What was the targeted growth rate of the Second Five-Year Plan?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2 i.e. 4.5%
The targeted growth rate of the Second Five-Year Plan (1956–1961) of India was 4.5% per annum. Also known as the Mahalanobis Plan, it was formulated under the guidance of economist P.C. Mahalanobis and focused on rapid industrialisation, particularly the development of heavy industries such as steel, machinery, and energy production. Unlike the First Plan, which emphasised agriculture, the Second Plan prioritised building a strong industrial base to ensure long-term economic growth and self-reliance. While the actual growth fell slightly short of the target, the plan successfully laid the foundation for India’s industrial development and modern infrastructure, shaping the country’s economic trajectory for the future.