Upto 60% Off on UPSC Online Courses

Avail Now

National Development Council of India (NDC) – Full Form, Role, Members, Establishment

Ananya Gupta September 04, 2023 04:56 13256 0

NDC full form is National Development Council, a pivotal institution in India's governance and development planning, fostering cooperative federalism and inclusive growth. Learn about its functions and role.

National Development Council of India (NDC) –  Full Form, Role, Members, Establishment

National Development Council

The National Development Council (NDC) is a term used in various countries to refer to a government body or organization responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing national development policies and strategies. Its specific role and functions can vary from one country to another, but the general purpose is to promote economic and social development on a national scale.

In some countries, the NDC may be responsible for setting long-term development goals, formulating policies, allocating resources, and monitoring progress toward achieving these goals. It often includes government officials, experts, and stakeholders from various sectors, such as economics, finance, education, health, and infrastructure.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

The exact structure and responsibilities of the NDC can differ widely, depending on the country’s political and administrative system. It’s a mechanism for strategic planning and collaboration to ensure a nation’s growth and prosperity.

NDC Full Form

The full form of NDC is National Development Council. National Development Council (NDC), also known as the Rashtriya Vikas Parishad in India, is a high-level advisory body in the Indian context. It was established by an executive resolution of the Government of India on August 6, 1952. The NDC’s primary role is to provide a platform for cooperative federalism and policy coordination between the central government and the state governments in India.

Key points about the National Development Council (NDC) in India include:

Advisory Role: The NDC serves as a forum for discussing and advising on matters related to economic and social development in India.

Composition: It typically includes the Prime Minister of India as its chairperson, along with Union Cabinet Ministers, members of NITI Aayog, representatives of Union Territories, and the Chief Ministers of all states in India. This composition allows for the participation of both the central and state governments.

Five-Year Plans: The NDC historically played a crucial role in the planning and implementation of India’s Five-Year Plans, which are comprehensive economic development blueprints for the country.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

Policy Coordination: It helps coordinate and align development policies and efforts across different regions and sectors to ensure balanced and equitable development.

Balancing Growth: The NDC aims to promote balanced development across all parts of the country, addressing regional disparities and focusing on inclusive growth.

Cooperative Federalism: It promotes the principles of cooperative federalism by fostering cooperation and collaboration between the central government and state governments to achieve national development goals.

Changes Over Time: The NDC’s role and significance have evolved over the years, and it has seen changes in its functions and activities, especially with the establishment of NITI Aayog in 2014.

NDC Full Form
Full Form  National Development Council (NDC)
Established August 6, 1952
Composition Prime Minister, Union Cabinet Ministers, Members of NITI Aayog,  Representatives of Union Territories, and  Chief Ministers of all states in India
Importance The NDC promotes cooperative federalism, ensures balanced development across regions, and fosters collaboration between the central and state governments in India’s development planning and policy formulation.

 

Enroll now for UPSC Online Coaching

History of National Development Council

The National Development Council (NDC) of India has a significant history closely intertwined with the nation’s development planning and governance. Here is a more detailed history of the NDC:

  1. Pre-Independence Planning: Prior to India’s independence in 1947, there were discussions and efforts to plan for the country’s development. The Planning Advisory Board, under the chairmanship of K.C. Neogi, had recommended the establishment of an organization that would include representatives from provincial states and provinces to participate in development planning.
  2. Post-Independence Planning: After gaining independence, India recognized the need for structured development planning to address the challenges of a diverse and rapidly growing nation. In 1951, the Indian government established the Planning Commission to formulate and oversee Five-Year Plans.
  3. Recommendation for NDC: During the drafting of India’s first Five-Year Plan, the Planning Commission recommended the creation of the National Development Council (NDC) as a means to facilitate the involvement of states in policy-making and implementation. This recommendation aimed to ensure a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to national development.
  4. Establishment of NDC: The NDC was officially established on August 6, 1952, through an executive resolution of the Government of India. It was created on the basis of the recommendation made in the context of the first Five-Year Plan.
  5. Cooperative Federalism: The NDC was designed to promote the concept of cooperative federalism, emphasizing collaboration and cooperation between the central government and state governments in shaping development policies and strategies. It provided a platform for dialogue and coordination.
  6. Five-Year Plans: The NDC played a pivotal role in overseeing the implementation of India’s Five-Year Plans, which outlined the country’s economic and social development priorities over specific timeframes.
  7. Evolution and Changes: Over time, the role and functions of the NDC evolved, responding to shifts in India’s development landscape and governance structure.
  8. Introduction of NITI Aayog: In 2014, the Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India). This transition marked a significant change in India’s approach to economic planning and development policy. NITI Aayog took on some of the responsibilities previously held by the Planning Commission and introduced new mechanisms for policy formulation.

