NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

The National Development Council (NDC) in India is a statutory body that serves as a forum for deliberating on development matters and coordinating efforts between the central and state governments.

1. Background:
   • The National Development Council was established in 1952 under Article 263 of the Indian Constitution.
   • It was created to ensure cooperative and coordinated efforts between the central and state governments in matters of economic and social development.
   • The NDC provides a platform for discussing and formulating policies and programs for national development.
2. Composition:
   • The National Development Council is chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
   • Its members include:
     • Cabinet Ministers of the central government.
     • Chief Ministers of all states and Union Territories.
     • Administrators of Union Territories with Legislative Assemblies.
     • Members of the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog), if any.
   • The Deputy Chairman of NITI Aayog serves as the Secretary to the NDC.
3. Functions:
   • The main functions of the National Development Council include:
     • Reviewing and assessing the progress of national development plans and programs.
     • Identifying priority areas for development and allocating resources accordingly.
     • Formulating five-year plans and other development strategies for the country.
     • Recommending measures for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of development programs.
     • Coordinating policies and programs between the central and state governments to ensure harmonious and balanced development.
     • Addressing specific developmental challenges and issues affecting different regions and sectors.
     • Providing guidance and direction to various ministries, departments, and agencies involved in the implementation of development programs.
4. Working:
   • The National Development Council meets periodically to discuss and deliberate on development-related matters.
   • It reviews the progress of ongoing development programs and schemes and identifies areas requiring attention or intervention.
   • The NDC formulates broad policy guidelines and strategies for national development, which serve as a basis for the preparation of five-year plans and other development initiatives.
   • It fosters cooperation and collaboration between the central and state governments by facilitating dialogue and consensus-building on developmental issues.
   • The NDC plays a crucial role in ensuring that development efforts are aligned with national priorities and objectives, and that resources are optimally utilized for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.

Overall, the National Development Council serves as a key platform for coordinating and steering the development agenda of India, with the aim of promoting equitable and balanced development across the country.