All questions of Planning in India for SSC CGL Exam

The main long-term objective of Indian planning in terms of economic growth was achieving a 6 percent growth in national income.

Final Approval of Five-Year Plans in India
The five-year plans in India are an essential aspect of the country's economic planning and development strategy. The final approval of these plans is a crucial step in the planning process.
Role of National Development Council (NDC)
- The National Development Council (NDC) plays a pivotal role in the approval of five-year plans in India.
- It is a body consisting of the Prime Minister, Union Cabinet Ministers, Chief Ministers of States, and other members.
- The NDC is responsible for formulating and overseeing the implementation of the five-year plans.
Key Responsibilities of NDC
- Approval of Plans: The NDC reviews and approves the five-year plans prepared by the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog).
- Policy Guidance: It provides guidance on policy matters related to economic planning and development.
- Coordination: The NDC ensures coordination between the central and state governments regarding developmental strategies.
Other Bodies' Roles
- The Ministry of Finance plays a crucial role in budgetary allocations but does not approve the plans.
- The Planning Commission, which has been replaced by NITI Aayog, was responsible for drafting the plans but required NDC's approval.
- The President of India’s role is more of a ceremonial endorsement rather than an active approval authority.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct answer to who gives the final approval to the five-year plans in India is option 'A', the National Development Council. The NDC's collaborative approach ensures that both central and state interests are considered, leading to more effective planning and implementation of developmental initiatives.

The economic depression of 1930 led to the popularity of the concept of planning.

Understanding Economic Planning in India
Economic planning in India is primarily situated within the realm of the Concurrent List, which is crucial for both the central and state governments in formulating development strategies.
What is the Concurrent List?
- The Concurrent List is one of the three lists in the Constitution of India that outlines the subjects on which both the Centre and the States can legislate.
- This allows for a coordinated approach to governance, enabling both levels of government to collaborate on economic policies and planning.
Importance of Economic Planning
- Economic planning involves the allocation of resources to achieve a balanced economic development.
- It plays a significant role in addressing issues like poverty, employment, and industrial growth.
Role of Central and State Governments
- The Central Government formulates national economic policies, while State Governments implement them according to local needs and conditions.
- This dual approach ensures that economic planning is responsive to diverse regional challenges.
Examples of Economic Planning
- Schemes like the Five-Year Plans, which aim to set out the country's economic goals and the means to achieve them.
- The National Development Council (NDC) is involved in assessing the progress of economic planning at various levels.
Conclusion
- By being part of the Concurrent List, economic planning allows for flexibility and cooperation between the Centre and States.
- This framework supports sustained economic growth and development in India, making it a vital component of the nation's governance.

The weaknesses of the free market-based economy of capitalism included mass unemployment, poverty, and inequalities of income.

Overview of the Planning Commission of India
The Planning Commission of India was established in 1950, with the primary objective of formulating and overseeing the implementation of the Five-Year Plans aimed at socio-economic development. It played a crucial role in shaping India’s economic policies until it was dissolved in 2015.
Montek Singh Ahluwalia's Role
- Position: Montek Singh Ahluwalia served as the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission from 2004 to 2014.
- Background: He was an eminent economist and played a significant role in India’s economic reforms in the 1990s. His expertise and leadership during his tenure were instrumental in guiding the Planning Commission through a transformative period.
- Contributions: Under his guidance, the Planning Commission focused on inclusive growth, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development. He was known for advocating reforms that balanced economic growth with social welfare.
Other Options Explained
- K.C. Pant: Served as Deputy Chairman before Ahluwalia, but his tenure was from 1991 to 1996.
- Pranab Mukherjee: A distinguished politician and former President of India, he was not associated with the role of Deputy Chairman at any point.
- Madhu Dandavate: An important political figure, he was also not the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission.
Conclusion
Montek Singh Ahluwalia is recognized for his impactful leadership and contributions to India's economic strategy while serving as the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. His tenure is often considered a pivotal time for economic policy formulation in India. Thus, the correct answer to the question is option 'A'.

The dimensions of Indian planning include economic growth, self-reliance, reduction of unemployment, income inequalities, elimination of poverty, and modernization.

Introduction to the First Five-Year Plan
The First Five-Year Plan was a significant economic initiative in India, aimed at fostering rapid economic growth and development post-independence. Launched in 1951, it marked the beginning of planned economic development in the country.
Key Objectives
- Agricultural Development: The plan focused on increasing agricultural production to ensure food security.
- Industrial Growth: It aimed to promote industrialization, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and infrastructure.
- Employment Generation: By investing in various sectors, the plan sought to create job opportunities for the growing population.
Timeline and Context
- Launch Year: The First Five-Year Plan officially commenced in April 1951, making option 'D' the correct answer.
- Predecessors: Prior to this, discussions about economic planning began around 1949, but no formal plans were implemented until 1951.
- Planning Commission: The establishment of the Planning Commission in 1950 was pivotal in formulating and implementing these plans.
Outcomes and Impact
- Economic Growth: The First Five-Year Plan led to a 3.6% growth rate, which was a significant achievement for a newly independent nation.
- Foundation for Future Plans: The experiences and lessons learned during this initial plan laid the groundwork for subsequent five-year plans, shaping India's economic trajectory.
In summary, the First Five-Year Plan, launched in 1951, was instrumental in setting the direction for India's economic development, focusing on agriculture, industry, and employment generation.

Self-reliance in the context of planning in India means reducing dependence on foreign countries to increase resilience and reduce vulnerability to international pressures.

The Planning Commission of India was constituted in the year 1950.

Background:
The Planning Commission was set up by a Resolution of the Government of India in March 1950. It was an important body responsible for formulating India's Five-Year Plans and overseeing their implementation.

Functions:
1. Formulating Five-Year Plans: The Planning Commission was responsible for formulating comprehensive Five-Year Plans for the economic development of India.
2. Allocating Resources: It allocated resources to various government departments and agencies to ensure the effective implementation of the plans.
3. Monitoring Progress: The Commission monitored the progress of various projects and programs under the Five-Year Plans and made necessary adjustments.
4. Coordinating Policies: It coordinated the economic policies of different ministries and departments to achieve the overall objectives of the plans.
5. Advising the Government: The Planning Commission provided expert advice to the government on various economic and developmental issues.

Abolition:
The Planning Commission was abolished by the government in 2014 and replaced by the NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India). The decision to abolish the Planning Commission was taken to give more flexibility to states and promote cooperative federalism.

In conclusion, the Planning Commission of India was established in 1950 to plan and oversee the economic development of the country through Five-Year Plans. It played a crucial role in shaping India's economic policies and priorities for several decades before being replaced by NITI Aayog.