Question

What do you understand by planning? Mention the objectives of the first Five-Year Plan.

Hint:

The First Five-Year Plan focused mainly on agriculture, irrigation, and rural development, as food security was the top priority after independence.

Answer 1

Meaning of Planning:
Planning refers to the process by which a government or organization sets economic and social goals for a specific period and decides how to achieve them. In India, planning was adopted after independence to promote rapid development, remove poverty, and ensure balanced economic growth. The Planning Commission, established in 1950, was responsible for formulating Five-Year Plans.
Objectives of the First Five-Year Plan (1951–1956):
1. Agricultural Development:
Since India faced a severe food shortage after independence, the plan focused on increasing food production and improving irrigation.
2. Control of Inflation:
Post-independence inflation was high due to war expenditure. The plan aimed at stabilizing prices through effective fiscal policies.
3. Improvement of Irrigation and Energy:
Large-scale investment was made in dams, canals, and multipurpose projects like the Bhakra-Nangal Dam to support agriculture and generate electricity.
4. Development of Transport:
Expansion of roads, railways, and communication networks to strengthen economic integration.
5. Rural Development and Community Projects:
The plan emphasized community development programs to improve education, health, housing, and rural welfare.
Conclusion:
The First Five-Year Plan was successful, achieving a growth rate of about 3.6\% against the target of 2.1\%. It laid the foundation for India’s planned economic development.