India’s post-Independence development strategy emerged from intense debates among political leaders, economists, and social reformers regarding the most appropriate path for achieving economic growth, social justice, and national unity. Rather than adopting a single development model, India evolved a mixed approach by incorporating elements of capitalism, socialism, Gandhian philosophy, and democratic planning. These competing models reflected differing assumptions about the role of the state, markets, agriculture, industry, and social welfare. The legacy of the national movement significantly shaped these choices by emphasizing democracy, self-reliance, secularism, inclusive development, and national integration. One influential model was the Nehruvian socialist-planning approach. Jawaharlal Nehru believed that rapid industrialization, scientific advancement, and state-led economic planning were essential for overcoming colonial underdevelopment. Inspired by the Soviet planning model but adapted to democratic institutions, India established the Planning Commission in 1950 and introduced Five-Year Plans. Heavy industries, infrastructure, energy, steel, and machine-building industries received priority, while the public sector was entrusted with commanding heights of the economy. The objective was to reduce dependence on foreign countries and create the foundations for long-term economic growth. In contrast, the Gandhian model of development advocated decentralized economic organization based on self-sufficient villages, cottage industries, local production, and ethical economics. Mahatma Gandhi criticized excessive industrialization, arguing that it would generate unemployment, environmental degradation, and social inequality. His vision emphasized rural development, manual labour, trusteeship, sustainable livelihoods, and balanced human development rather than material accumulation. Although independent India did not fully adopt the Gandhian model, its influence remained visible in programmes