Ashok Lahiri: Former chief economic adviser Ashok Lahiri is all set to become the new vice-chairman of Niti Aayog, replacing Suman Bery. The selection of Lahiri is seen by many in political circles as a win for Bharatiya Janata Party and a loss for Trinamool Congress.
Who Is Ashok Lahiri?
A BJP MLA from Balurghat, Lahiri is not contesting the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections. The former JNU Professor has a rich career that spans academia, policymaking and financial institutions. Lahiri brings a rare blend of administrative experience and intellectual brilliance.
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Ashok Lahiri served as the Chief Economic Adviser of India between 2002 and 2007 under both Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, a rare and bipartisan credential in today’s polarized environment. Lahiri was also a member of the 15th Finance Commission and held eminent positions at institutions such as the Asian Development Bank and the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy.
Entry Into Politics
Lahiri entered active politics in 2021 as a candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state of West Bengal and went on to win the prestigious Balurghat seat.
The appointment of Lahiri as NITI Aayog Vice Chairman is seen as a dual signal of competence and regional representation. It reinforces BJP’s narrative that it can elevate leaders from Bengal to positions of national importance, something it has often accused the TMC of failing to achieve.
The presence of Lahiri at NITI Aayog could influence policy direction while also lending the BJP government an image of economic seriousness. Elevating a Bengali leader to a high-profile national post could resonate with voters who seek greater representation in Delhi. Moreover, the appointment of Lahiri subtly repositions the BJP as a party that values expertise over mere political loyalty. Lahiri’s career predates his association with the BJP, making his appointment appear merit-driven rather than purely partisan.
