What was the primary objective of the Planning Commission when it was established?

• A. Centralize power
• B. Monitor foreign relations
• C. Design policies for economic development
• D. Promote education

Answer: (C)

The primary objective of the Planning Commission, established in India in 1950, was to design policies for economic development. The commission aimed to assess the economic challenges facing the nation and plan strategies to enhance economic growth, address poverty, and promote equitable distribution of resources among different regions and communities. By focusing on systematic planning, the commission sought to coordinate various sectors of the economy, determining priorities for resource allocation and development initiatives, which were essential for building a self-reliant nation.

The emphasis on economic development reflects the Commission's role in shaping India's Five-Year Plans, which laid the foundation for targeted growth in agriculture, industry, and services. Through these plans, the Commission played a pivotal role in transforming India's economic landscape, directing investments towards infrastructure, health, education, and rural development, thereby aligning with the broader goals of national development and improvement in living standards.