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Question 2. Why did India opt for planning?
India opted for economic planning after independence to overcome the deep economic problems inherited from colonial rule and to ensure balanced and inclusive development.
At the time of independence, India was marked by widespread poverty, low per capita income, unemployment, agricultural stagnation, and industrial backwardness. The market forces alone were considered inadequate to address these challenges. Hence, a planned approach was seen as necessary.
One major reason was to ensure rapid economic development. Through planning, the government could systematically allocate scarce resources to priority sectors like agriculture, industry, education, and infrastructure.
Planning was also adopted to promote social justice and equity. India aimed to reduce inequalities of income and wealth and ensure that the benefits of growth reached all sections of society, not just a few.
Another important reason was to achieve self-reliance. After colonial exploitation, India wanted to reduce dependence on foreign countries for essential goods, capital, and technology.
Lastly, planning was necessary to define a clear role for the public sector. Large industries, infrastructure, and heavy investments required government intervention, which private enterprise alone could not provide.
Conclusion
Thus, India opted for planning to achieve growth, equity, self-reliance, and overall national development in a systematic and coordinated manner.