• Aspirational District Programme aims to quickly and effectively transform some of the most underdeveloped districts of the country.
• It was launched in January 2018.

Implementation

• Convergence of Central & State Schemes.
  • This scheme has been implemented along with the central and state schemes.
• Collaboration of Central, State level ‘Prabhari’ Officers & District Collectors.
  • In its successful implementation, there is important cooperation of the ‘in-charge’ officers of the central, state level and district collectors.
• Competition among districts through monthly delta ranking.
  • The competition between these districts is maintained through equated monthly delta rankings. So, they are eager to make it a success.
  • The ranking of aspirational districts combines innovative use of data with practical governance, placing the district at the centre of inclusive growth.
• As per the norms for the planning of aspirational districts, each district should prepare an action plan in consultation with the State and Central officers in charge, after which it should be sent to NITI Aayog for final approval of the Empowered Committee of Secretaries constituted for the programme.

Parameters for Best Aspirational District

It envisages rapid development of selected districts on basis of a composite index based on five parameters:

1. Health and nutrition,
2. Education,
3. Financial inclusion and skill development,
4. Agriculture and water resources, and
5. Basic infrastructure.

Latest News

• NITI Aayog has declared Haridwar city of Uttarakhand as the best aspirational district on the basis of five parameters.
• Haridwar has secured the first position in the Basic Infrastructure theme. Now, an additional allocation of Rs 3 crore will be made to this city.

Sources

1. NITI Aayog
2. Vikaspedia