The government formalised the appointment through a notification issued by the Cabinet Secretariat on Saturday, which was personally approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Alongside Aniya, R. Balasubramaniam has also been named as a full-time member of the apex public policy institution.

Aniya is at present serving as the Head of the Department of Hindi at Dera Natung Government College in Itanagar. She brings over 18 years of experience spanning academia, research, and engagement with public policy. 

Grassroots-Driven Development

Her appointment in the NITI Aayog is expected to strengthen the institution’s perspective on cultural diversity, tribal welfare, and grassroots-driven development.

Aniya’s achievements are significant, particularly in the context of her community. Not only is she the first woman doctorate from the Nyishi tribe, but she is also the first from Arunachal Pradesh to have a PhD in Hindi. 

Her academic journey has been closely intertwined with efforts to document, preserve, and promote indigenous knowledge systems and cultural traditions.

An accomplished writer and scholar, she has authored and edited several works focusing on Nyishi literature, folklore, and cultural heritage. 

Inclusive Growth

Her research contributions have earned recognition for bridging the gap between regional traditions and mainstream academic discourse. Observers believe her background will add a valuable dimension to national discussions on inclusive growth and culturally sensitive policymaking.

Her entry into the government’s apex think tank comes shortly after the reconstitution of the NITI Aayog on April 24, as economist Ashok Kumar Lahiri was made Vice-Chairman of the institution, with K.V. Raju, M. Srinivas and former Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba joining the body as full-time members.

Welcoming the development, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, in a ‘X’ post, described the appointment as a proud moment for the state and the wider Northeast region. He lauded Aniya as an eminent academician, writer, and folklorist whose contributions to Hindi literature and Nyishi culture have been pioneering.

Highlighting her journey, Khandu noted that her accomplishment as the first Nyishi woman to earn a PhD in Hindi reflects deep dedication and a strong commitment to society. He also expressed confidence that her expertise in education, research, and grassroots engagement would contribute meaningfully to national policy formulation, particularly in advancing indigenous knowledge systems and inclusive development.

The Chief Minister conveyed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for recognising talent from the Northeast and entrusting Aniya with a key national responsibility.

Aniya’s elevation to NITI Aayog has been widely welcomed across Arunachal Pradesh, with many viewing it as a long overdue recognition of the region’s academic and cultural contributions at the highest levels of governance.