Q5(b). What are the goals and objectives of Planning in India? How far planning is relevant in the free market economy and era of economic globalization? What are the salient targets of 10th five-year plan ?

“Planning is the art of allocating limited resources for maximum social welfare.” – Planning Commission

Goals and Objectives of Planning in India

1. Economic Growth

Accelerate national income and per capita income.

2. Poverty Reduction and Employment Generation

Schemes like IRDP, NREGS and self-employment programmes.

3. Reduction of Inequalities

Regional balance, land reforms and inclusive development.

4. Self-reliance

Strengthening domestic industries, reducing import dependence.

5. Modernisation and Infrastructure

Development of power, transport, irrigation and social sectors.

6. Human Development

Education, health, nutrition, gender equality and social security.

Relevance of Planning in the Free Market and Globalised Economy

Even after liberalisation in 1991, planning remains relevant because:

• Markets alone cannot ensure equitable distribution or social justice.
• Long-term infrastructure and energy projects require coordinated planning.
• Globalisation increases vulnerability; strategic planning strengthens resilience.
• The NITI Aayog continues the spirit of planning through cooperative federalism and policy think-tanking.

Thus, planning has shifted from centralised allocation to strategic guidance and outcome-based governance.

Salient Targets of the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2002–2007)

1. GDP growth target of eight percent.
2. Reduction of poverty ratio by five percentage points.
3. Creation of fifty million employment opportunities.
4. Universal access to education by 2003 and reduction of gender gaps.
5. Reduction in IMR to forty five and MMR to two per thousand.
6. Clean drinking water and rural road connectivity for all villages.
7. Greater focus on agriculture and irrigation to reduce rural distress.