Enroll now for Online Course

NDC Objectives

The National Development Council (NDC) of India has several objectives, which have evolved over the years to adapt to changing national priorities and development challenges. The primary objectives of the NDC include:

  1. Promoting Cooperative Federalism: One of the central objectives of the NDC is to promote cooperative federalism by fostering collaboration and partnership between the central government and state governments. It serves as a platform for dialogue and coordination to ensure that development policies and strategies take into account the needs and perspectives of different states and regions.
  2. Ensuring Balanced Development: The NDC aims to ensure balanced and equitable development across all parts of the country. It seeks to address regional disparities and promote inclusive growth by coordinating policies and initiatives that benefit all states and regions.
  3. Guiding Development Planning: Historically, the NDC played a key role in guiding the formulation and implementation of Five-Year Plans in India. While the structure of planning has evolved with the introduction of NITI Aayog, the NDC still provides important inputs and guidance for development planning.
  4. Policy Formulation: The NDC contributes to the formulation of development policies and strategies at the national level. It helps shape policies related to economic development, social welfare, infrastructure, and other critical areas.
  5. Resource Allocation: The NDC is involved in the allocation of resources, including financial resources, to different states and sectors based on development priorities outlined in national plans. This allocation process aims to ensure efficient resource utilization.
  6. Monitoring and Evaluation: The NDC is responsible for monitoring and evaluating the progress of development programs and projects. It assesses the impact of policies and initiatives and makes necessary adjustments to achieve development goals.
  7. Advisory Role: It serves as an advisory body to the government, providing recommendations and guidance on development-related matters. Its advice is based on its expertise in economic and social planning.
  8. Facilitating National-Level Decision-Making: The NDC facilitates national-level decision-making by bringing together key stakeholders, including the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers of states, and experts, to discuss and deliberate on critical issues affecting the country’s development.
  9. Adapting to Changing Needs: The objectives of the NDC have evolved over time to adapt to changing economic, social, and political circumstances. It continues to play a crucial role in shaping India’s development policies and strategies.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

What is the New Role of NDC?

The National Development Council (NDC) of India had experienced changes in its role and functions, particularly with the establishment of NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) in 2015. While the NDC historically played a central role in India’s development planning and policy coordination, its role had evolved with the introduction of NITI Aayog. Here’s an overview of the new role of the NDC:

1. Transformation with NITI Aayog:

  • In 2015, the Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog.
  • The NDC underwent a transformation and now operates as the Governing Council of NITI Aayog.

2. Platform for Cooperative Federalism:

  • The NDC now serves as a pivotal platform to promote cooperative federalism within India.

3. Key Participants:

  • The NDC convenes meetings involving:
    • The Prime Minister
    • Chief Ministers from all states and Union Territories
    • Other senior officials

Enroll now for UPSC Online Coaching

4. Functions of the NDC:

  • The NDC performs several crucial functions, including:
    • Identifying key policy priorities and development goals.
    • Monitoring and reviewing the progress of ongoing government schemes and programs.
    • Providing valuable guidance and recommendations on policy and development-related matters.

5. Ensuring Effective Implementation:

  • The NDC plays a pivotal role in ensuring the effective implementation of key government schemes and initiatives, thereby translating policies into tangible benefits for the populace.

