next forum, which will be designed more
collaboratively. Based on interest, regional forums may also be organised as feeder forums for
the national forum. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 33
Rejuvenation of Water Bodies
New Delhi
Mission Amrit Sarovar was launched by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on 24 April 2022 with
an objective to construct/ rejuvenate at least 75 Amrit Sarovars (Ponds) in every district of
the country. Taking the mission forward, NITI Aayog collaborated with the A.T.E. Chandra
Foundation (ATECF) to rejuvenate water bodies in 11 aspirational districts across Jharkhand,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Over the past two years, 585
water bodies were rejuvenated through this partnership.
A National Workshop titled ‘Rejuvenation of Water bodies’ was organised by NITI Aayog
at New Delhi, with an objective to provide a platform for sharing experiences and lessons
learned from the Amrit Sarovar Mission and RWB initiatives. It aimed to discuss strategies
for expanding these efforts into water-stressed blocks, particularly focusing on the 92 most
water-stressed blocks among the 500 Aspirational Blocks identified by NITI Aayog.
The workshop was divided into 4 sessions. A diverse set of participants attended the workshop
viz, farmers, Block Development Officers from State Governments, District Magistrates, Senior
State and Centre Govt. Officers from different Departments, Developmental Partners (CEEW,
IWMI, World Bank), and Officers/ officials of NITI Aayog and A.T.E. Chandra Foundation
(ATECF).
The workshop witnessed participation from Panchayat Raj & Rural Development Dept., Andhra
Pradesh, Assam, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and the Union Territory of Jammu and
Kashmir. The ATE Chandra Foundation also participated in the workshop. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 34
Outcomes
• Promote ecological balance and conserve traditional waterbodies to address water
scarcity and to mitigate the impacts of climate change through Rejuvenation of
Waterbodies (RWB)
• The State Governments to carry out extensive IEC to discourage water intensive crops
in summers to reduce stress on ground and surface water resources.
• NITI Aayog to promote partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders and
government to support rejuvenating water bodies (RWB) initiatives.
• Convergence with forest and irrigation departments to support the water bodies
rejuvenation mission to identify potential sites of rejuvenation in water stressed/
drought prone districts.
• The State Governments to intensify the promotion of use of silt extracted during the
rejuvenation of water bodies to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers to improve
crop yield, vegetation cover, etc.
• Local mechanisms to be developed for revenue generation through pisciculture
involving indigenous fishes and tourism activities around water bodies.
• Develop SOP for implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the RWB activities with
active engagement of Gram Panchayats and SHGs.
• The state government conducts periodic anti-encroachment, freeing up feeder
channels, water bodies to increase storage.
• Capacity building and knowledge sharing exercise to address the challenges faced in
RWB at grassroot levels needs to be taken up for stakeholders.
• In order to convert RWB initiative as Jan Bhagidari movement, state to conduct various
awareness campaigns, IEC drives, workshops, etc. as part of Jal Shakti Abhiyan to
inculcate sustainable water management practices among communities
• Establish robust monitoring, involving local stakeholders, to ensure the long-term
sustainability of the RWB using SHGs/ Village Water and Sanitation Committees.
• State Governments keen on rejuvenating water bodies begin their excavation work
between the months of January and May to prevent rainwater runoff during the
monsoon season.
• The area under water bodies to be effectively mapped with GIS and formalised on
revenue records to ensure no encroachment of the channels take place.
• The States to partner with premier research institutes to evaluate the pre and post
impact of rejuvenation efforts on indicators such as:
»Agricultural Productivity
»Groundwater Recharge
»Consumption of fertilizers
»Area under Vegetation Cover
»Water Quality & Soil Health Aquaculture
• The states should encourage the use of Nature Based solutions like constructed
wetlands and floating ponds to treat domestic wastewater before it is discharged into
water bodies.
• The state should focus on conducting periodic desilting programs at Village/Gram
Panchayat/Block to sustain water capacity. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 35
National Workshop on the Learnings
of Project SATH-Education – SATH
Interventions for school education
transformation
New Delhi
NITI Aayog had launched Project-Sustainable Action for Transforming Human capital (SATH)-
Education, in the year 2017 with 03 States (Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha) to initiate
systemic transformation in School Education. The key objective of the Project SATH-Education
was to build three future ‘Role Model’ States for systemic transformation in their respective
School Education sectors with optimum contextualization. Presently the Project is under
implementation in Arunachal Pradesh.
The National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 aims to address the growing educational
development imperatives of our country and Project SATH-Education, in synchronization
with NEP-2020, has ensured that our students not only attend schools but also learn at an
incremental pace. The SATH model can help States/UTs to achieve the NEP-2020 targets in
a time-bound manner.
In this regard, NITI Aayog organised a National Workshop on the “Learnings of Project SATH -
Education in Synchronization with National Education Policy-2020: A Peer-learning Workshop”
under the chairmanship of Hon’ble Member (Education) Dr. V.K. Paul, on 19th October 2023
at New Delhi. The purpose of the National Workshop was to disseminate SATH Interventions, A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 36
SATH Learnings and SATH Best Practices which can be replicated in other States/UTs with
their own contextualization.
3 Panel Discussion involving SATH States, Knowledge partners, Education department of
State/UTs were carried out during the course of the workshop. Panel 1 was on Ensuring
optimal schooling structures with appropriate resourcing; Panel 2 was on Improving learning
outcomes and strengthening assessments; and Panel 3 was on Strengthening institutional
capacity and governance in state education departments
Stakeholder participation was ensured from the Ministry of Education and Education
Department of 31 States/UTs. Related autonomous bodies: NCERT, NIEPA, Multilateral
agencies: UNICEF, World bank, Development partners: MSDF, Young Lives, Piramal, BCG,
Room to Read, Bharti Foundation, Tata Trust also participated.
Outcomes
• Project SATH report on Learnings for Large-Scale Transformation in School Education
was launched in the Workshop.
• Best practises and learnings from the ground in the 3 SATH partner states Odisha,
Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh were shared A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 37
Harnessing Fisheries Potential in Inland
states
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
India’s inland fisheries, spanning rivers, canals, ponds, reservoirs, and other water bodies,
contribute over 75% of the country’s commercial fish production, supporting livelihoods,
exports, and rural nutrition. The sector has witnessed a shift from marine to inland fisheries,
growing from 36% in the mid-1980s to 75% in 2022-23, with culture-based fisheries driving
a sustainable blue economy. Despite this progress, its full potential remains untapped. The
2023 Census of Water Bodies identified 24.2 lakh water bodies nationwide, offering vast
opportunities for fish production, employment, and food security. Thus, focused development
of the inland fisheries sector through a value-chain-based approach can transform the
livelihoods of millions of fishers and farmers, enhance the water and land productivity of rural
India, boost exports, and enable environmentally harmonious progress.
In this context, a two-day national workshop titled “Harnessing the Potential of Fisheries in
Inland States” was organised by NITI Aayog on 14th and 15th February, 2024 in collaboration
with the Department of Fisheries, Government of Andhra Pradesh, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra
Pradesh. The workshop facilitated discussions on strategies for unlocking the potential of
inland fisheries across major inland states, providing key insights and paving the way for
substantial development in the sector. The primary objective of the workshop was to bring
together diverse stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges, showcase innovative
initiatives, deliberate on collaborative solutions, and outline an actionable roadmap for
transforming India’s inland fisheries sector.
The workshop was held to bring together all the stakeholders in inland fisheries in the country
to discuss the issues and challenges in inland fisheries and fostering symbiotic partnerships
to take the sector forward. To deliberate the context, the workshop had three technical
sessions: Harnessing the Inland Fisheries Potential-Perspectives from Inland Fisheries States;
Sustainability in Inland Fisheries: FPOs/Cooperatives Led Development Models; and Issues
and Challenges in Inland Fisheries Industry in India. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 38
The workshop was inaugurated by Shri. Parshottam Rupala, Hon’ble Minister of Fisheries,
Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Govt. of India in the presence of Prof. Ramesh Chand,
Hon’ble Member-NITI Aayog; Shri. G V L Narasimha Rao, Hon’ble MP Rajya Sabha; Shri. Vaddi
Raghuram, Co Vice-Chairman, AP State Aqua Development Authority; Dr. Neelam Patel, Senior
Advisor, NITI Aayog; Dr. J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries), ICAR; Dr. Babita Singh,
Senior Consultant, NITI Aayog and Shri. K Kanna Babu, Commissioner of Fisheries, Govt. of
Andhra Pradesh
Shri Parshottam Rupala in his inaugural address emphasised on promoting the aspirational
model of development, wherein the least developed areas need to be pushed forward into
a trajectory of growth. The Minister was emphatic on promoting indigenous fish species
through Nuclear Breeding Centres (NBCs) and Broodstock Multiplication Centres (BMCs)
and highlighted the example of black tiger shrimp facility at Andaman Islands developed by
MPEDA
Dr. J. K. Jena, Deputy Director General (Fisheries), ICAR in his talk gave an overview of the
inland fisheries sector of the country and highlighted the tremendous growth in the sector
and its transformation from small-scale to industrial and entrepreneurial levels. He listed the
6 drivers of this growth as – Technologies, Dissemination, Adoption, Investment, Policy and
Partnership.
Prof. Ramesh Chand, the session moderator, highlighted that increased R&D in fish preparation
methods and value-added products is needed to attract new and non-traditional consumers
of fish. It is important to understand consumer preferences in other countries and re-position
our fish exports accordingly. Explore the possibility of including the fisheries sector under the
Kusum scheme for solar power and explore the possibility of reducing GST on frozen fish.
