Who among the following constitute the National Development Council?

1. The Prime Minister
2. The Chairman, Finance Commission
3. Ministers of the Union Cabinet
4. Chief Ministers of the States

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• The National Development Council (NDC) was set up in 1952 under the aegis of the erstwhile Planning Commission, to prescribe guidelines for the formulation of the National Plan.
• The NDC is composed of the following members:
  • The Prime Minister of India (as its chairman/head).
  • Union Cabinet Ministers.
  • The Chief Ministers of all the states.
  • The Chief Ministers/administrators of all union territories.
  • Members of the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog).
• The secretary of the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog) acts as the secretary to the NDC.
• Note: Although the NDC was proposed to be abolished, it has not been formally dissolved; however, most of its functions have effectively been taken over by the Governing Council of the NITI Aayog.

Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only; Difficulty Level: Medium