How many industries were listed in Schedule A of Industrial Policy, 1956?

The correct answer is 17.

Key Points

• The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1956 in India classified industries into three categories: Schedule A, B, and C.
• There were 17 industries listed under Schedule A.
• The industries under Schedule A were the ones where the state would have exclusive responsibility.
• The purpose of such categorization was to help in the systematic development of various sectors in India.
• Some of the sectors under Schedule A included arms and ammunition, atomic energy, iron and steel, heavy machinery, mineral oil, coal, etc.
• The Initiative was a part of India's broader 'socialistic pattern of society' approach where the state played a dominant role in industrial development.

Additional Information

• Schedule B:
  • Schedule B consisted of 12 industries.
  • These industries were to be progressively state-owned, but private enterprise could also supplement the effort.
  • This schedule included industries such as aluminium and other non-ferrous metals, machine tools, electrical engineering, automobiles and tractors, industrial and agricultural chemicals, and more.
• Schedule C:
  • Schedule C covered the rest of the industries, and they were left open to the private sector, although the state could also venture.
  • This implied that the rest of the industries not specified in Schedule A or B could be initiated and operated by private enterprises.
  • The government could also start any new industry in this category, depending on the national interest.

This policy intended to maintain a balance between public and private sectors, providing ample opportunities for private entities while the State assumed responsibility for industrial development in certain sectors.