To deliberate the context, the workshop had three technical sessions: Harnessing the Inland
Fisheries Potential-Perspectives from Inland Fisheries States; Sustainability in Inland Fisheries:
FPOs/Cooperatives Led Development Models; and Issues and Challenges in Inland Fisheries
Industry in India. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 39
The concluding remarks of the workshop was given by Dr. Rajeev Ranjan, former Secretary
Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAH&D) and former Chief
Secretary, Govt. of Tamil Nadu. He congratulated the organisers on the successful conduct of
the workshop and was appreciative of the inputs from various states which enabled a learning
atmosphere during the workshop. He reiterated all the major suggestions provided by various
participants over the course of the workshop.
Around 100 participants that include delegates from NITI Aayog, ICAR, Department of
Fisheries- Govt. of India, multi-stakeholders including state fisheries representatives,
fisherfolks, industrialists and researchers took part in the workshop. The State representation
from Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Haryana, Bihar, Telangana, Jharkhand,
Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh attended the workshop
Outcomes
• Inland Fisheries Development and Indigenous Species Promotion: Promoting the
aspirational model of inland fisheries development will drive growth, while supporting
indigenous fish species through National Biodiversity Committees (NBCs) and
Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) will ensure biodiversity conservation
and sustainability.
• Infrastructure and Market Enhancement: Establishing modern, mall-like fish markets
will boost domestic consumption and reduce stigma. Increased R&D in fish preparation
and value-added products will attract new consumers, while improved marketing
strategies and targeted export re-positioning will expand global market reach.
• Policy and Financial Support: Uniform policies under the Amrit Sarovar initiative,
enhanced unit costs under GoI schemes, and special schemes for mauns and
government ponds will support fisheries growth. Financial incentives such as GST
reduction on frozen fish, subsidies for solar power units, and soft credit processes will
improve sectoral profitability.
• Technology, Research, and Sustainability: Exploring solar power inclusion under the
Kusum scheme and implementing cage house provisions will enhance operational
efficiency. Establishing freshwater fish seed banks in every state will ensure steady
supply, while government-backed support for Black Soldier Fly (BSF) industries will
drive sustainable feed alternatives.
• Training and Institutional Strengthening: Capacity building through marketing training
for fish farmers and eliminating consultancy charges levied by ICAR institutes will
facilitate skill development. Categorizing states based on inland fisheries growth rates
and formulating targeted policies will ensure region-specific development, fostering a
balanced and progressive fisheries sector. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 40
Promoting Livelihoods through
International Mobility of Skilled Workers
New Delhi
State governments play a significant role in international labour mobility management and
welfare. Several States have been undertaking enabling measures to facilitate international
labour mobility. State Governments’ involvement in international migration governance and
support is critical, for both migrants, as well as for the local economy.
Against this background, a States Workshop on ‘Promoting Livelihoods through International
Mobility of Skilled Workers’ is being organised by NITI Aayog, which was an initiative under
the State Support Mission. The workshop engaged with different stakeholders including
Central Ministries, State Governments, International Organizations and Industry experts. The
workshop seeks to strengthen the proactive engagement of State governments, facilitate
better sensitization to migration issues, share good practices and perspectives, identify
challenges and gaps, thereby contributing to better formulation of international migrant-
responsive programmes and interventions. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 41
The workshop witnessed participation from various stakeholders, including four central
ministries, 32 States and Union Territories, international organizations, industry, and academic
experts.   M/o External Affairs, M/o Labour and Employment, M/o Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship, M/o Electronics and Information Technology, State/UTs Govts., International
Labour Organization (ILO) Delhi Office, International Organization for Migration (IOM),
International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), NASSCOM, Open Network
for Digital Commerce (ONDC), Alliance Air participated in the workshop.
Dr. Arvind Virmani, Member, NITI Aayog, in his special address laid emphasis on the paramount
importance of skill development from both national and global perspectives. He underscored
the intricate relationship between skills and employment, advocating for a balanced approach
to address skill shortages across varying skill levels. He also emphasised the necessity of
collaborative partnerships among government bodies, non-governmental organizations,
and private sector entities to navigate skill development challenges. By stressing on the
transformative potential of digital connectivity in accessing global opportunities; need for
policy reforms to facilitate seamless integration into the global workforce; he provided
details on actionable strategies aimed at fostering a resilient and adaptive skill development
ecosystem to meet the evolving demands of the global economy.
Ms. Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, delivered the opening
remarks, wherein she emphasised the critical role of the multi-generational workforce in
addressing the persistent demand-supply mismatch within the labour market. Underlining
the evolving dynamics of the workforce towards increased flexibility and connectivity, she
exemplified government initiatives such as the Production Link Incentive (PLI) programme
and strategic partnerships with countries such as Singapore to bolster job creation efforts.
She stressed the imperative of fostering collaboration between public and private sectors,
industry stakeholders, and labour associations, emphasizing the urgent need to map and align
skill sets with prevailing market demands, both domestically and internationally.
The programme schedule included 4 thematic sessions on:
Session 1: Strategies for Skill Development in Emerging & Future Skills
Ms. Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Skill Development and Technical Education Department,
Govt. of Odisha highlighted NUA Odisha: From Local to Global along with key initiatives such
as Sudakshya Scheme for improving enrolment of girls, setting up of World Skill Centre, and
the first-of-its-kind CM Skill Fellowship for decentralised skilling. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 42
Dr. Vinod Kumar, CEO of Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corporation has highlighted
the need to possess adaptable skills as per industry demands, stressed on collaborations of
APSSDC with industry bodies for offering employability skills to youth in his address. He also
outlined the initiatives such as GUVI (Grab Ur Vernacular Imprints) an IIT-M & IIM-A incubated
Ed-tech company, Skill-A-Thon competition on web designing, and academic skill programmes
for engineering students and stressed on a training model for employability training of nurses.
Mr. Vinod T.V, Chief Operating Officer, Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE), Govt.
of Kerala presented on Skilling Initiatives for Training Manpower for Overseas Roles and
highlighted the key initiatives such as bilateral agreements with countries like the UK and
Germany, alongside the establishment of a digital university to foster future-ready skills;
Demand driven training, on-the-job training (OJT,) and foreign language training etc.
Mr. Ram Ramlingam, CEO of Global Skills Park has highlighted the organization’s mission to
equip students with global skills. The emphasis was on a market-driven approach and drawing
parallels between innovation in technology and skill development. Industry partnerships were
highlighted, along with success stories of graduates turned entrepreneurs. Recommendations
for a more adaptive and sustainable skill development ecosystem were presented, focusing
on agility and personalised education pathways for students.
Session 2: Synergy between Skill and Education
Mr. Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary at MeitY highlighted that Future Skills Prime (FSP)
is a collaborative effort between NASSCOM and MeitY, to establish India as a leader in digital
talent. Sh. Raj Nehru, Vice Chancellor, Vishwakarma University highlighted the modalities for
approaching vocational education and training (VET) at Vishwakarma University.
Sh. Thampy Koshy, CEO, ONDC emphasised on the fundamental principles of Open Networks,
with a particular focus on the transactional dynamics within the ONDC ecosystem. Dr. Chintan
Vaishnav, Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission highlighted the critical role of innovation in
revolutionizing education across all stages, from primary to tertiary
Session 3: Promoting International Mobility Pathways through Industry
Engagements
Ms. Sonal Mishra, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
(MSDE) has highlighted the significant achievements in the domain, such as the signing of 11
government-to-government memorandums of understanding, the establishment of 30 Skill
India International Centres, and the successful training and international deployment of a
large number of candidates. These initiatives signified MSDE’s commitment to addressing
the skilled labour demands both within India and internationally. She also emphasised on the
interest from countries like Germany, Italy, France, and the UK in promoting the mobility of
Indian skilled workers, reflecting the global recognition of India’s skilled labour force.
Mr. Ishtiaque Ahmed, Sr. Adviser, Industry, NITI Aayog highlighted the strategic skills required
to navigate the changing landscape of modern manufacturing, aiming to provide a detailed
discussion on how India could leverage its demographic advantage to enhance its manufacturing
capabilities. He further emphasised on the imperative of equipping the workforce with the
necessary skills and knowledge to meet industry requirements. The importance of increasing
the employability and productivity of the labour force to achieve growth was highlighted,
noting the current employability rates and the geographical mismatch between the demand
for and supply of skilled labour. The benefits of labour formalization, improved pay, and skill A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 43
development to increase workforce employability, using the electronics manufacturing sector
in Vietnam were highlighted as an example. The focus was also brought to the need for policy
intervention to bridge the talent supply gap for high-precision manufacturing and design
skills was highlighted, suggesting mechanisms for attracting talent, providing fiscal support
for training, and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Mr. Amresh Choudhary, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), Alliance Air has highlighted Aviation
Sector: Skilling Needs and Future Prospects and advocated for a holistic approach to skilling
and education in aviation, aiming to bridge the gap between industry demand and skilled
manpower availability.
Ms. Jyothsna Minocha, NASSCOM emphasised on its collaboration with over 2000 academic
institutions, the onboarding of more than 150 corporates, and partnerships with over 90
training and content partners under progress of the Future Skills Prime initiative; and the
partnership between Future Skills Prime and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)
of NITI Aayog, designed to skill women entrepreneurs in Northeast India.