6. Strengthening Federal Structure:

  • This new role of the NDC is regarded as a significant stride towards strengthening India’s federal structure.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

7. Promoting Collaboration:

  • The NDC fosters greater collaboration between the central government and state governments, enhancing synergy in the development process.

8. Inclusive and Participatory Approach:

  • By involving Chief Ministers from states and Union Territories, the NDC ensures a more inclusive and participatory approach to national development, acknowledging the diverse regional perspectives and needs.

Composition of NDC

The National Development Council (NDC) of India typically includes a composition of key government officials and representatives from different levels of government. As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the composition of the NDC is as follows:

  1. Chairperson: The Prime Minister of India serves as the Chairperson of the NDC. The Prime Minister plays a central role in guiding discussions and decision-making during NDC meetings.
  2. Union Cabinet Ministers: Several Union Cabinet Ministers, who are members of the central government’s cabinet, are part of the NDC. These ministers represent various portfolios, such as finance, agriculture, health, and education.
  3. Members of NITI Aayog: NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is a key government think tank and policy advisory body. The Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog and other members of NITI Aayog are part of the NDC.
  4. Representatives of Union Territories: The NDC may include representatives from Union Territories, who represent the interests and perspectives of these regions.
  5. Chief Ministers of States: One of the critical components of the NDC is the participation of Chief Ministers of all states in India. Each Chief Minister represents their respective state and contributes to the discussions on development policies and planning.
  6. Special Invitees: Occasionally, the NDC meetings may also include special invitees, experts, or individuals with relevant insights or expertise.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

National Development Council Functions

The National Development Council (NDC) of India performs several key functions and responsibilities in the country’s governance and development planning process. These functions have evolved over the years but traditionally include the following:

  1. Policy Formulation: The NDC contributes to the formulation of national development policies and strategies. It reviews and discusses policy proposals related to economic development, social welfare, infrastructure, and other critical areas. The NDC’s recommendations help shape government policies.
  2. Development Planning: Historically, the NDC played a pivotal role in guiding the formulation and implementation of Five-Year Plans in India. Although the structure of planning has evolved with the establishment of NITI Aayog, the NDC continues to provide important inputs and guidance for development planning.
  3. Resource Allocation: The NDC is involved in resource allocation, including the allocation of financial resources to states and sectors. It ensures that resources are allocated based on development priorities outlined in national plans, aiming for equitable and efficient resource utilization.
  4. Monitoring and Evaluation: The NDC monitors and evaluates the progress of development programs and projects. It assesses the impact of policies and initiatives and recommends adjustments to achieve development goals.
  5. Cooperative Federalism: Promoting cooperative federalism is a fundamental function of the NDC. It fosters collaboration and partnership between the central government and state governments, ensuring that development policies and strategies are inclusive and consider the diverse needs of different states and regions.
  6. Balanced Development: The NDC works to ensure balanced and equitable development across all parts of the country. It aims to address regional disparities and promote inclusive growth by coordinating policies and initiatives that benefit all states and regions.
  7. Advisory Role: The NDC serves as an advisory body to the government, offering recommendations and guidance on development-related matters. Its advice is based on its expertise in economic and social planning.
  8. Facilitating National-Level Decision-Making: The NDC facilitates national-level decision-making by bringing together key stakeholders, including the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers of states, and experts, to discuss and deliberate on critical issues affecting the country’s development.
  9. Adapting to Changing Needs: The NDC’s role and functions have adapted to changing economic, social, and political circumstances. While the establishment of NITI Aayog introduced new mechanisms for policy formulation and coordination, the NDC continues to be an important institution in India’s governance and development landscape.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Coaching

National Development Council and NITI Aayog

The National Development Council (NDC) and NITI Aayog are both significant institutions in India, but they serve different roles in the country’s governance and development planning. Here’s a comparison of the two:

National Development Council (NDC):

