Explanation:

The Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR), 1956 was a policy document adopted by the Government of India to guide industrial development in the country. It outlined the objectives and strategies for promoting industrial growth, encouraging public sector enterprises, and regulating the private sector through licensing. However, it did not specifically focus on promoting only small scale industries. Let's discuss each option in detail:

a) Promoting only small scale industries:
This option is incorrect because the IPR, 1956 did not solely focus on promoting small scale industries. While it recognized the importance of small-scale industries in the overall industrial development of the country, it also emphasized the need for the growth of large-scale industries. The policy aimed at achieving a balanced and integrated industrial structure, with both small and large industries playing a complementary role.

b) Promoting public sector enterprises:
This option is correct. The IPR, 1956 emphasized the promotion and development of public sector enterprises. It recognized the role of the state in creating a socialistic pattern of society and saw public sector enterprises as a means to achieve this objective. The policy aimed at establishing a public sector that would be the dominant and leading sector of the economy.

c) Promoting industries in the backward region:
This option is correct. The IPR, 1956 highlighted the importance of promoting industries in backward regions. It recognized the regional imbalances in industrial development and aimed at reducing these disparities. The policy encouraged the setting up of industries in economically backward areas to promote their development and create employment opportunities.

d) Private sector was kept under control through licensing:
This option is correct. The IPR, 1956 sought to regulate the private sector through licensing. The policy required industrial entrepreneurs to obtain licenses for setting up new industries or expanding existing ones. This was done to control the private sector's activities, ensure planned development, and prevent the concentration of economic power in a few hands.

In conclusion, the characteristic of the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR), 1956 that is not mentioned in the question is the promotion of only small scale industries (option A). The IPR, 1956 aimed at promoting both small and large-scale industries, encouraging public sector enterprises, promoting industries in backward regions, and regulating the private sector through licensing.