Session 4: Mapping International Demand and Promoting Partnerships for
International Mobility
Ms. Archana Nair, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the shift from
general Labour Mobility Agreements (LMA) to Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements
(MMPA) was highlighted as a significant development. She informed the audience about the
current status of Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreements (MMPA), mentioning that
India has seven such agreements in place.
Sh. Amrit Nirmal, Deputy Director General (Employment) at the Ministry of Labour &
Employment, has highlighted the significant features of the National Career Service (NCS)
job portal, emphasizing its capacity to facilitate both offline and online job fairs.
Dr. Surabhi Singh, the Liaison Officer for India at the International Centre for Migration Policy
Development (ICMPD) has highlighted comprehensive overview of global shortages for A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 44
workers and also highlighted the work being done on new destinations in Europe under the
India-EU CAMM (Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility) Project which is currently in its
second phase, especially on mapping of opportunities and skill referencing.
Mr. Amish Karki, Technical Officer, International Labour Organisation presented on Promoting
Partnerships and Collaborations on International Labour Migration, outlining the crucial
aspects such as the Global Compact on Migration Objective 18, the G20 Commitment of 2023,
and the Government of India’s Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY).
Mr. Sanjay Awasthi, Head of Office, International Organization for Migration has highlighted
key aspects, including an overview of the IOM, migration trends and corridors from India,
the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM), IOM’s programmatic
approach in India including the focus areas, priorities and specific initiatives.
Outcomes
The workshop’s objective was to enable stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, and
best practices and deliberate strategies to promote pathways for the international mobility of
skilled workers.
The workshop explored the potential of international mobility of skilled workers in enhancing
livelihoods and contributing to the state’s economic development. Through sessions with
Senior State Govt. officers from the labour and skill/technical education departments,
educationists, and experts from the industry/private sector, participants had the opportunity
to:
• Interact with fellow state government officers to gain insights into their experiences
and initiatives being undertaken on international mobility of skilled workers.
• Discuss policy frameworks and initiatives that can facilitate this initiative.
• Explore avenues for equipping skilled workers to access international job opportunities.
• Share best practices and regional experiences A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 45
Empowering E-Mobility in Indian Cities:
Developing 100 EV Ready Cities
New Delhi
With the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, NITI Aayog planned a series of workshops in line
with its initiatives like State Support Mission (SSM), Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP)
and Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP) to foster cooperative and competitive federalism.
In this series, the Workshop on “Empowering E-mobility in Indian Cities” was planned and
organised in consultation and collaboration with respective Central Ministries/Department,
concerned State/UT Government, by the E Mobility vertical of NITI Aayog at Vigyan Bhawan.
A series of presentations were made to State delegates on how NITI along with its resource
partners can support states on EV transition. A workshop manual containing a guidebook on
using NITI’s platforms like E Amrit, Shoonya, E-FAST etc. was prepared and distributed to the
State delegates.
The meeting saw participation from key stakeholders across central government bodies,
knowledge partners, and NITI Aayog representatives. Among the Central Government
Delegates, the Director General of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, the Additional Secretary
of MoHUA, and the Joint Secretary of MHI, Ease of Doing Business, National Highway for
Electric Vehicles (NHeV), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), National Research Development
Corporation (NRDC) were present, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing
e-mobility initiatives.
There was overwhelming participation from officials of 11 States/ UTs (Arunachal Pradesh,
Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh,
West Bengal) in the workshop. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 46
Knowledge Partners included organizations such as WRI India, GIZ, RMI, CALSTRAT, ICCT,
Climate Group, OMI Foundation, Grant Transform, Reliance BP Mobility Ltd., India Battery
Swapping Association (IBSA), and others. These partners contributed insights on various
aspects of EV policy, infrastructure, and investment opportunities. Experts from RITES Ltd.,
New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP), and
other institutions also participated, sharing technical expertise on EV standards, battery
swapping, and ease of doing business for EV-related projects.
Sh. Arvind Virmani, member NITI Aayog emphasised the role of EVs in the Green Economy.
Sh. Sudhendu J. Sinha, Advisor NITI Aayog explained the overall context of this workshop
and highlighted the role of States in India’ sustainable mobility transition. The Ministry
representatives focused on the support being provided through assistance on charging
infrastructure development and the adoption of EVs, especially transitioning the public
transport fleet to EV through PM E-bus Sewa.
Session 1: Central Government Perspectives
Shri Abhay Bakre, Director General of BEE, emphasised the willingness of a combined team
for development (CTU) to support states in their EV-related efforts. He highlighted that a
consumer-driven program could be more effective in accelerating EV adoption. Additionally,
he expressed anticipation for the upcoming FAME-III initiative, which is expected to further
bolster the EV ecosystem.
Shri SK Bagde, Additional Secretary, MoHUA, GoI, provided a brief on the PM E-Bus Sewa
scheme and underscored the critical role of high-quality power infrastructure in developing
charging stations for e-buses. He also mentioned that the department is forming a dedicated
team to assist cities in finalizing the route maps for buses and providing technical support for
operations. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 47
Session 2: State’s Perspective
From the states’ perspective, Arunachal Pradesh currently has no e-buses but is planning
awareness initiatives to promote EV adoption. Bihar has deployed 25 e-buses in Patna along
with 166 CNG buses and plans to procure 400 more buses under the PM E-Bus Sewa scheme.
The state is also considering inter-city e-bus services in cities like Patna, Gaya, and Bhagalpur.
NITI Aayog suggested that an E-Mobility Readiness Plan would be beneficial in identifying key
implementation aspects.
Delhi has seen a rise in EV adoption due to financial incentives, including interest subsidies.
The capital has 980 e-buses, with 400 more set to be added. A single-window system is in
place for setting up public EV charging stations, and Delhi currently hosts over 4,000 public
charging stations, 1,000 private charging stations, and 400+ battery-swapping stations.
Additionally, only e-auto permits are now being issued, restricting conventional fuel autos.
Haryana has deployed e-buses and is upgrading its infrastructure by either developing
dedicated e-bus depots or integrating charging facilities into existing depots based on
feasibility. Himachal Pradesh has identified 54 locations for PPP-based EV initiatives, with
tenders to be floated soon. Some public EV charging stations have been developed at petrol
pumps and are set for inauguration, while tenders for private charging stations will be floated
through RTDC.
Rajasthan has introduced an EV policy and is working on a Payment Security Management
(PSM) system, which is yet to be implemented. Telangana has registered 2,000 EVs since June
and is focusing on Advanced Chemistry Cells (ACC) development. The state was among the
first to establish EV charging infrastructure and has an advanced institutional setup for skill
development in the sector.
Tripura, a power-surplus state, does not have e-buses at present. Uttar Pradesh operates
e-buses in 11 cities under the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model, with NueGo buses being A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 48
deployed. In West Bengal, 49 public charging stations have been set up along highways and
other locations, with 81 more locations identified and 53 additional sites under planning for
PCS expansion.
While states’ delegates took note of ways in which NITI Aayog can help cities develop their
Comprehensive Electric Mobility Plans, they raised the following points during the workshop:
• Charge point operators in the states are finding low-capacity utilization of around 10%,
which is discouraging further proliferation of public charging points in the States.
• Hilly states demanded separate categories of per day kilometers running so as to avail
the OPEX based schemes like PM E-Bus Sewa. They explained that a minimum of 150
KM per day for such vehicles in the hilly states is more than what states can commit
based upon the existing running pattern.
Several challenges and issues were highlighted regarding EV adoption across states. In
terms of EV rolling stock, Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh reported difficulties in
procuring 9-meter inter-city e-buses suitable for hilly terrains that meet the required design
criteria. Additionally, Himachal Pradesh raised concerns about the operational challenges of
running e-buses on the OPEX model and suggested that NITI Aayog consider transitioning to
a CAPEX model for the state. Tripura pointed out that the high per-kilometer running cost of
e-buses remains a significant barrier.
For charging infrastructure, a major challenge is the low utilization of public charging stations,
making scalability difficult. Furthermore, West Bengal highlighted that for routes exceeding
700 km, using e-buses becomes challenging due to long charging times and the impracticality
of battery swapping. Shri Sudhendu Sinha, Advisor, NITI Aayog, suggested consulting IITs and
other premier research institutions to explore possible solutions.
Additionally, a key recommendation from state representatives was to transition school
buses to EVs, given their fixed routes with a maximum distance of approximately 30 km. Shri
Sudhendu Sinha noted that this initiative was first implemented in California, and its feasibility
in India could be explored further.
Session 3: Tools for States
The workshop also included participation of representatives from the advocacy/ private
sector organisations supporting/may provide support to the states/cities in their EV adoption
and operation journey. The focus was on developing a comprehensive E-mobility Plan and
developing improved understanding related to the tools like E-Amrit, Shoonya, E-fast for the
Indian cities.
Several organizations presented key insights and recommendations to support EV adoption
and infrastructure development. ICLEI South Asia emphasised the importance of readiness
assessments to evaluate the existing EV ecosystem, identify gaps, and address challenges.
They advocated for a long-term approach through the development of City-Level E-Mobility
Action Plans, which would serve as guidance documents for identifying priority actions and
their implementation. They also highlighted the crucial role of cities in promoting EV adoption.
WRI India provided an overview of the e-FAST portal and conducted an analysis of state
EV policies, including different types of incentives and potential future directions. IBSA
focused on battery-swapping infrastructure, while Reliance BP Mobility expressed readiness
to collaborate with states on charging infrastructure initiatives.
