Planning in India — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

For Prelims, a strong grasp of factual details is essential. Start by creating a chronological timeline of all 12 Five-Year Plans, noting their exact periods, primary objectives, key models (Harrod-Domar, Mahalanobis), and significant achievements or failures.

Memorize the constitutional articles related to planning (39, 246, 263) and understand their implications. Crucially, master the differences between the Planning Commission and NITI Aayog – their establishment, structure, functions, and approach (top-down vs.

bottom-up, fund allocation vs. think tank). Pay attention to the reasons for the Planning Commission's dissolution and the core principles of NITI Aayog (cooperative federalism, competitive federalism).

Also, be aware of key concepts like Plan Holiday, Rolling Plan, Gadgil Formula, and the abolition of Plan vs. Non-Plan expenditure. Finally, keep track of NITI Aayog's recent reports, indices (SDG India Index, Innovation Index), and major initiatives, as these are frequent current affairs hooks.

Practice MCQs that test both static facts and conceptual understanding of the evolution.