Read the following Assertion (A) and Reason (R) carefully and choose the correct option.
Assertion (A): The Minimum Needs Programme (MNP) was introduced in the Fifth Plan.
Reason (R): It targeted improvement in quality of life through education, health, and drinking water.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer: Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation:
- Assertion (A) is true: The Minimum Needs Programme was introduced during India's Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974–78).
- Reason (R) is true: The primary objective of this programme was to provide basic amenities to the poorest sections of society. It included components such as primary education, rural health, rural water supply, rural roads, rural electrification, and slum improvement, with the aim of enhancing people's standard of living.
- Since Assertion (A) describes the inception of the programme, and Reason (R) elucidates the fundamental objective behind that programme (which was linked to the Fifth Plan's goals of 'Garibi Hatao' [Eradication of Poverty] and 'Self-Reliance'), R serves as the correct explanation for A.
Additional Points:
- Conception: This programme was formulated by D.P. Dhar.
- Expansion: Subsequently, other components—such as rural sanitation and domestic energy—were also added to it.
- Goal: Its core philosophy was to ensure 'Social Justice with Growth.'
Potential Questions and Answers:
Question: Who formulated the Minimum Needs Programme (MNP)?
Answer: D.P. Dhar.
Question: What was the main slogan of the Fifth Five-Year Plan?
Answer: 'Garibi Hatao' (Eradication of Poverty).
Question: Which Five-Year Plan was terminated one year ahead of its scheduled completion?
Answer: The Fifth Five-Year Plan (by the Janata Party government in 1978).