ICCT shared five key policy recommendations for strengthening the EV sector. BIS mapped A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 49
Indian Standards (IS) with various government schemes and highlighted existing standards
for EVs and their components, including upcoming TED standards for batteries. They also
discussed standards related to AC charging, DC charging, and combined slow and fast
charging solutions.
RMI introduced the Shoonya initiative and offered technical assistance to states and cities.
OMI presented insights on the EV dashboard, while Climate Trends emphasised the need for
an offline collaborative forum for EV-related discussions.
CALSTART advocated for the creation of investable projects and noted that states are
considering forming a group or body similar to NITI Aayog at the state level to drive EV
initiatives. They also underscored the economic opportunities associated with EV adoption.
Outcome
To carry forward the agenda of the workshop an EV Helpdesk, focused at strengthening the
implementation of State EV Policies, is proposed. The mandate, structure and protocol shall
be decided in consultation with the State Support Mission. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 50
Regional Workshop - Enabling Women-led
development– reaching the last mile
Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
The Second edition of WEP-NITI Aayog State Workshop Series on Enabling Women-led
Development through Entrepreneurship was held in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh on 24th
November 2023 in collaboration with the State Government. The workshop focused on the
north-eastern region and was attended by representatives from all 8 north-eastern states.
Eminent dignitaries, including Shri Pema Khandu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal
Pradesh, Chief Secretary, Government of Arunachal Pradesh and senior officers of NITI Aayog
graced the workshop. Official representatives from 8 North Eastern states, representatives
from ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India), Startup India, NASSCOM, FICCI FLO,
UNCRC, UNDP, UN Women also participated in the workshop. Representatives from Private
sector players, academia and non-profit organisations like MakeMyTrip, BITS Pilani, SELCO
foundation. The workshop drew over 1000 local women entrepreneurs, Self-Help Groups
(SHGs), clusters, collectives, and tribal groups.
The workshop focused on the north-eastern region and was attended by representatives
from all 8 north-eastern states i.e Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram,
Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. The role of states in fostering women entrepreneurship is
crucial for ensuring last-mile connectivity and building a sustainable support ecosystem.
The workshop primarily focused on deliberating a hub-and-spoke model aimed at extending
women-led development to grassroots levels, particularly covering the last mile in North- A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 51
Eastern States. By adopting this approach, WEP can enhance access to resources, mentorship,
and opportunities for women-led enterprises, ensuring a deeper regional impact.
The discussions reinforced the importance of state-level implementation and encouraged
key stakeholders to actively participate in the initiative. As states take proactive steps, the
impact of such engagements is expected to lead to greater visibility, stronger networks, and
improved access to financial and market linkages for women entrepreneurs. The collaboration
between states and WEP will further amplify the mission of empowering women and fostering
an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Outcomes
The primary focus of the workshop was deliberating on a hub-and-spoke model aimed at
extending women-led development to grassroots levels, covering the last mile in North-Eastern
States. A series of new collaborations were announced to support women entrepreneurs
which includes the following:
• Launch of Award to Reward (ATR) Initiative
Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh and Chief Secretary launched impactful
initiatives for women entrepreneurs under the WEP’s ATR program.
i. The first launch was the “CatalyseTech EntreprenueHer Innovation Challenge”, an Atal
Innovation Centre-SELCO Foundation partnership focused on supporting clean energy
entrepreneurship. The ATR to empower women entrepreneurs in critical sectors such
as agriculture, healthcare, and micro-businesses and aims to create awareness and
solutions for sustainability and climate resilience among women entrepreneurs.
ii. The second launch was the “Maitri program” in partnership with MakeMyTrip for
training and capacity building of women homestay owners in the north-eastern region
to foster the growth of women entrepreneurs. The ATR program provides homestay
owners with training on using online marketplaces, including MakeMyTrip, and markets
their businesses online to create a strong digital presence.
iii. The “Womenpreneur” program by BITS Pilani and Aditya Birla Foundation was launched
to recognise women enterprises transforming India through tech-led approaches.
This program provides an opportunity for women entrepreneurs to participate in an
18-month-long incubation program that provides one-on-one mentoring and market
support for scaling up and an opportunity to win seed Funding of up to Rs. 10 Lacs. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 52
• Building an Enabling Environment:
i. Launch of the “NASSCOM Future Skills Program”, to provide skilling to women
entrepreneurs from three backgrounds: Non-tech, Semi-tech, and Tech through short
learning modules to help entrepreneurs test concepts through structured experiments,
refine business strategy, raise capital to grow their business and create value for their
customers.
ii. The “FLO MSME Assist Centre” by the FICCI FLO was launched as a helpdesk for
North-Eastern women entrepreneurs to provide them with a platform for mentorship
and networking opportunities, fostering partnerships, accessing new markets, and
providing skill development and capacity building tailored to the needs of women
entrepreneurs, while also creating international business opportunities for them.
• Technological Enhancements to WEP:
In collaboration with partners Mastercard and Square Panda, new features were announced
for WEP. These include content in 12 languages, a chatbot, and various other tools, aiming
to enhance accessibility and user experience.
• Government Commitment:
The Hon’ble Chief Minister announced the establishment of a Women Entrepreneurship
Cell with initial funding of INR 5 crore to support women entrepreneurs in the state of
Arunachal Pradesh.
The sessions in the workshop offered valuable insights to women entrepreneurs, and a
tech experience center by SELCO Foundation showcased sustainable tech entrepreneurs
from the north-eastern region. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 53
Penetrating Global Value Chains: India’s
Potential and Prospects
New Delhi
NITI Aayog organised the workshop titled ‘Penetrating Global Value Chains: India’s Potential
and Prospects’ on December 5, 2023, in New Delhi. The event brought together senior
government officials from 31 States and Union Territories, along with representatives from
the Government of India. Key addresses were delivered by the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog;
Hon’ble Member Dr. VK Saraswat, NITI Aayog; Hon’ble Member Dr. Arvind Virmani, NITI Aayog;
CEO of NITI Aayog; and Mr. Virat Bhatia, Chairman of the CII Taskforce on GVCs.
The workshop saw participation from various Ministries and Departments, including MEITY,
MHI, DPIIT, and the Department of Telecommunications. The States of Andhra Pradesh,
Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh also took part. Industry
associations such as ICEA, ELCINA, CII, ACMA, and SIAM were present, along with Bain & Co.,
the Knowledge Partner for the event.
India’s participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs) is a key focus area as the nation aims
to become a global manufacturing and export powerhouse. Despite being the world’s fifth-
largest economy, India’s share in GVCs remains relatively small. Recognizing the need for
stronger integration into global trade, the workshop convened policymakers, industry leaders,
and experts to discuss opportunities, challenges, and strategies to enhance India’s GVC
participation.
The workshop aimed to analyze India’s current position in GVCs, identify key challenges, and
explore strategic initiatives for improved integration. Discussions spanned various sectors,
including electronics and automotive, emphasizing macroeconomic advantages, policy A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 54
interventions, and industry reforms. The overarching theme underscored the urgency of
action, coordinated policy interventions, and a strategic approach to positioning India as a
global manufacturing hub.
Inaugural Session
The inaugural session featured key addresses from Hon’ble Member Dr. VK Saraswat, NITI
Aayog, CEO of NITI Aayog and Mr. Virat Bhatia, Chairman of the CII Taskforce on GVCs,
followed by a special address by the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog. The session underscored
the crucial role of manufacturing in economic growth and highlighted the need to strengthen
GVC integration to boost exports, create jobs, and enhance value addition. Key areas of focus
included policy shifts, infrastructure improvements, and workforce development, leveraging
India’s demographic and strategic advantages.
Thematic Sessions
Following the inaugural session, the workshop featured three focused discussions. The first
session, chaired by the CEO of NITI Aayog, explored India’s participation in Global Value
Chains (GVCs), highlighting opportunities and challenges. Context setting was provided by
Mr. Ishtiyaque Ahmed, Programme Director (Industry & Foreign Investment Division), NITI
Aayog, followed by expert insights from Mr. Karan Singh (Chairman, Bain & Co. India), state
representatives from Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, and distinguished experts including Dr.
Ajai Chowdhry, Dr. C. Veeramani, and Dr. Deepak Mishra.
The second session focused on enhancing India’s participation in the automotive sector’s
GVCs. Chaired by Dr. Arvind Virmani, Member, NITI Aayog, it included contributions from
Dr. Hanif Qureshi (Joint Secretary, Ministry of Heavy Industries) and industry leaders from
ACMA, SIAM, Sona Comstar, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Motherson Sumi. Representatives
from Maharashtra and Haryana shared state perspectives on strengthening automotive
manufacturing and exports.
The third session examined India’s GVC participation in the electronics sector. Chaired by Mr.
S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics & IT, the session featured insights from Mr. Virat
Bhatia, Chairman of the CII Taskforce on GVCs, Bain & Co., and industry leaders from ICEA,
Dixon Technologies, Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and VVDN Technologies. State representatives
from Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh shared their perspectives, followed by a Q&A session and
concluding remarks by Mr. Virat Bhatia.
Key Insights from State Governments
• Karnataka: The state is deeply integrated into GVCs, particularly in automobiles,
electronics, and aerospace. With investments exceeding INR 40,000 crore, Karnataka
aims to become a global GVC hub through progressive policies and cross-industry
collaborations.
