6.5.4 - Measures for Promotion of Sustainable Development
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Introduction to NITI Aayog and Decentralized Planning
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Today, we're going to talk about how India’s planning system changed with the establishment of NITI Aayog. Can anyone tell me what NITI Aayog aims to achieve?

Does it aim to involve the states more in policy-making?

Exactly! NITI Aayog focuses on decentralized planning, which allows states to contribute to economic policies. This inclusiveness is vital for sustainable development.

Why is decentralized planning necessary?

Good question! Decentralized planning helps cater to specific regional needs, addressing disparities in development. Think about how different regions have unique challenges.

Can you give an example of a program that helps with this?

Certainly! The Drought Prone Area Programme is an example that targets drought-affected regions and focuses on sustainable agricultural practices.

So, it’s about making plans that fit local conditions and improve lives?

Exactly, and planning should always aim for ecological balance! Let’s summarize: NITI Aayog promotes decentralized planning to address local needs.
Sectoral vs. Regional Planning
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Now, let’s dive deeper into the types of planning: sectoral and regional planning. Can someone explain what sectoral planning focuses on?

Is it about developing specific sectors like agriculture or manufacturing?

Right! Sectoral planning aims for targeted improvement in different sectors. Conversely, what do you think regional planning focuses on, Student_2?

I think it's about addressing issues in specific geographical areas.

Exactly! Regional planning considers the unique requirements of different areas, particularly to reduce economic imbalances. Can someone provide an example of regional planning?

The Integrated Tribal Development Project is a good example, focusing on tribal areas.

Great observation! Summary: sectoral planning targets specific sectors, while regional planning aims to assess and enhance the development within specific areas.
Drought Prone Area Programme
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Let’s now discuss the Drought Prone Area Programme. What do you think are the main objectives of this program?

Isn’t it meant to create jobs and improve land productivity in drought areas?

Absolutely! The program provides employment and focuses on developing productive assets in areas that struggle with drought. How does it address these objectives, Student_1?

Through irrigation projects and infrastructure development, right?

Correct! Additionally, it restores ecological balance by promoting sustainable practices. Let's recap the key points: it aims to enhance productivity and provide jobs in drought-affected areas.
Integrated Tribal Development Project
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Next, let’s understand the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP). What do we know about its purpose, Student_2?

It's aimed at improving the quality of life for tribal communities.

Exactly! ITDP focuses on empowering tribal populations through education, health services, and economic development. Can you think of how education helps in this context?

Better education can lead to more job opportunities and improved living standards.

