Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion (A) ...
Heavy Capital Requirement There was a need for a large amount of investment in infrastructure and heavy and basic industries for economic development Private sector in India at the eve of independence did not have the capacity to invest such a big amount. Private entrepreneurs were not prepared to bear the risks involved in these projects which had long gestation periods along with high capital investment. Thus, the government played the leading role to provide the basic framework of heavy industries and infrastructure through the public sector to facilitate the private sector.
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Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion (A) ...
Assertion (A): Public sector was given a leading role in industrialization during the period of planning.
Reason (R): Private sector did not have enough capital and the market was not so big to encourage industrialists to undertake big projects even if they had capital to do so.
Explanation:
Public Sector Leading Role in Industrialization:
During the period of planning in India, which started with the implementation of the Five-Year Plans in 1951, the public sector was given a leading role in industrialization. The government believed that a strong public sector presence was necessary to drive industrial growth and achieve rapid economic development.
Reasons for Public Sector Leading Role:
The reason behind giving the public sector a leading role in industrialization can be attributed to several factors, including:
1. Capital Constraints in the Private Sector: The private sector in India during that time did not have enough capital to undertake large-scale industrial projects. The lack of capital was a major constraint for private industrialists to invest in big projects and expand their operations.
2. Market Constraints: Additionally, the market size was not large enough to encourage private industrialists to undertake big projects even if they had the necessary capital. The limited market demand posed a risk for private investors, as they were unsure about the profitability and sustainability of their ventures.
3. Government Intervention: The government, recognizing the limitations of the private sector, decided to take the lead in industrialization by establishing public sector enterprises. These enterprises were funded and controlled by the government and played a crucial role in setting up key industries and infrastructure projects.
4. Economic Planning: The decision to give the public sector a leading role in industrialization was part of the broader economic planning process. The government believed that a planned approach with a strong public sector presence would ensure equitable growth, promote employment, and address the development needs of the country.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both the assertion and the reason are true. The public sector was indeed given a leading role in industrialization during the period of planning in India. The reason for this was the lack of capital in the private sector and the limited market size, which made it difficult for private industrialists to undertake big projects. The government intervention and the focus on economic planning further supported the decision to prioritize the public sector in industrial development. Therefore, option 'A' is the correct answer.
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