• Andhra Pradesh: Producing 3.5 million mobile phones monthly, the state hosts four
EMCs and focuses on financial incentives, sustainable clusters, and skill development.
Andhra Pradesh accounts for 7.7% of India’s automobile exports and offers competitive
industrial infrastructure.
• Uttar Pradesh: Leading in electronics exports, manufacturing 40% of India’s mobile
phones. The state provides strong incentives, including capital subsidies and tax A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 55
exemptions, but faces challenges such as infrastructure gaps and high production
costs. Future plans include sector mapping, stakeholder analysis, and targeted outreach
activities.
Outcomes
• Addressing Cost Disabilities: Measures to reduce high capital costs, enhance
logistics efficiency, and strengthen supply chain reliability to improve India’s global
competitiveness.
• Developing a Robust Components Ecosystem: Strengthening MSMEs and fostering
domestic component manufacturing to support the automotive and electronics sectors.
• Trade Policy Enhancements: Implementing strategic Free Trade Agreements (FTAs),
tariff reductions, and post-PLI pathways to boost India’s export potential.
• Scaling Up Local Industry:
»Policies to achieve global scale, including FTAs, custom duties, and PLI programs.
»Policies to increase local content through ecosystem development, supplier
support, and skill enhancement.
»Ensuring macroeconomic stability, ease of doing business, and cost-efficient
transportation.
• Strengthening R&D and Innovation: Encouraging higher investments in research,
engineering, and design to transition from “build to print” to “build to spec.” Introducing
incentive schemes, such as a matching fund where the government covers 50% of
industry R&D spending, to reduce reliance on foreign technology and mitigate excessive
royalty payments.
• Government’s Role in Industry Confidence: Both central and state governments may
ensure policy consistency, swift disbursal of commitments, and proactive industry
engagement to create a predictable and supportive business environment. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 56
SDGs with all the States/UTs Planning
Secretaries/Heads of SDG Cells
Jaipur, Rajasthan
NITI Aayog organised the ‘National Conference on Accelerating Sustainable Development
Goals’ in partnership with the host Government of Rajasthan and technical partners UNDP and
UN in India on 4th and 5th March, 2024 in Jaipur. The two-day conference brought together
senior government officials from 31 States and Union Territories and Government of India. The
inaugural session included key addresses by Shri Suman Bery, Hon’ble Vice Chairman NITI
Aayog, Dr. V.K. Paul, Hon’ble Member (Health) NITI Aayog, Shri Sudhansh Pant, Chief Secretary,
Government of Rajasthan and Shri Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator.
The objectives of the conference were to encourage States and UTs to take stock of Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) localisation, exchange experiences on institutionalising the SDGs
at the subnational level, explore the SDG finance landscape at the national and subnational
level and charting a path for accelerating progress at the mid-point of the 2030 SDG agenda.
The second day of the workshop included technical sessions on SDG Monitoring,
Institutionalisation of the SDGs, Financing the SDGs and Lessons from Localising SDGs in
India.
To foster cross-learning and knowledge exchange, the conference included an SDG exhibition.
It provided a platform for States and UTs to showcase their technical products on localisation
at their respective SDG booths. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 57
“This conference exemplifies NITI’s role as a platform for sharing the learnings and good
practices on SDGs from across the country. This being a moment of acceleration, I am
enormously heartened by how much innovation is taking place in the States and UTs in pushing
the SDGs down to the district, block and local level,” said Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman,
NITI Aayog in his keynote address. “This event is an example of NITI Aayog’s commitment to
Cooperative Federalism. I would like to also thank our partners United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) and United Nations (UN) in India for supporting innovative SDG efforts
at the subnational level,” he added.
Dr. V K Paul in his opening address remarked, “We must relentlessly pursue the SDGs. This
conference, I am sure, will not only focus on the goals which are low-hanging or the high-
impact ones alone but also the tough ones as well.”
Three knowledge portals, UNDP ‘SDG Knowledge hub’, ‘Food and Nutrition Security Analysis
Dashboard’ of Government of Rajasthan, ‘SDG -2 (Zero Hunger) Dashboard’ of Government of
Rajasthan were inaugurated by Shri Bhajanlal Sharma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Rajasthan in the
presence of Shri Suman Bery, Hon’ble Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog and Dr. V.K. Paul, Hon’ble,
Member, NITI Aayog.
The UNDP SDG Knowledge hub is a one-stop portal which brings together good practices,
SDG indicator frameworks, SDG linked budgets, among other knowledge products produced
by States and UTs.
Participation was ensured from senior government officials from 31 States and Union Territories;
Central ministries like MoSPI, MDoNER, MoPR, and DEA and a multitude of international
agencies, including UN, UNDP, WFP, and GIZ. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 58
Outcomes
• NITI Aayog encouraged States and Union Territories to establish dedicated SDG cells
within planning departments to coordinate and advise on localizing and accelerating
the SDGs. The conference highlighted the effectiveness of the SDG Coordination Centre
model at the state level and suggested its potential for expansion to other states.
• Tagging budgets to the SDGs is an important first step but more needs to be done to
assess financing gaps. The conference highlighted the potential of leveraging private
capital for SDGs and deploying innovative financial instruments, including sustainable
finance capital and climate financing.
• Investing in capacities for the private sector and civil society organizations (CSOs)
is critical for successful SDG localization with an inclusion lens. The conference
emphasised the importance of a ‘whole of society’ approach, which emphasises the
importance of collective action for greater inclusion.
• It is crucial to set up effective monitoring systems for the SDGs. National Indicator
framework (NIF) based on reliable, disaggregated data, is essential for developing
action plans with relevant departments. The conference also mentioned the efforts of
the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in introducing the Local Indicator Framework (LIF) at
the village level and measuring it through the Panchayat Development Index (PDI). It
was suggested that aligning LIFs with State and District Indicator Frameworks (SIF &
DIF) would ensure a cohesive SDG monitoring system.
• States were encouraged to set up SDG Centres/Cells and develop statistical systems
for measuring SDG progress. Localisation of SDGs is paramount to the achievement
of the 2030 Agenda. Post the workshop, States/UTs have developed strategic action
plan and targeted interventions for implementing SDGs. Some States have accelerated
their existing efforts through engagement with all relevant stakeholders, developed
State/District/Block Indicator Frameworks for measuring SDG progress at districts
and blocks. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 59
State as a driver of Export Led Growth
Chandigarh
India is emerging as a highly prosperous and robust economy. The economy is expected
to grow to a size of more than USD 4 trillion in FY 2024-25 and grow to USD 5 trillion in
FY 2026–27. By 2030, India will be a USD 7 trillion economy, positioning itself as the 2nd
largest economy in the Asia-Pacific region and the 3rd largest in the World economy. India’s
economic system has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of the pandemic, and
the implementation of meaningful and effective economic reforms has propelled its journey
from an emerging economy to a “developed country” by 2047.
The state governments have played a pivotal role in expanding India’s export growth trajectory.
Over the year 2022-23, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh have
emerged as the top five states in India in absolute export numbers. Gujarat takes the lead
with a share of 33%, followed by Maharashtra with 16%. Tamil Nadu’s share stands at 9%, while
Karnataka accounts for approximately 6%, and Uttar Pradesh contributes around 5%.
In this background, a One-day workshop on “States as Drivers of Export-led Growth” was
organised in Chandigarh. The objectives of the Workshop were to enhance export preparedness
among States and Union Territories by empowering stakeholders to identify strategies and
improve parameters that impact a state’s exports, to create a shared understanding of the
various policy issues and implementation constraints, identify products and services with
export potential, identify measures needed to build capacities to enhance quality of products,
increase access to market, remedy the crucial gaps in export infrastructure at the state and
District levels and suggest measures needed to create export hubs. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 60
The Workshop was composed of three panel discussions on “A way towards Effective
Participation of MSMEs”, “Strengthening Export Infrastructure & Logistics” and “States as
Drivers of Exports and Service Export: Challenges and Opportunities”, a galaxy of speakers
comprising experts from state governments, industry bodies, think tanks and industry
representatives. The participants included the industry veterans, Government of Rajasthan,
Government of Punjab, NITI Aayog, PHDCCI, Academicians also deliberated on the subjects.
Exports promote growth in a country by expanding markets, generating revenue, driving
productivity improvements, and facilitating specialization, making them integral to the
nation’s economic development. India aims to become a global export player by promoting
its States and districts as export hubs by unlocking regional competitiveness and harnessing
our regional diversity. The dynamic policy environment provided by the government along
with efforts of the state government to connect with global value chains will enhance the
export volumes in the coming times. India is sitting on a leap of opportunities and it is for us
to in-cash them. India grows when the States grow.
Outcomes
Indian exports have demonstrated their tenacity by weathering the difficulties presented by
supply-chain problems and geopolitical factors. India wants to keep up this momentum by
pushing its states and districts as export hubs to establish itself as a major player in the global
export market. It is acknowledged that India can increase its export potential by utilizing its
natural diversity and releasing regional competitiveness. To propel the States and districts as
engines of export growth there is a need for extended support and hand holding.
• Wider collaborations and engagements between Governments, particularly state
governments, think tanks, industry bodies, and academia should be organised to provide
a platform for interactions for capacity building and comprehensive deliberations
relating to strategy building, policy formulation, and support for problem resolution, to
promote states as export hubs.
