Which Five-Year Plan aimed to achieve self-reliance and aimed at 'growth with stability'?

The correct answer is Fourth Plan.

Key Points

• The Fourth Five-Year Plan (1969-1974) aimed to achieve self-reliance and emphasized growth with stability in India’s economy.
• This plan focused on increased industrial production and reducing dependence on foreign imports by encouraging domestic production.
• It aimed to strengthen the agriculture sector while promoting technological advancements, particularly in heavy industries and infrastructure.
• The goal was to enhance the overall economic structure, reduce poverty, and improve social and industrial development.

Additional Information

• The Fourth Plan was introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, during a period of political instability and a focus on strengthening national unity.
• Self-reliance was a key theme, as India sought to reduce its dependence on foreign aid and promote indigenous growth in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and defense.
• The Fourth Plan also saw efforts in the Green Revolution, aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, especially in staple crops like wheat and rice.
• Despite these efforts, the plan faced challenges like the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and an energy crisis that hindered its full success.
• The focus on growth with stability continued in subsequent plans, but the Fourth Plan marked a crucial step in India’s journey toward economic self-sufficiency.
• Subsequent Five-Year Plans shifted focus, such as the Sixth Plan (1980-1985), which prioritized poverty alleviation and employment generation.