  1. Establishment: The NDC was established in 1952, following the recommendation of the Planning Commission’s first Five-Year Plan. It predates NITI Aayog and has a longer history in India’s development planning.
  2. Composition: The NDC typically includes the Prime Minister, Union Cabinet Ministers, members of NITI Aayog, representatives of Union Territories, and the Chief Ministers of all states in India. This composition ensures representation from the central government, state governments, and Union Territories.
  3. Role: Historically, the NDC played a crucial role in guiding the formulation and implementation of India’s Five-Year Plans. It focused on development planning, policy coordination, and resource allocation. However, with the establishment of NITI Aayog, its role has evolved.
  4. Cooperative Federalism: Promoting cooperative federalism has been a core function of the NDC. It fosters collaboration and partnership between the central government and state governments in development planning and policy coordination.

Enroll now for Online Course

NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India):

  1. Establishment: NITI Aayog was established in 2015, replacing the Planning Commission. It represents a more recent approach to development planning and governance.
  2. Composition: NITI Aayog includes the Prime Minister as its Chairperson, along with Vice Chairman, CEO, and a team of experts. It also has a Governing Council comprising Chief Ministers of states and Union Territories.
  3. Role: NITI Aayog serves as a policy think tank and advisory body to the government. Its role is broader than that of the Planning Commission. It focuses on formulating long-term strategic policies and plans for the country’s economic and social development.
  4. Flexibility and Innovation: NITI Aayog has introduced a more flexible and innovative approach to development planning. It emphasizes state-specific and region-specific planning, encourages competition among states, and promotes innovation in governance.
  5. Decentralization: NITI Aayog encourages greater decentralization of power and decision-making, allowing states more autonomy in shaping their development agendas. It supports initiatives like “cooperative federalism” and “competitive federalism.”

National Development Council has historically played a central role in India’s development planning and policy coordination. However, with the establishment of NITI Aayog, the focus has shifted toward a more flexible, decentralized, and innovative approach to development planning and governance. While both institutions have overlapping functions related to cooperative federalism, they operate in different contexts and have different areas of emphasis.

Enroll now for UPSC Classes

National Development Council for UPSC Exam

The National Development Council (NDC) holds a significant place in the field of Political Science, particularly for the General Studies Paper 2 in the UPSC mains exam. Questions related to the NDC can also appear in the Prelims exam. To thoroughly prepare for this topic and gain a comprehensive understanding of constitutional and non-constitutional bodies within the Indian Constitution, it is advisable to refer to relevant study materials such as the NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) books designed for the UPSC exam or specialized Indian Polity books. These resources provide valuable insights into the functioning, significance, and historical evolution of bodies like the NDC, as well as the broader constitutional framework of India. A well-rounded knowledge of these subjects is essential for success in the UPSC examination.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

National Development Council of India FAQs

The National Development Council (NDC) is a crucial institution in India that plays a significant role in cooperative federalism, development planning, and policy formulation.

The NDC was established on August 6, 1952, based on the recommendations of the first Five-Year Plan drafted by the Planning Commission.

The NDC's functions include identifying policy priorities, monitoring ongoing development schemes, providing guidance, and fostering cooperative federalism.

The NDC typically includes the Prime Minister, Union Cabinet Ministers, members of NITI Aayog, representatives of Union Territories, and the Chief Ministers of all states in India.

NITI Aayog is a successor to the Planning Commission and has a more central role in policy formulation. The NDC serves as the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, offering guidance and coordination.
/*
*/

Archive Calendar

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
 1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
3031  

by month

Need help preparing for UPSC or State PSCs?

Connect with our experts to get free counselling & start preparing

 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

THE MOST
LEARNING PLATFORM

Learn From India's Best Faculty

      

 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

Quick Revise Now !
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

<div class="new-fform">







    </div>

    Subscribe our Newsletter
    Sign up now for our exclusive newsletter and be the first to know about our latest Initiatives, Quality Content, and much more.
    *Promise! We won't spam you.
    Yes! I want to Subscribe.