• There is a need for harnessing the capacity of the large network of MSMEs in India
as they form the backward linkage and major part of the supply chains for expanded A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 61
exports. MSME can lead the way to enhanced exports as engines of growth at the state
and district levels; particular emphasis on women-led MSMEs needs to be laid.
• Adoption of best practices of leading export-oriented States, particularly districts,
to promote states as export hubs need to be undertaken by states to expand their
efficiencies and capacities.
• Export competitiveness primarily stems from the cost of exports. It is imperative that
we concentrate on cost reduction to enhance states’ competitiveness and secure a
larger market share.
• Services should start taking a lead in the total export of states. Rapidly declining
telecommunication costs, increasing internet adoption around the World, and the
proliferation of broadband internet services have made it possible to deliver services
across long distances. India can play to its strength in this arena and expand its services
exports given the high penetration of internet usage and government reforms such as
the JAM trinity, one of the lowest average cost of 1GB of mobile internet data globally
and Bharatnet among others.
The Workshop with its series of deliberations highlighted numerous opportunities for
states, districts in particular, to become export hubs. Exports are one of the ways by which
companies can expand their horizon, where India has a large potential. This can be harnessed
by expanding the Ease of doing exports and leveraging FTAs supported by the prudent and
strategic reforms by the Government. This will propel states to face the challenges of scaling
up the volumes, undertaking sustainable practices and implementing the ESG norms and
reducing export costs, and become hubs of exports. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 62
Improving the Innovation Aptitude and
performance of the States and Union
Territories
New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the roadmap for Viksit Bharat at 2047 during his address
to the Nation on the 76th Independence Day through the maxim, “When our States grow,
India grows; this is the time for cooperative and competitive federalism.” Therefore, focusing
on states as drivers of economic growth and employment is a crucial step towards bringing
competitive cooperative federalism to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 (India’s GDP
of US$ 32 trillion by 2047).
In order to achieve the aspirational vision of becoming a developed nation during the next 25
years, states need to be at the forefront of driving the innovation ecosystem of the country. The
role of the state as a critical growth inhibitor is critical. Indian states must invest in technology,
infrastructure, and innovation to increase productivity and foster a business environment
that encourages competition and creativity. This workshop aims to address the pressing
need for fostering innovation at the state and union territory levels. With innovation playing
a pivotal role in the growth and development of every nation, it is imperative to empower
state governments and entities with the tools and knowledge to enhance their innovation
capabilities. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 63
As the first step, this workshop takes an important step towards the vision of Vikasit Bharat
2047. This workshop will serve as a forum for the exchange of ideas, the sharing of peer-
to-peer learnings and best practises, and the development of strategies for fostering an
innovative culture.
In addition to the Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog and
Dr. Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, 5 Secretaries of the
Government of India graced the occasion. Central Scientific Ministries/Departments viz.
Department of Science & Technology, Department of Biotechnology, Department of Scientific
& Industrial Research, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Electronics & Information
Technology, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Department of Earth
Sciences, Department of Environment and Forests and Climate Change, Ministry of New &
Renewable Energy, Department of Agricultural Research and Education, All States and UTs,
IITs, FICCI, ASSOCHAM, CII, and Institute for Competitiveness participated in the workshop.
The following important points were highlighted during the Workshop:
• Creating ecosystem to support valley of death in innovation cycle, improving Innovation
ranking through enabling Government policies, enabling ecosystem for innovation
in the States by creating necessary infrastructure, providing adequate funding and
develop human resources to carry out innovation related activities
• Focus innovation to make Viksit Bharat by 2047
• Codifying best practices for sharing with the states
• Institutionalising Innovation in the country
• Building capacity to develop home-grown solutions to the domestic problems
• Application of AI in domestic challenges
• Disruption in technologies to address global challenges
• “Blue Economy” for the sustainable utilization of ocean resources to address national
and global challenges
• Emphasised on the economic significance of oceans, encompassing tourism, recreation,
and the transportation of goods globally. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 64
• Peaceful use of nuclear energy in Agriculture, health, power and water.
There were five panel discussions held at this workshop:
i. Empowering Indian States: Unleashing Innovation Potential for Viksit Bharat @2047,
ii. Innovative States: Showcasing Transformative Journeys,
iii. Collaborative Innovation: States Partnering for Collective Growth,
iv. Lessons Learned and Replicating Innovation Success Stories and
v. Sharing of States’ Best Practices.
Outcomes
Building a Self-Sufficient Innovation Ecosystem: Acknowledge the geopolitical importance of
cultivating an independent innovation ecosystem, while addressing challenges in stakeholder
unity and streamlining financing for collaborative development.
• Comprehensive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Framework: Emphasise the
significance of a comprehensive IPR framework and innovative patent policies,
considering amendments for inclusivity across age groups and vital sectors like
healthcare.
• Institutionalizing Innovation: Stress the necessity of institutionalizing innovation
within the national framework, drawing insights from successful examples like the
telecom revolution. Focus on business process innovation, nurturing a robust start-up
ecosystem, and implementing a well-defined competition policy.
• Strategic Use of AI: Encourage a pragmatic use-case approach in artificial intelligence,
urging organizations like NITI Aayog to creatively leverage AI for developmental
challenges. Prioritise understanding how data regenerates and fine-tune AI in
interpreting the evolving data landscape.
• Promotion of Blue Economy: Invest in research and development for the Blue Economy,
promoting sustainable utilization of ocean resources for economic development, and
providing support to various industries. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 65
• Emphasis on Innovation in Economic Development: Highlight the role of creativity
in generating ideas for economic development. Stress the importance of identifying,
refining, and validating concepts in the innovation process. Recognise the crucial role
of ecosystem support for idea commercialization and prototyping.
• State-Level Innovation Strategies: Encourage states to strategically position
themselves by showcasing innovation assets, prioritizing goals beyond daily mandates,
including academic excellence and fostering vibrant SME sectors. Promote innovative
policymaking at the state level.
• Promoting a “One-India” Approach: Foster collaboration, grassroots capabilities, and
an innovation-centric language with a united “One-India” approach. Prioritise tangible
outcomes in the IPR ecosystem and innovation-focused parameters for states.
• Active Involvement of MSMEs: Recognise the pivotal role of Micro, Small, and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) in the innovation landscape. Encourage their active involvement
for a thriving innovation ecosystem.
• Policy Sandbox Ecosystem and Education: Embrace a policy sandbox ecosystem,
challenging the legacy mindset. Prioritise education and skill development for a
capable workforce. Encourage public-private partnerships to provide resources and
infrastructure for innovation.
• Cultural Shift towards Innovation: Cultivate a procurement mindset prioritizing
homegrown solutions. Promote a cultural shift from being a consumer to a producer
of innovation. Advocate for a holistic approach to bridge the gap between importing
and producing innovation.
• Government’s Role in Fostering Innovation: Advocate for a pro-innovation government,
increase deep-tech capital, break down silos within the innovation ecosystem, and
implement innovative policymaking with a shift towards output-based incentives.
• Addressing Fragmentation in State-Level Innovation Policies: Encourage states to
develop overarching science and technology policies. Advocate for comprehensive
innovation policies to bridge the fragmented nature of state-level policies.
• Manufacturing Innovation: Establish a “Making India Innovation Strategy” to enhance
collaboration among states. Explore the success of open innovation challenges to
foster collaboration between states.
• Promoting Interstate Collaboration: Amend the India Innovation Index to include a
section on initiatives fostering cross-state collaboration. Explore innovative funding
models to facilitate collaborative growth. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 66
National Workshop on Strengthening
Mental Health Services and Care in India
Bengaluru, Karnataka
The NITI Aayog conducted a National Workshop under the chairpersonship of Dr. V.K Paul,
Hon’ble Member (Health), NITI Aayog. Mental disorders are a major public health concern
in India. The National Mental Health Program (NMHP) has undergone major strategic
revisions throughout its existence, from instituting a district as the entity for planning and
implementation under the District Mental Health Program (DMHP), to integrating it with the
National Rural Health Mission for the productive scale up of the program.
There are several other opportunities to strengthen mental health services across the districts
including increasing the mental health workforce, promoting timely community-based care,
understanding mental health needs of children, women and vulnerable age groups, making
it crucial to ascertain a roadmap for overall strengthening of DMHP. The purpose of the
workshop was to elicit the views of States and other stakeholders on existing gaps and
challenges under the program and also to learn the best practices from a few States which
can further be replicated in other States/UTs with their own contextualization. The sessions
of the workshop were designed to clearly elucidate gaps and challenges in implementation
of DMHP, Strengthening Primary Mental health care, Rights of people with mental illness,
and new concepts and initiatives to be taken for transforming mental healthcare in India, by
states and the way forward. The workshop was divided four sessions, beginning with technical
presentations, a panel discussion followed by three round table discussions on important
topics including: A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 67
• Transforming Mental Healthcare in India- Panel Discussion
• Strengthening DMHP ensuring availability of mental health services (Infrastructure, HR,
Training, Treatment and IEC etc.) - Way forward- round table Discussion 1.
• Developing and scaling-up Primary Mental Healthcare through Ayushman Aarogya
Mandirs -Round table Discussion 2 Rights of persons with mental illness, including
reintegration, rehabilitation & empowerment - round table Discussion 3
• Rights of persons with mental illness, including reintegration, rehabilitation &
empowerment - round table Discussion 3
The highlights of the workshop were the panel discussion chaired by Hon’ble Member Health,
NITI Aayog, Dr. V.K Paul, Co-chaired by chairman National Medical Commission (NMC), Dr. B.N
Gangadhar Sir on “Transforming Mental Healthcare in India” The panelist included Director
NIMHANS, Dr. Pratima Murthy, Director IHBAS, Dr. Rajinder Dhamija and Social Scientist from
TISS, Dr. Ketaki Ranade. Many insights, recommendations and thought-provoking learning
emerged from the discussion to the participants.
