Question

People's Planning implemented in Kerala is an example of

• A. Decentralized Planning
• B. Centralized Planning
• C. Strategic Planning
• D. None of these

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Decentralized Planning

• Background: The People's Plan Campaign (ജനകീയാസൂത്രണം) was launched in Kerala on August 17, 1996, during the Ninth Five-Year Plan.

• Core Concept: It is a landmark model of Decentralized Planning (bottom-up approach) where the planning process, decision-making, and fund allocation were devolved directly to Local Self-Government Institutions (Grama Panchayats, Block Panchayats, District Panchayats, and Municipalities).

  • Around 35–40% of the state's plan budget was directly devolved to local bodies.

  • Emphasized local participation through Grama Sabhas to identify community needs, draft plans, and execute development projects rather than relying on top-down state machinery.