Concept:
Planning involves creating various operational blueprints. Plans can be classified into single-use plans and standing plans, or distinct sub-types. Let us systematically define each type of plan from Column-I:
• Policy: A standing guide to decision-making. It defines boundaries within which decisions must be made and channelizes thinking (Matches with iv).
• Programme: A single-use comprehensive plan that packages objectives, policy, procedures, rules, and resource allocation for a project (Matches with ii).
• Method: Deals with the prescribed steps or specific routine ways of executing a single task with maximum efficiency (Matches with i).
• Strategy: A broad, comprehensive layout designed to achieve macro objectives while actively factoring in competitive and environmental risks (Matches with iii).
Step 1: Systematic cross-matching of each element.
Let us combine our conceptual knowledge directly with the choices:
• a. Policy $\rightarrow$ (iv) "A general statement that guides thinking..."
• b. Programme $\rightarrow$ (ii) "Detailed statement about a project which outline the objectives..."
• c. Method $\rightarrow$ (i) "Prescribed way or manner in which a task has to be performed..."
• d. Strategy $\rightarrow$ (iii) "A comprehensive plan for accomplishing... taking business environment into consideration."
Step 2: Verifying the correct alternative choice.
Reviewing the available combinations, we find that the combination a-(iv), b-(ii), c-(i), d-(iii) corresponds exactly to alternative configuration (B).