Which Five Year Plan marked the beginning of the Green Revolution in India?

The correct answer is (A) Third Five Year Plan
Explanation:
The Third Five Year Plan (1961–1966) laid the foundational framework for the Green Revolution in India. During this period:
· India was facing food shortages, requiring urgent agricultural reforms.
· The government began HYV seed trials, expanded irrigation, and promoted chemical fertilizers.
· Institutional support such as Agricultural Universities and research centers was strengthened.
Information Booster (Important for SSC Exams):
· The Green Revolution focused mainly on wheat and rice productivity.
· HYV seeds were imported from Mexico (wheat) and IRRI Philippines (rice).
· India reduced dependence on PL-480 food imports from the USA due to rising domestic production.
· Agriculture shifted from subsistence to a technology-driven system.
Additional Knowledge (Expanded With Headings):
1. First Five Year Plan (1951–56) – Agricultural Focus but No Green Revolution
· Emphasis on irrigation, land reforms, and community development.
· Famous projects: Bhakra-Nangal Dam, Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC).
· Objective: Increase food production post-Partition.
2. Second Five Year Plan (1956–61) – Industrial Development
· Based on Mahalanobis Model (heavy industries).
· Set up major PSUs like SAIL, BHEL.
· Agriculture received secondary attention → contributed to food shortages.
3. Third Five Year Plan (1961–66) – Beginning of the Green Revolution
· Aimed to make India self-sufficient in food grains.
· Severe setbacks:
✔ India-China War (1962)
✔ India-Pak War (1965)
✔ Two consecutive drought years
· Result: Plan failed, leading to introduction of HYV seeds in 1966 under the New Agricultural Strategy.
4. Fourth Five Year Plan (1969–74) – Expansion of Green Revolution
· Large-scale adoption of HYV seeds across India.
· Massive increase in wheat output in Punjab & Haryana.
· India officially became food grain surplus.
5. Key Personalities of the Green Revolution
· Dr. M.S. Swaminathan – Father of the Green Revolution in India.
· Norman Borlaug – Father of the Green Revolution globally; developed HYV wheat.
· C. Subramaniam – Union Agriculture Minister who supported reforms.