Which of the following statements about the National Development Council are correct?
(A) It is presided over by the Prime Minister. (B) It includes all Union Cabinet Ministers, Chief Ministers of States, and Administrators of Union Territories. (C) It includes members of the NITI Aayog. (D) Ministers of State with independent charge are also invited to the deliberations of the Council.
Select the correct answer by using the codes given below:

Correct option is D

Ans. (d)
All statements about the National Development Council (NDC) are correct:
1. It is presided over by the Prime Minister.
2. Includes Union Cabinet Ministers, Chief Ministers, and Administrators of Union Territories.
3. Includes members of the NITI Aayog (formerly Planning Commission).
4. Ministers of State with independent charge are also invited to its deliberations.
The NDC was established in 1952 to promote cooperation between the Union and States in the sphere of planning and policy implementation.
Information Booster
1. NDC is not a constitutional body but an advisory body for planning in India.
2. It was established to ensure that states participate in the national planning process.
3. It plays a significant role in approving Five-Year Plans and development projects.
4. The NITI Aayog Governing Council now undertakes similar functions post the abolition of the Planning Commission.
5. Members include Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, and Union Ministers.
6. Meetings focus on issues like GDP growth, social welfare, and infrastructure development.
7. The last NDC meeting was held in 2012.