Plan Formulation at Grass-Roots

Plan Formulation at Grass-Roots P N Dube PROFESSOR GADOIL has consistently argued for introduction of an clement of 'planning from the bottom' in the formulation of the Plans. This concept emphasises a wide diffusion of initiative, decision making and participation; it also implies a parallel shouldering of responsibilities. This democratic approach is necessary in view of the general agreement that planning so tar has not sufficiently taken into account the special circumstances prevailing in particular areas. Gadgil's two- phased approach would require that (i) exercises made at State and district level should start with collation of data on development resources, requirements and prospects so that the programmes are realistic enough to be achieved, and (ii) the details worked out for each programme should be aimed at justifying the place and priority of the programme in the Plan and should allow sufficient flexibility for improvement in the programme on the basis of subsequent experience and assessment of local requirements. This flexibility is all the more necessary in view of inadequacy of data at the national, State and district levels.