During which five-year plan was the Minimum Needs Programme introduced?

Correct option is C

The Minimum Needs Programme (MNP) was introduced during the Fifth Five-Year Plan (1974–1979) to improve the quality of life, especially in rural areas, by ensuring access to basic necessities.

Information Booster

1. The MNP aimed to provide basic services like health, education, drinking water, and housing.
2. It was launched alongside the emphasis on poverty alleviation under the "Garibi Hatao" slogan.
3. Targeted areas included rural electrification, nutrition, and environmental improvement of urban slums.
4. The program laid the foundation for integrated rural development schemes.
5. Funding was shared between the central and state governments.

Additional Knowledge

• Third Plan (a): Focused on agriculture and self-sufficiency.
• Fourth Plan (b): Aimed at stabilization and green revolution.
• Sixth Plan (d): Marked the shift towards economic liberalization.