What is the Growth Pole Theory in regional development?

Proposed by François Perroux, it suggests that economic growth is not uniform but concentrates in specific 'poles' or hubs, which then stimulate growth in surrounding areas through multiplier effects.

How do top-down and bottom-up strategies differ?

Top-down strategies are government-led and focus on large-scale national projects, whereas bottom-up strategies involve decentralized planning and local community participation.

Why are regional development strategies important for UPSC?

They are central to both Paper I (theories of development) and Paper II (regional planning and Indian economic geography) of the UPSC Geography Optional syllabus.