Shaktimatha 369 Learning

 

UPSC / UPPSC Geography Optional

Paper–II (Indian Geography) – Page 14

Regional Planning & Regional Development in India

Shaktimatha 369 Learning

---

1. Introduction

Regional planning refers to the systematic and scientific approach to reduce regional disparities and ensure balanced development across different parts of a country. In India, regional planning has been a key objective since the Five-Year Plan era.

2. Need for Regional Planning in India

• Wide regional disparities in income and infrastructure
• Uneven industrial and urban growth
• Backwardness of tribal and hilly regions
• Pressure on developed regions due to migration

3. Nature of Regional Imbalances

• Inter-state disparities (developed vs backward states)
• Intra-state disparities (regional inequalities)
• Rural–urban divide
• Coastal–interior differences

4. Approaches to Regional Planning

A. Growth Pole Strategy

Development is concentrated at selected centres, from where growth spreads to surrounding areas.

B. Integrated Area Development

Focuses on comprehensive development of backward regions through coordinated sectoral planning.

C. Decentralised Planning

Empowers local institutions to plan and implement development programmes.

5. Major Regional Development Programmes

• Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP)
• Hill Area Development Programme
• Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF)
• Aspirational Districts Programme

6. Problems in Regional Planning

• Inadequate resource allocation
• Lack of coordination among agencies
• Administrative inefficiencies
• Political interference

7. Way Forward

• Strengthening local governance
• Targeted infrastructure development
• Skill development and employment generation
• Monitoring and evaluation of programmes

8. Answer Writing Strategy

• Begin with definition and need
• Use examples of Indian regions
• Link planning with inclusive growth
• Conclude with sustainable development goals

Golden Rule: Problem + planning approach + programme + solution = high marks

---

End of Geography Optional – Paper II | Page 14
Shaktimatha 369 Learning