Development Planning Model
Introduction
The Development Planning Model refers to a
framework that guides a government in achieving
economic, social, and political progress. It helps in
setting goals, using resources efficiently, and improving
the overall well-being of citizens.
In simple terms, it is the method by which
governments plan to make the country better and more
developed.
What is Development?
• Development means more than just income growth.
• It includes:
o Better education and healthcare
o Equal opportunities
o Political freedom
o Environmental protection
• Famous economist Amartya Sen defined
development as "freedom to live the life one
values."
What is Planning?
Planning means setting up a clear roadmap with steps
to achieve national goals. It ensures:
• Proper use of resources
• Reduction of poverty and inequality
• Long-term economic and social stability
Types of Development Planning Models
Here are the main models used in development
planning:
Centralized Planning Model
• Planning is done by the central government.
• One agency (like Planning Commission in India)
controls all national plans.
• Resources and goals are decided from the top.
Example: India's Five-Year Plans (1951–2017)
Decentralized Planning Model
• Planning is done at the local or regional level (like
village or district).
• Focus on participatory development—people are
involved in decision-making.
• Supports Panchayati Raj system.
Example: Kerala’s People’s Planning Campaign
Indicative Planning
• Common in capitalist or mixed economies.
• Government only gives broad guidelines, not strict
rules.
• The private sector and market forces work freely
within those guidelines.
Example: France after World War II
Perspective Planning
• Long-term plans, usually for 15–20 years.
• Set overall vision for the future (e.g., “Developed
India by 2047”).
• Helps in guiding Five-Year or Annual Plans.
Rolling Plans
• Plans are updated year by year.
• Allows flexibility to change goals and strategies as
needed.
Example: Introduced in India by Janata Government
in 1978
Flowchart: Development Planning Model
National Goals
↓
Planning Authority (Central or Local)
↓
Selection of Model (Centralized,
Decentralized, etc.)
↓
Resource Allocation & Implementation
↓
Monitoring & Evaluation
↓
Development Outcomes (Social +
Economic)
India’s Experience with Development Planning
• India adopted a Mixed Economy Model.
• Set up Planning Commission (1950) → Replaced
by NITI Aayog (2015).
• Five-Year Plans were key tools to reduce poverty,
increase literacy, build industries, etc.
• Now focus is more on:
o Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
o Inclusive and Green Growth
o Aspirational Districts Programme
Role of NITI Aayog
• Acts as a think tank for the government.
• Promotes cooperative federalism (centre + states
work together).
• Encourages evidence-based policy planning.
• Supports bottom-up approach (local level
planning).
Conclusion
The Development Planning Model is essential to
ensure balanced growth, reduce inequality, and
improve living standards. Whether through centralized
plans or participatory grassroots planning, the model
chosen must suit the country’s needs and resources.
India’s experience shows that adaptive, people-
centered planning works best in a diverse and
democratic society.
Quote for Exams:
“Planning is bringing the future into the present so that
you can do something about it now.” – Alan Lakein
Would you like this converted into a 1-page quick
revision sheet, handwritten-style flowchart, or
MCQs for practice?