Which of the following are associated with ‘Planning’ in India?

1. The Finance Commission
2. The National Development Council
3. The Union Ministry of Rural Development
4. The Union Ministry of Urban Development
5. The Parliament

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1, 2 and 5 only
2. 1, 3 and 4 only
3. 2 and 5 only
4. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Explanation

Option (c) is correct

• Finance Commission: The Finance Commission deals with the distribution of financial resources between the Union and States, but is not directly involved in the planning process.
• National Development Council (NDC): The NDC was a key body for planning in India before the Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog. It was responsible for endorsing Five-Year Plans and facilitating cooperative federalism in planning.
• Union Ministry of Rural Development: While it plays a role in implementing rural development programs, it is not directly associated with national-level planning.
• Union Ministry of Urban Development: Similar to the Rural Development Ministry, it is involved in urban development programs but not directly in the planning process.
• Parliament: The Parliament plays an important role in planning by approving budgets and plans for national development programs.

Answer: (c) 2 and 5 only; Difficulty Level: Medium