The national-level workshop was graced by the presence of Chairman and President, National
Medical Commission, Dr. B. N. Gangadhar; Economic Adviser, MoHFW, Smt. Indrani Kaushal;
Director, NIMHANS, Dr. Pratima Murthy; Principal Secretary (Health & Family Welfare), Govt.
of Karnataka, Shri Anil Kumar T. K.; senior officials from MoHFW, DGHS, ICMR, and 31 States/
UTs, as well as sectoral and technical experts from WHO India, UNICEF, and development
partners who have been contributing in the space of primary healthcare and mental health. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 68
Outcomes
Broad thematic areas and key takeaways from the workshop
• Revamping the existing NMHP with an overarching “National Mental Health Mission”.
• focused attention on the indicator of Unmet need for treatment for mental health
patients in a time bound mission mode manner beginning with bringing it down to
40% from the existing 80% by 2027, 20% by 2030 and to 10% by 2035.
• Optimization of MD/DNB seats in state medical colleges/Private medical colleges, with
a target setting of harnessing 1000 seats within next one year and further targeting
induction of 20000 more psychiatrists in the system.
• An integrated approach and convergence of traditional systems of medicine, yoga and
meditation with conventional systems of treatment.
• Utilizing the beds of Medical Health Establishments not only for treating but also for
training and teaching.
• Comprehensive Service delivery Platform to provide continuum of mental healthcare
beginning at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, PHCs, and CHCs to district hospitals under
National Mental Health Mission.
• Suggestions to create dedicated cadre of mental health medical officers, use of mobile
mental health services and strengthening counselling skills of CHOs. 8. Introduce tools
to train primary mental healthcare providers on an algorithmic approach to screen,
assess, identify, classify, counsel, treat and refer patients with mental illnesses. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 69
Accelerating Manufacturing Growth in
India
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
India’s manufacturing sector holds immense potential for fostering economic growth, driving
industrial diversification, enhancing export capabilities, and creating large-scale employment.
At the state level, the manufacturing sector can play a pivotal role in advancing the country’s
structural transformation by generating opportunities, reducing dependency on imports, and
strengthening the domestic supply chain. The focus on state-level manufacturing strategies
not only promises to address regional economic disparities but also contributes to national
objectives like economic self-reliance, GDP growth, and employment generation. As the global
economic landscape shifts, India’s states must be empowered to adopt innovative, efficient,
and sustainable practices to boost their manufacturing capacities and compete globally.
In recognition of the crucial role state-level manufacturing plays in India’s broader economic
landscape, a workshop was organised aimed at bringing together key stakeholders,
policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss strategies, best practices, and the enabling
role of government policies. This workshop aimed to create a collaborative platform for
sharing insights and exploring ways in which India’s states can accelerate the development
of their manufacturing sectors. The event focused on two primary areas: the successful
implementation of best practices in manufacturing at the state level and the importance of
robust policy frameworks to support industrial growth and sustainability. NITI Aayog organised
the workshop in collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and AIGGPA, Madhya
Pradesh. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 70
The workshop witnessed the participation of key figures from leading states and industry
participants, offering a diverse range of perspectives on enhancing manufacturing ecosystems.
Under the guidance of experts from NITI Aayog and leading policymakers, the sessions
provided invaluable insights into how states can unlock their manufacturing potential and
contribute to India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing hub.
The workshop aimed to:
• Highlight and discuss the best practices and innovative strategies employed by leading
states in India to foster the growth of the manufacturing sector, including infrastructure
development, technological transformation, and alignment with global trends.
• Explore the vital role of government policy in supporting the establishment and growth
of manufacturing units at the state level, focusing on policy alignment with regional
strengths and industry needs.
• Identifying how states can build competitive advantage by offering incentives,
attracting anchor industries, and building resilient supply chains.
• Address the importance of skill development, workforce health, and access to capital
in ensuring the sustainable growth of manufacturing enterprises.
• Explore collaborative opportunities between large manufacturers and MSMEs, aiming
to elevate manufacturing standards, enhance quality control, and introduce cutting-
edge technologies in the industry.
Through these objectives, the workshop sought to empower states with knowledge and
practical tools to enhance their manufacturing landscapes, fostering long-term economic
stability and global competitiveness.
Session Details along with brief of every session
Segment 1
The first session of the workshop, ‘Best Practices in State-Level Manufacturing,’ highlighted
the comprehensive and holistic endeavours undertaken by leading states to enhance
manufacturing production and exports. Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Honourable Member of NITI Aayog,
chaired the session, with Shri Ishtiyaque Ahmed, Senior Adviser at NITI Aayog, serving as the
moderator.
Attended by 45 participants from diverse states and leaders from industry chamber, the
session featured distinguished speakers such as Shri Ajitabh Sharma, Principal Secretary,
Industries (Rajasthan), Shri B.K Shivakumar, Director, Department of Industries and Commerce
(Karnataka), Shri Pranjal Yadav, Secretary, MSME (Uttar Pradesh), Shri Chandramauli Shukla,
Managing Director, MP Industrial Development Corporation Limited (Madhya Pradesh),
Shri Prashant Jilova, Additional Commissioner, Industries (Gujarat), and Shri Manash Pratim
Rajkhowa, Additional Director, Transformation and Development (Assam).
The discourse emphasised the significant potential of the manufacturing sector at the state
level in advancing India’s overall economic development. Panellists engaged in discussions
on the best practices employed by leading Indian states within their respective sectors of
excellence, exploring topics such as focused industrial infrastructure, technological and
digital transformation, sustainable manufacturing practices, and alignment with global
trends. Noteworthy measures included the development of industrial parks, special economic
zones, logistics and transportation networks, and digital infrastructure to attract investments. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 71
Furthermore, emphasis was placed on the integration of automation, artificial intelligence,
and digitalization to enhance competitiveness. Sustainable manufacturing practices,
encompassing resource efficiency, renewable energy adoption, waste management, and
environmentally friendly production processes, were also highlighted. The strategic alignment
of manufacturing approaches with emerging global trends, spanning technology, digital
transformation, sustainable practices, supply chain resilience, and diversification, was a key
focus for the leading states.
Segment 2
The second session, ‘Manufacturing Gap Assessment’ highlighted the importance of policy in
supporting industries and underscored the role government support in establishment stage
of manufacturing units. Many state-specific policy proposals were put forward by industry
participants. States can build a policy structure aligning to their strengths in terms of their
resource base to attract investments in manufacturing. Further, building a competitive spirit
amongst states over offering better incentives than others would bring out of the box solutions
to industry problems. Attracting anchor industries which can act as a customer to other
manufacturers and in effect set a chain reaction for building supply chain ecosystem was
another suggestion put forward. India must also think not only of manufacturing for India but
for the world. This will instil cost competitiveness and quality consciousness matching global
standards right from inception stage. Value of seed money and capital continues to remain
of primary importance for establishment of manufacturing enterprises. Availability of credit
at competitive rates will ensure dreams of building manufacturing enterprises are realised.
Manufacturing cannot be sustained without a healthy and skilled workforce. Investments in
better health and early skill education is an area where states need to continue investing.
Further, role of bigger manufacturers can contribute towards enhancement of manufacturing
output was also highlighted. Large manufacturers can connect with MSMEs and impart quality
control techniques and help in adoption of newer technologies. The session was attended by
a total of 41 participants. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 72
Outcomes
• Achieving State-Level Manufacturing Potential: The manufacturing sector at the
state level is a powerful catalyst for India’s overall economic development, driving GDP
growth, structural transformation, and export expansion. Strengthening state-level
manufacturing can enhance domestic supply chains, reduce import dependency, and
bolster economic security.
• Best Practices in Manufacturing: Leading Indian states have successfully implemented
key strategies to boost manufacturing, including the development of industrial parks,
special economic zones (SEZs), and robust logistics and transportation networks.
These infrastructure improvements are critical for attracting investments and enhancing
manufacturing output. Further, the integration of automation, artificial intelligence, and
digitalization is essential to remain competitive globally. States are leveraging these
technologies to modernise manufacturing processes and increase efficiency.
• Enhancing Sustainability in Manufacturing: Sustainable manufacturing practices are
becoming central to modern industrial development. States are adopting resource-
efficient methods, renewable energy sources, waste management techniques, and
environmentally friendly production processes to meet global environmental standards
while boosting competitiveness.
• Global Trends and Strategic Alignment: States need to align their manufacturing
approaches with global trends, focusing on digital transformation, technology
adoption, and sustainability. Embracing these trends will help states enhance their
competitiveness and ensure their manufacturing sectors are resilient and adaptable to
future challenges.
• Role of Government Policy: Government policies play a critical role in fostering the
establishment and growth of manufacturing units. States must design policies that
align with their unique resource strengths, and the competitive spirit between states
can encourage innovative solutions to common industry challenges. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 73
• Proposals to attract anchor industries, which can act as demand generators for local
manufacturers, are vital for building integrated and resilient supply chain ecosystems.
India must also focus on manufacturing for global markets, ensuring cost competitiveness
and high-quality standards from the very inception of manufacturing enterprises.
