The correct answer is C. IPR 1977.

The IPR, or Industrial Policy Resolution, of 1977 is an important policy in the context of Indian industrial development. It emphasized the need for promoting small-scale industries through integrated industrial development. Here’s a detailed explanation of why the answer “C. IPR 1977” is correct and why the other options (A, B, and D) are not:

Correct Answer (C): IPR 1977

The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1977 was a significant step in India’s industrial development. It marked a shift in the approach to industrialization, emphasizing the importance of small-scale industries and integrated industrial development. Several key points support the correctness of this answer:

1. Small-Scale Industries Promotion:

One of the central features of the IPR 1977 was the focus on promoting small-scale industries. It recognized the role of small-scale and cottage industries in generating employment, reducing regional imbalances, and ensuring more equitable economic development. The policy aimed to provide support and incentives to these sectors to enhance their growth.

2. Integrated Industrial Development:

The IPR 1977 also stressed the importance of integrated industrial development. It aimed to bring together various sectors of the economy, such as agriculture, agro-processing, and small-scale industries, to create a harmonious and balanced industrial structure. This integrated approach was seen as crucial for overall economic development.

3. Public Sector and Private Sector:

The policy also outlined the role of both the public and private sectors in industrial development. It recognized the importance of the public sector in areas where it was necessary for strategic or economic reasons while encouraging the private sector to play a significant role in industrial growth.

Now, let’s explain why the other options are not correct:

Option (A): IPR 1948

The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 was one of the earliest industrial policies in post-independence India. It aimed at regulating the concentration of economic power, securing social justice, and preventing the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few.

However, it did not specifically emphasize the promotion of small-scale industries through integrated industrial development, which is a key feature of IPR 1977.

Option (B): IPR 1956

The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1956 was another significant policy in India’s industrial history. It emphasized the role of the public sector and set the framework for industrialization through a mixed economy model.

While it addressed various aspects of industrial development, including the role of the public sector, it did not place the same emphasis on promoting small-scale industries through integration as the IPR 1977 did.

Option (D): IPR 1980

The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1980 marked a departure from the earlier policies, as it introduced a series of economic reforms, including an increased role for the private sector, liberalization of the industrial licensing regime, and measures to encourage foreign investment.

While the IPR 1980 brought about significant changes in the Indian industrial landscape, its focus was more on economic liberalization and not on the promotion of small-scale industries through integrated industrial development.

In summary, the Industrial Policy Resolution of 1977 is correctly associated with the emphasis on promoting small-scale industries through integrated industrial development.

It recognized the significance of these industries in generating employment and fostering balanced economic growth. The other options (A, B, and D) do not align with this specific emphasis and instead represent different policy approaches and periods in India’s industrial history.