Question

Analyse the need of ‘target area planning’ for development.

Answer 1

• Target area planning is necessary to address regional imbalances, which limit national growth. Some regions suffer issues such as drought, low agricultural output, and inadequate infrastructure.
• The government implemented several programs to address this issue, including the Command Area Development Programme, Drought Prone Area Development Programme, Desert Development Programme, and Hill Area Development Programme. Schemes such as Small Farmers Development Agency (SFDA) and Marginal Farmers Development Agency (MEDA) help communities in need.
• During the 8th Five Year Plan, infrastructure improvement programs were started for hill areas, tribal regions, and northern states. Target area planning promotes balanced growth, economic inclusion, and improved living standards in neglected regions.