Why Did Congress and RJD Call Nitish Kumar’s Absence From NITI Aayog Meeting ‘Unfortunate’?
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Synopsis
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s absence from the NITI Aayog meeting has stirred political discourse. Leaders from Congress and RJD have labeled it as 'unfortunate', hinting at a significant political message behind the decision. This article explores the implications of his absence and the meeting's key outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Nitish Kumar's absence raises political questions.
- Meeting theme: Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047.
- PM Modi calls for future-ready cities.
- Importance of Team India for development.
- Focus on enhancing women's workforce participation.
New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) The absence of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar from the significant NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has ignited political speculation. Leaders from both the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have deemed this absence as "unfortunate" and suggestive of a more profound political statement.
This 10th meeting of the NITI Aayog Governing Council took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Saturday. It gathered numerous Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, and Administrators from various states, concentrating on development strategies under the banner ‘Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047’.
In remarks to IANS, Senior Congress leader and MP Tariq Anwar stated, “Nitish Kumar’s absence from the NITI Aayog meeting is significant. As the Chief Minister in a double-engine government, his choice to skip this meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Modi, conveys an essential political message.”
RJD leader Manoj Jha voiced similar concerns, saying, “If the reports are accurate, I find it unfortunate. Bihar is neither on autopilot nor in pilot mode. Daily reports of loot and murder are alarming. In such circumstances, the Chief Minister’s absence from a crucial national development meeting is concerning. I am unaware of who represented Bihar in his stead.”
Earlier that day, Prime Minister Modi addressed the NITI Aayog meeting, advocating for cooperative development between the Centre and the states. He stressed the necessity of creating “future-ready cities” to keep pace with India’s rapid urban growth.
“India is urbanizing swiftly. We should aim for future-ready cities, where growth, innovation, and sustainability drive urban development,” the Prime Minister asserted.
Emphasizing the concept of “Team India,” PM Modi remarked, “We must accelerate development. When the Centre and all states unite and cooperate as a team, no objective is unachievable.”
He also encouraged states to enhance tourism, proposing that each state should cultivate at least one globally recognized tourist destination.
“Our mantra should be: One State: One Global Destination. This will not only uplift the specific location but also foster development in the adjacent areas,” he explained.
On the topic of gender inclusion, PM Modi called for policies that boost women’s participation in the workforce.
“We need to ensure the respectful integration of women into the workforce through progressive legislation and policies,” he emphasized.
The NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting serves as a platform for the Centre and states/UTs to engage in discussions aimed at advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 and build consensus on how states can contribute to making India a developed nation.
Point of View
The absence of a Chief Minister from a pivotal meeting like the NITI Aayog raises eyebrows. It signifies possible rifts within political alliances and may compromise Bihar's representation in crucial national discussions. The situation warrants close observation as it unfolds, affecting both state and national politics.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nitish Kumar skip the NITI Aayog meeting?
Nitish Kumar's absence has been interpreted by political leaders from Congress and RJD as a significant decision, suggesting deeper political implications.
What was discussed at the NITI Aayog meeting?
The meeting focused on development strategies, particularly under the theme ‘Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047’.
Who attended the NITI Aayog meeting?
The meeting was attended by various Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, and Administrators from across India.
What did PM Modi emphasize during the meeting?
PM Modi emphasized the need for collaborative development and creating future-ready cities to accommodate urbanization.
How does this absence affect Bihar's political standing?
This absence may suggest a lack of alignment within the ruling coalition and could impact Bihar's influence in national discussions.
