Question

Discuss the hierarchy of planning regions.

Answer 1

Planning regions are categorized into a hierarchy based on their scale and purpose in planning activities. The hierarchy includes three levels:

• Micro-regions: The smallest planning regions can create large production cycle specialties. A micro-region is defined as an area with high potential for developing and producing a specific area of expertise. Microregions include agriculture in Punjab, hydroelectric power in Himachal Pradesh, and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Micro-regions are the lowest level of the planning region hierarchy.
• Meso-regions: Meso-regions are mid-level planning regions comprising several micro-regions. To form meso-regions, micro-regions must share a common environmental backdrop, challenges, prospects, or socio-cultural ties. Meso-regions are multipurpose, unlike micro-regions. The Damodar Valley Basin is a typical meso-region. It includes three microregions: coal mining, forest, and arable land.
• Macro-regions: Macro-regions are vast areas with diverse natural resources that can support a high quality of life and sustain a self-sustaining economy. These regions are the largest in the three-tier planning system. Each combines several meso-regions based on their socio-economic ties. South Peninsular Region is a macro-region.