• Importance of Capital and Credit Availability: Access to affordable capital and credit
remains a key determinant in the establishment and growth of manufacturing units.
Offering competitive interest rates and seed funding for new ventures will help bring
innovative ideas to life and foster entrepreneurial growth in the manufacturing sector.
• Promoting Skilled Workforce and Healthcare Investments: For long-term
manufacturing sustainability, investments in workforce health and skills development
are essential. States must continue investing in early education and vocational training
to ensure a steady supply of skilled labor that meets the evolving demands of modern
manufacturing.
• Collaboration Between Large Manufacturers and MSMEs: Larger manufacturers have
a significant role to play in supporting the growth of MSMEs by sharing quality control
practices, technology adoption, and best manufacturing techniques. This collaboration
can elevate the entire manufacturing ecosystem and help MSMEs enhance their
competitiveness and quality standards.
• Policy Incentives and Competitive Spirit: Encouraging healthy competition among
states through better incentives, tax breaks, and subsidies can drive state-specific
innovation and lead to more effective solutions for manufacturing challenges. States
that tailor their policies to their strengths, resources, and industry needs are likely to
attract more investments.
• Focus on Global Manufacturing Standards: India’s manufacturing sector must prioritise
producing goods that meet international standards. This focus on quality and cost
competitiveness will help Indian products find a strong foothold in global markets,
further positioning India as a hub for global manufacturing.
In summary, the workshop underscored the need for a collaborative and multi-faceted
approach to advancing state-level manufacturing. By combining technological innovation,
sustainable practices, supportive policies, and a skilled workforce, states can play a critical
role in driving India’s vision of becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 74
Expanding Quality Higher Education
through State Public Universities
New Delhi
NITI Aayog organised a National Conference on ‘Expanding Quality Higher Education
through State Public Universities’ on Thursday, 2nd November 2023 at the Dr. Ambedkar
International Centre, New Delhi. Over 50 Vice Chancellors and senior academics from State
Public Universities of 20 States and Union Territories across India and Chairpersons of select
State Higher Education Councils participated in the day-long conference that focused on four
broad themes including Quality, Funding and Financing, Governance, and Employability.
The welcome address was delivered by Shri Rajib Sen, Senior Adviser (Education), NITI
Aayog. Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog, delivered the Keynote Address at the
Inaugural Session of the Conference. NITI Aayog Members Dr. V.K. Saraswat and Dr. V.K. Paul,
Prof. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC, and Prof. G.D. Sharma, President, Association of Indian
Universities (AIU) also spoke during the Inaugural Session.
The first session of the Conference focused on the thematic area of Quality. Prof. R.
Limbadri, Chairman of the Telangana State Higher Education Council, delivered the keynote.
Vice Chancellor (VC) of National Law University Delhi Prof. Bajpai spoke on the theme of
Improving Quality of Higher Education and Research in State Public Universities. VC of
National Law University Jodhpur Prof. Kaur spoke on Digitalization of Higher Education, and
VC of Savitribai Phule Pune University Prof. Gosavi spoke on Promoting Internationalization
of Higher Education. Prof. Khan from University of Kashmir, and Prof. Agsar from Gulbarga
University also presented their ideas on the theme.
The second session delved into the area of Funding and Financing. Prof. Dinesh Singh, Vice A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 75
Chairman, Jammu & Kashmir Higher Education Council delivered the keynote and shared
global best practices from USA and Europe. Prof. Rai, VC of University of Lucknow shared his
experiences on Financing of Higher Education in State Public Universities, and Prof. Reddy, VC
of S.V. University Tirupati made observations on Future Focus Areas for RUSA. Dr. Gupta, VC
of Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, and Prof. Ramana, VC of Rajiv Gandhi
University of Knowledge Technologies, Basar, made brief presentations on their experiences
of financing in technical universities.
The third thematic session of the conference focused on Governance. The inaugural and
concluding keynotes were delivered by Odisha State Higher Education Council Vice Chairman
Prof. Das and Haryana State Higher Education Council Chairman Prof. Sharma. Guru Govind
Singh Indraprastha University VC Prof. Verma spoke elaborately on Improving Governance
and Autonomy of State Public Universities. Haridev Joshi University of Journalism and Mass
Communication VC Prof. Sudhi Rajiv shared insights on Recruitment and Capacity Building of
Faculty and Administrators. Prof. Kunnamal, VC of University of Kerala, and Dr Gupta, VC of
Gujarat University shared their regional experiences.
The fourth and final session of the Conference was on the theme of Employability. Prof.
Reddy, Chairman of Andhra Pradesh State Higher Education Council delivered the keynote.
Dr. Dev, VC of Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women shared insights on her
university’s experiences with Skilling and Employability Enhancement for Students across
Streams. Prof. Kulkarni, VC of University of Mumbai elaborated on how his university has
facilitated Academia-Industry Collaboration in innovative ways. Prof. Jagannathan, VC of
Periyar University, Prof. Tripathi, VC of Uttarakhand Ayurved University, Lt. Gen. Cheema,
VC of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University and Dr. Jayakar, VC of Bangalore
University shared employability insights in the context of their respective institutions.
The conference concluded with detailed Conference Takeaways presented by Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj
Mittal, Secretary General of AIU. Dr. Shashank Shah, Senior Specialist (Higher Education), NITI
Aayog, proposed the Vote of Thanks. The Conference was organised as part of an ongoing
consultation exercise with diverse stakeholders to explore innovative and impactful ways of
strengthening the quality and outcomes of State Public Universities across India in alignment
with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020. The findings from these elaborate
consultations form the basis of the NITI Policy Report on ‘Expanding Quality Higher Education
through States and State Public Universities’. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 76
Outcomes
A. Quality
•
Role of State Public Universities: NEP 2020 aims to bolster access, relevance, and quality
in education. %81 of students are in State Public Universities and affiliated colleges,
hence the burden of quality lies more on these Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
•
Capacity Building: Capacity building of faculty will be instrumental in improving the
quality of higher education. Capacity building needs to be done in using technology,
writing impactful research projects, proposals for grants, etc. There should be capacity
building of the academic leadership as well - i.e., training on being efficient Vice
Chancellors.
•
Resource Optimisation: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) must strive for optimal
resource utilization, ensuring efficient allocation for better outcomes. Currently, there
is underutilisation of resources, for instance, %85 of the time the laboratories are lying
idle.
•
Publication Quality: HEIs must shift the focus from quantity to quality in academic
publications by promoting rigorous standards.
•
Proactive State Councils: There is a need to enhance the proactive role of State Higher
Education Councils and empower them in ensuring and assessing the quality of teaching.
•
Teaching Quality: The quality of teaching should be measured. To do this, there can be
a ranking of universities based on how good they are as teaching universities. There
should also be incentives for good teachers.
•
Improving Digital Infrastructure: This is vital to facilitate advanced learning methods,
including blended learning and flipped classrooms. This can be done by ensuring that
every student has devices, bandwidth, and internet access.
•
Internationalization: There is a need to promote international collaborations to elevate
the overall quality of education. The AIU is creating an All-India Network on International
Higher Education for the purpose of hand holding other universities.
B. Funding and Financing
•
Increase Budget Allocation: Currently around %4.5 of GDP is being spent on education.
However, at least %6 of GDP should be spent on education as recommended by various
commissions from the Kothari Commission in 1964 to the NEP in 2020.
•
Funding of State Public Universities: This is low as compared to Central Universities. A
funding model based on the number of students at the university can be followed.
• RUSA Evaluation: There is a need to evaluate the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan
(RUSA), now PM-USHA, and scrutinise the utilization of its funds.
•
External Resource Mobilisation: HEIs must explore avenues for external resource
mobilisation through consultancy and other means. When there is performance-linked
funding, it is essentially increasing the gap between the good and bad universities.
There should also be flexibility to enhance CSR funding for higher education.
•
Autonomous Status Impact: State Governments must examine the potential impact
on the revenue model of State Public Universities if the affiliate colleges are granted
autonomous status. Moreover, the capacity building of potential universities to become
autonomous must also be a priority area. A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 77
C. Governance
•
Appointment Processes: There is a need to strengthen the processes related to the
appointment of Vice-Chancellors, Pro Vice-Chancellors, Registrars, and faculty
members. Like the UGC, the State Councils for Higher Education should be empowered
to sanction posts and allocate funds instead of the State Government.
•
Explore PPP: There is a need to explore if State Public Universities can work in PPP
mode like IIITs. There is a need to increase private sector participation in the State
Public Universities.
•
Utility Charges: Currently, Universities are charged at commercial rates for electricity
and water. State Public Universities may not be treated as commercial entities as
education is considered as a social good.
•
Rule Amendments: There is a need to outline transparent processes for making
amendments in university rules and ensure increased participation of academicians.
D. Employability
•
Internships: NEP has made internship mandatory. Hence, an Internship Bank should be
created in universities to help students fetch internships.
•
Industry Collaboration: University and industry collaboration should be promoted
through industry bodies and associations like CII, NASSCOM, and AIU. Multinational
companies can also be roped in to give professional certification to students.
•
Professor of Practice Roles: There is a need to build on the introduction of “Professor of
Practice” roles in HEIs to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Universities
should also create qualified trainers who can impart training to people in different
sectors and age groups to facilitate lifelong learning. Notes A Compendium on Key Takeaways of WorkshopsA Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshops 80

A Compendium on Key Takeaways of Workshop - An initiative to support States FY 2023-24