Consider the following statements regarding the role of institutions in the formulation and implementation of ‘Public Policy’ in India:
- The Cabinet Secretariat works directly under the leadership of the Prime Minister and is the main center of policy coordination.
- The 'Governing Council' of NITI Aayog has completely replaced the National Development Council.
- Private sector experts are involved in government policy formulation through 'Lateral Entry'.
- Parliamentary Standing Committees conduct detailed examinations of ministries' policies and expenditures.
Which of the above statements are correct?
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The Cabinet Secretariat works under the Prime Minister as the apex policy-coordination hub (1), lateral entry brings in private-sector experts (3), and parliamentary standing committees scrutinise ministries' policies and spending (4). Statement 2 is wrong because NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission, not the National Development Council, and its Governing Council hasn't formally abolished the NDC.