Dr M Srinivas replaces Dr VK Paul as NITI Aayog Member

New Delhi: In a significant revamp at India's apex policy body, Niti Aayog, the government has appointed All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi Director, Dr M Sirinivas, as a member of NITI Aayog, replacing its Member, Dr VK Paul. The move marks his transition from hospital administration to a role in national policy-making.

The announcement was made by AIIMS New Delhi on Sunday, following the official order from the government. In a statement issued by its media cell, Prof. (Dr.) Rima Dada said the appointment ''marks a significant moment not only for AIIMS New Delhi but for the entire health sector'', as an institutional leader moves to shape policy at the national level, according to a UNI report.

Dr M Sirinivas, who has been serving as the Director of AIIMS Delhi since September 22, 2022. Earlier, he was the dean of Employees' State Insurance Company (ESIC) Hospital and Medical College, Hyderabad.

According to recent media reports, the possible names for the post of AIIMS Delhi Director are Dr. Nikhil Tandon, who is currently Professor and Head of the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at AIIMS Delhi.

AIIMS Delhi will have an acting Director for a few months until a permanent Director is appointed.

Also, the new Niti Aayog team includes senior economist Dr Ashok Lahiri as Vice Chairperson and eminent Scientist Dr Gobardhan Das as a Member.

NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Dr Ashok Lahiri is one of India's most experienced and senior Economists with a career over 4 decades. Dr Lahiri has served multiple important roles, from Chief Economic Adviser to Finance Commission Member, Asian Development Bank, World Bank and the IMF, reports ANI.

NITI Aayog Member Dr Gobardhan Das is a celebrated Molecular Science Professor, specialising in Immunology, Infectious Diseases and Cell Biology over a scientific career of nearly three decades.

''Dr Srinivas's appointment to NITI Aayog is a fitting recognition of his exceptional administrative acumen and unwavering dedication to public health. While we take great pride in this honour, his absence will truly be felt across every corner of this institution,'' said Dr Ajeet Singh, President, Officers Association, AIIMS New Delhi.

Alongside Dr Srinivas and Prof Karandikar, molecular scientist Gobardhan Das and economist K V Raju, a part-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, have also been appointed as full-time members.