<span style="color: #222222;">United Nations Development Programme India has lauded the Aspirational Districts Programme as a very successful model of local area development. It said, this programme should serve as a best practice for several other countries where regional disparities in development status persist for many reasons. It was stated in an independent appraisal report released today.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The report was handed over today by UNDP India Resident Representative Shoko Noda to Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar and CEO Amitabh Kant. It captures the progress of the Aspirational Districts Programme and makes recommendations for further improvements.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">UNDP's analysis found that the programme has acted as a catalyst for expediting development in these districts. According to the report, the districts have also admitted that the continued focus of the programme on health and nutrition has helped them in tackling the COVID crisis with greater resilience. The report also acknowledged the commitment shown by the topmost political leadership of the country including Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards the programme. The Aspirational Districts Programme was launched by the Prime Minister in January 2018 as a part of the Government's effort to raise the living standards of its citizens and ensure inclusive growth for all.</span><br />''  <br />