Which plan introduced Minimum Needs Programme?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Fifth.
The Minimum Needs Programme (MNP) was introduced during the Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974–79). Its primary objective was to provide basic minimum services to the people, particularly the rural poor, to improve their living standards. The program focused on eight key components: elementary education, rural health, water supply, roads, electrification, housing for landless laborers, environmental improvement of slums, and nutrition. It aimed to balance economic growth with social justice by addressing core human necessities directly.
Other options:
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Third Plan: Focused on agriculture and improvement in the production of wheat, but failed due to the Sino-Indian war.
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Fourth Plan: Aimed at "Growth with Stability" and progressive achievement of self-reliance; it saw the nationalization of 14 banks.
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Sixth Plan: Marked the beginning of economic liberalization and focused on poverty eradication (Garibi Hatao) through infrastructure development.