Question

Which Five-Year Plan was the first to be terminated before its completion, and why?

• A. Seventh Plan, due to political conflicts
• B. Third Plan, due to natural disasters
• C. Fifth Plan, due to a change in government
• D. Second Plan, due to economic instability

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Fifth Plan, due to a change in government

The Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974-1979)

• The Fifth Five-Year Plan was unique as it was the first plan to be terminated prematurely.

• It was originally scheduled to run from 1974 to 1979.

• However, the plan was cut short in 1978.

• The primary reason for its early termination was a change in government at the national level.

• The Janata Party government, which came to power in 1977, decided to discontinue the Fifth Plan.

• This new government introduced its own economic agenda, focusing on different priorities.

• The Janata government introduced the concept of a 'Rolling Plan'.

• A Rolling Plan is a plan that is reviewed and revised annually, allowing for flexibility and adaptation to changing economic conditions.

• The Fifth Plan's objectives included self-reliance, poverty reduction (Garibi Hatao), and improving the living standards of the poorest sections of society.