Program Objectives and Background
This section delves into the concept of planning as evolving from traditional methods to more structured approaches aimed at managing India's economic development. It starts by defining planning as a systematic process involving scheme formulation and action implementation to achieve specific goals, particularly in economic development.
On January 1, 2015, NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission, marking a significant shift towards decentralized, multi-level planning in India that enhances states' participation in economic policymaking. NITI Aayog aims to provide strategic and technical support to both Central and State governments, focusing on economic policies and sustainable development practices.
Two main approaches to planning are discussed: sectoral planning, which focuses on specific economic sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, and regional planning, which addresses geographical disparities in development.
The text emphasizes the importance of integrating spatial perspectives to reduce regional imbalances and highlight the necessity for targeted approaches in sectors that require development. Several programs aimed at economically backward areas, such as the Drought Prone Area Programme and the Hill Area Development Programme, illustrate the proactive measures taken to stimulate growth in such regions and balance ecological considerations.