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Hyderabad Professor Joins NITI Aayog Advisory Committee

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ofessor-joins-niti-aayog-advisory-committee.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, January 20th 2026 at 5:36 GMT by Telangana Today
      Locale: INDIA

Hyderabad, India - January 20th, 2026 - Professor C. Raghava Reddy of the University of Hyderabad (UOH) has been appointed to the prestigious Public Policy Advisory Committee of NITI Aayog, India's premier national policy think tank. The announcement, made earlier today, marks a significant recognition of Professor Reddy's contributions to agricultural economics and rural development, and further highlights the growing influence of UOH faculty on national policy decisions.

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was established in 2014, replacing the Planning Commission. Its core function is to provide strategic policy inputs and to advise the government on matters of economic and social development. The Public Policy Advisory Committee, a key component of NITI Aayog's structure, brings together experts from various fields to provide informed recommendations to government policymakers. These recommendations cover a vast spectrum of issues, ranging from infrastructure development and healthcare to education and, crucially, agricultural reform.

Professor Reddy's appointment is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing challenges facing India's agricultural sector. While the country has made considerable strides in food production over the past decades, issues like farmer distress, climate change impacts on crop yields, and the need for sustainable agricultural practices remain pressing concerns. His expertise in agricultural economics is expected to be invaluable in shaping policy responses to these challenges.

"Professor Reddy's understanding of the intricacies of rural economies and agricultural production systems is unparalleled," stated Dr. Anya Sharma, a senior researcher at NITI Aayog. "His insights will be crucial as we work to develop strategies that ensure food security, improve farmer livelihoods, and promote a more resilient agricultural sector for India's future."

Professor Reddy's research at UOH has focused primarily on the economic impacts of agricultural policies on rural communities, with a strong emphasis on the role of technology and innovation in boosting productivity. His work has been cited in numerous government reports and has directly informed several state-level agricultural initiatives. He's known for a particularly nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by smallholder farmers and the importance of localized solutions tailored to specific regional contexts.

This appointment also reflects a broader trend of increased engagement between academic institutions and government bodies in India. The recognition of UOH faculty contributions to national policy-making signals a growing appreciation for the role of rigorous research and evidence-based analysis in shaping public policy. Universities, often perceived as being disconnected from the practical realities of governance, are increasingly being viewed as vital partners in addressing the nation's complex developmental challenges. UOH, in particular, has fostered a strong tradition of socially engaged research and has actively encouraged its faculty to participate in policy discussions. The university's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration also positions its researchers to offer holistic perspectives on complex issues.

Looking forward, Professor Reddy's role on the Public Policy Advisory Committee is expected to focus on several key areas. These include strengthening agricultural supply chains, promoting climate-resilient farming practices, and ensuring equitable access to resources and markets for smallholder farmers. He is also anticipated to contribute to discussions on the future of agricultural subsidies and the development of innovative financing mechanisms to support rural development initiatives. The committee's deliberations are closely watched by stakeholders across the agricultural sector, and Professor Reddy's insights are expected to play a significant role in shaping the policy landscape in the coming years.

The University of Hyderabad has expressed its pride in Professor Reddy's appointment. "This is a testament to the quality of research and teaching at UOH," said Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rajesh Kumar in a press release. "We are confident that Professor Reddy's expertise will be a valuable asset to NITI Aayog, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of his contributions on India's agricultural sector and rural communities."