SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 22

Solution: The correct answer is Third Plan.
Explanation:
☛ The Third Five-Year Plan spanned from 1961 to 1966.
☛ The first implementation of the Green Revolution in India began during 1965–1966 in the final years of the Third Five-Year Plan.
☛ It introduced High-Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds, advanced irrigation methods, and chemical fertilizers to achieve self-sufficiency in food grains.
☛ The initiative was spearheaded in India by agricultural scientist Dr. M. S. Swaminathan along with the support of Norman Borlaug.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Second Plan (1956–1961): Based on the P. C. Mahalanobis model, focusing on rapid industrialization and heavy industries.
☛ Plan Holidays (1966–1969): Due to the failure of the Third Plan, Indo-Pak war (1965), and severe drought, three successive annual plans were implemented.
☛ Fourth Plan (1969–1974): Formulated under Indira Gandhi's government with the primary objective of "Growth with Stability" and progressive achievement of self-reliance.
☛ Fifth Plan (1974–1979): Focused on "Garibi Hatao" (Poverty Alleviation) and self-reliance, later terminated a year early in 1978.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Who is known as the 'Father of the Green Revolution in India'? → Dr. M. S. Swaminathan
☛ Which food grain registered the highest increase in production due to the Green Revolution? → Wheat
☛ Who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his contributions to the Green Revolution? → Norman Borlaug
☛ Which Indian state was chosen as the first testing ground for the Green Revolution? → Punjab
☛ What famous slogan was coined by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri during the 1965 food crisis? → 'Jai Jawan Jai Kisan'