Yes! It creates pathways for sustainable development by improving literacy and health. Summary of ITDP: it aims at enhancing quality of life for tribal communities through multi-faceted development strategies.
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
The section explores India's shift from centralized to decentralized planning with the establishment of NITI Aayog, focusing on regional and sectoral planning to address economic disparities, especially in backward areas. It highlights programs such as the Drought Prone Area Programme and Integrated Tribal Development Projects aimed at promoting sustainable practices and enhancing economic development.
Detailed
Detailed Summary
This section addresses the transformation in planning measures in India, particularly after the establishment of NITI Aayog on January 1, 2015, that replaced the Planning Commission. NITI Aayog's focus is on decentralized planning, allowing states to participate actively in economic policy formulation, which is essential for sustainable development.
The section delineates two primary approaches to planning:
1. Sectoral Planning: Focuses on enhancing specific sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
2. Regional Planning: Addresses economic disparities across different regions, aiming to ensure balanced development.
Key programs are introduced, such as the Drought Prone Area Programme, initiated to enhance productive assets in drought-affected areas through various measures like irrigation and infrastructure development. Additionally, the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) aims to uplift tribal regions by improving conditions through education, healthcare, and agriculture strategies.
The section reinforces the importance of sustainable practices in development initiatives to restore ecological balance while promoting socio-economic growth.
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Importance of Ecological Sustainability
Chapter 1 of 4
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Chapter Content
The ecological sustainability of Indira Gandhi Canal Project has been questioned by various scholars. Their point of view has also largely been validated by the course of development this region has taken during the last four decades, which has resulted in degradation of physical environment.
Detailed Explanation
Ecological sustainability refers to the ability to maintain healthy ecosystems and biodiversity while ensuring that development is feasible. The scholars highlight that the Indira Gandhi Canal Project, while vital for irrigation and agriculture, has led to negative environmental impacts over time. This degradation suggests that sustainable practices were not adequately considered or implemented during the planning and construction phases of the canal project.
Examples & Analogies
Think of an aquarium. If you add too many fish without ensuring a good filter and sufficient resources, the water quality degrades, harming the fish. Similarly, the canal project neglected some ecological considerations, leading to environmental degradation.
Measures for Sustainable Development
Chapter 2 of 4
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Chapter Content
Hence, five of the seven measures proposed to promote sustainable development in the command area are meant to restore ecological balance.
(i) The first requirement is strict implementation of water management policy. The canal project envisages protective irrigation in Stage-I and extensive irrigation of crops and pasture development in Stage-II.
(ii) In general, the cropping pattern shall not include water intensive crops. It shall be adhered to and people shall be encouraged to grow plantation crops such as citrus fruits.
Detailed Explanation
The measures suggested focus on balancing agricultural needs with environmental protection. These include managing water resources effectively to prevent wastage and reducing the cultivation of water-intensive crops, which can deplete water resources faster than they can be replenished. Instead, farmers are encouraged to plant crops that require less water and can thrive in the local climate, such as citrus fruits.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine watering a garden. If you use a hose without control, you can waste a lot of water. Now, if you use a watering can instead, it's more precise. This is akin to water management in agriculture, where mindful use can conserve resources.
Reclamation of Affected Areas
Chapter 3 of 4
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Chapter Content
(iii) The areas affected by water logging and soil salinity shall be reclaimed.
(iv) The eco-development through afforestation, shelterbelt plantation and pasture development is necessary particularly in the fragile environment of Stage-II.
Detailed Explanation
Waterlogging and soil salinity can severely damage land productivity. Reclamation efforts involve restoring the health of this land so that it can be useful for agriculture again. Additionally, afforestation involves planting trees to improve ecosystem health and prevent erosion, while shelterbelts (rows of trees) can protect agricultural areas from harsh winds. This helps create a more balanced environment which can sustain agriculture long-term.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a sponge that has been soaked in water until it can't absorb any more. After letting it dry out, it can soak up water again. Similarly, reclaiming affected areas helps restore the land's ability to support crops once more.
Socio-Economic and Economic Sustainability
Chapter 4 of 4
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Chapter Content
(v) The social sustainability in the region can be achieved only if the land allottees having poor economic background are provided adequate financial and institutional support for cultivation of land.
(vi) The economic sustainability in the region cannot be attained only through development of agriculture and animal husbandry. The agricultural and allied activities have to develop along with other sectors of economy. This shall lead to diversification of economic base and establishment of functional linkages between basic villages, agro-service centres and market centres.
Detailed Explanation
Social sustainability ensures that all members of the community, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have access to resources and support needed for agriculture. This includes financial aid and training programs. Economic sustainability goes beyond just farming; it involves developing various sectors to create a well-rounded and resilient economy that can support communities even in challenging times.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a team sport. Just having one star player doesn't guarantee a win. The entire team needs to work together effectively. Similarly, a community needs to build various skills and sectors to be successful long-term, not just rely on agriculture.
Key Concepts
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Sustainable Development: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
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Decentralized Planning: A planning strategy that involves local entities in decision-making processes.
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Economic Disparities: Differences in economic development across different regions or sectors.
Examples & Applications
The Drought Prone Area Programme reestablishes productive agricultural systems in regions frequently affected by water scarcity.
NITI Aayog has facilitated the planning and implementation of state-specific development projects, promoting localized and effective policies.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
To grow and sustain, our world we care, NITI Aayog leads, in resources we share.
Memory Tools
Imagine a farmer in a drought-prone area finding hope through irrigation techniques taught by the Drought Prone Area Programme, transforming barren land into a field of crops.
Memory Tools
Remember: NITI = New Ideas to Transform India.
Acronyms
ITDP = Improve Tribal Development Program, focusing on health, education, and economic growth.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- NITI Aayog
A policy think tank of the Government of India established to promote decentralized planning and sustainable development.
- Sectoral Planning
Planning focused on the development of specific sectors of the economy.
- Regional Planning
Planning that addresses the economic disparities in geographical regions.
- Drought Prone Area Programme
A program aimed at developing productive assets and improving living conditions in areas affected by drought.
- Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP)
An initiative aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities through various development programs.
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