Planning Commission Role and Establishment

The Planning Commission of India was established on 15 March 1950, through an executive order of the Government of India. Its primary purpose was to assess all resources of the country, both physical and human, and to formulate plans for their most effective and balanced utilisation.

Vice-Chairman Appointment in March 1950

The question asks to identify the individual who joined the Planning Commission as its Vice-Chairman in March 1950. Let's look at the prominent figures associated with the early Indian government and planning:

• Jawaharlal Nehru served as the first Chairman of the Planning Commission, a role typically held by the Prime Minister.
• Gulzarilal Nanda was appointed as the first Vice-Chairman of the Planning Commission in March 1950. He played a significant role in shaping India's early economic policies and five-year plans.
• Jagjivan Ram was a prominent leader but was not the Vice-Chairman in March 1950.
• Shyama Prasad Mukherjee was a minister in the first cabinet but did not hold the Vice-Chairmanship of the Planning Commission at that time.
• John Mathai served as the first Finance Minister and later resigned from the cabinet. He was associated with the Planning Commission but not as its Vice-Chairman in March 1950.

Conclusion on Vice-Chairman Role

Based on historical records, Gulzarilal Nanda was the individual appointed as the Vice-Chairman of the Planning Commission in March 1950. He held this crucial position during the formative years of India's planned economy.