Q7(c) Assess the criteria required for selecting regions for developmental planning. 15 Marks (PYQ/2024)

Answer:

Introduction

Developmental planning involves identifying regions that can act as engines for broader economic and social growth. In geography, models such as François Perroux’s Growth Pole Theory, Walter Christaller’s Central Place Theory, and Paul Krugman’s New Economic Geography underscore the importance of spatial agglomeration and connectivity. Planners seek to identify and nurture growth poles, growth centers, and growth nodes that maximize regional potential while ensuring sustainable and inclusive progress. The selection of regions for development requires a holistic assessment of physical, economic, infrastructural, governance, and socio-cultural criteria.

Key Criteria for Regional Selection

1. Physical and Environmental Considerations

• Geographical Location and Topography: Regions with strategic locations—proximity to coastlines, river basins, or resource-rich areas—offer natural advantages. For instance, areas in alluvial plains with gentle slopes often support intensive agriculture, while hilly regions may require specialized infrastructure.
• Climate and Natural Resources: Favorable climate conditions and abundant natural resources (water, minerals, fertile soils) are essential. Tools such as GIS and Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) help quantify these factors. According to the UN Environment Programme (UEP, 2021), sustainable land use planning is critical to avoid overexploitation of natural resources.

2. Economic and Demographic Attributes

• Market Potential and Economic Base: An effective region for development displays a robust economic base, diversified industries, and strong market potential. Central Place Theory suggests that urban centers act as hubs for services and commerce that radiate benefits to surrounding areas. World Bank data (2022) indicates that regions with higher GDP per capita and favorable demographic profiles are better positioned for rapid growth.
• Population Dynamics and Labor Markets: A growing population with a considerable proportion of young, skilled workers supports dynamic economic activity. The existence of urban–rural linkages further encourages the diffusion of development throughout the region.

3. Infrastructure and Connectivity

• Transport Networks: Quality transportation infrastructure—roads, rail, air, and seaports—are necessary to integrate regions into national and global markets. The Gravity Model, which evaluates spatial interactions based on economic mass and distance, highlights the importance of connectivity.
• Utilities and Digital Infrastructure: Reliable electricity, water supply, and effective communication systems are prerequisites. Digital connectivity is now equally indispensable to support modern economic activities and public services.

4. Governance, Policy, and Institutional Framework

• Political Stability and Effective Governance: Regions must have a stable political environment and efficient administrative institutions to implement developmental projects. Policy frameworks that encourage public–private partnerships and offer investment incentives are crucial. The World Governance Indicators (WGI, 2021) provide benchmarks for assessing institutional capacity.
• Regulatory Environment: Transparent land use policies, zoning laws, and environmental regulations ensure that development is sustainable and inclusive.

5. Socio-Cultural Factors

• Cultural Heritage and Social Equity: Preserving local culture and ensuring inclusive participation in development projects can enhance quality of life and socio-cultural resilience. The equitable distribution of services helps reduce regional disparities and social marginalization.
• Community Participation: Local stakeholder engagement fosters ownership, ensuring that regional growth benefits those who live there.

Case Studies

Case Study 1: Bangalore, India Bangalore has emerged as a leading growth center, especially in the IT sector. With an annual growth rate of 8–10% (NITI Aayog, 2021), it illustrates how a favorable demographic profile, robust digital infrastructure, and supportive governance can transform urban areas into global innovation hubs. Satellite towns surrounding Bangalore have evolved into growth nodes, diffusing economic opportunities.

Case Study 2: Curitiba, Brazil Curitiba is recognized for its integrated urban planning and sustainable public transport system. The city’s focus on green spaces, efficient transit, and active community participation has improved urban livability. Data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE, 2021) highlights that Curitiba’s planning model has reduced commuting times and pollution, thereby increasing the overall quality of urban life.

Conclusion

Selecting regions for developmental planning is a complex, multidimensional process. By integrating physical, economic, infrastructural, governance, and socio-cultural criteria, policymakers can identify strategic areas that serve as growth poles, centers, and nodes—ensuring that development is sustainable, inclusive, and capable of catalyzing regional transformation. This holistic approach, supported by theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, remains vital in guiding effective regional planning in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

Sources:

• UN Environment Programme (2021)
• World Bank Reports (2022)
• NITI Aayog Data (2021)
• IBGE (2021)