Explanations:Economic planning in India has been a cornerstone of the country's development strategy since independence. The primary objectives of economic planning include growth, modernization, and self-reliance. Each of these objectives plays a crucial role in shaping the economic landscape of the country, but they serve different purposes and address different aspects of economic development.
Self-reliance, or 'Atmanirbharata' as it is often referred to in the Indian context, is a fundamental principle that emphasizes the importance of reducing the country's dependence on foreign goods and services. This objective is particularly significant because it fosters domestic production, encourages innovation, and strengthens the economy's resilience against external shocks. By promoting self-reliance, the country aims to build a robust and self-sustaining economic system that can meet its own needs without relying heavily on imports.
Modernization, on the other hand, focuses on technological and industrial advancements. It involves adopting new technologies, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the overall productivity of the economy. While modernization is crucial for economic development, it does not directly address the issue of reducing dependence on foreign goods. Instead, it aims to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of domestic industries.
Growth is another important objective of economic planning. It refers to the overall expansion of the economy, measured in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and other economic indicators. Growth is essential for increasing the standard of living, creating jobs, and improving the overall well-being of the population. However, like modernization, growth does not specifically target the reduction of foreign dependence.
Given these distinctions, the objective of self-reliance is the most relevant when it comes to reducing dependence on foreign goods. By promoting domestic production and fostering a self-sustaining economic system, self-reliance directly addresses the need to reduce the country's reliance on imports and strengthen its economic independence.
It is important to note that while all the objectives are interconnected and contribute to the overall development of the economy, they serve different purposes. Therefore, when the question specifically asks about the objective that aims to reduce dependence on foreign goods, self-reliance is the most appropriate answer.