Which five-year plan made in 1956 focused on the development of heavy industries like steel and construction of large dams?

The correct answer is Second Five-Year Plan.

Key Points

• The Second Five-Year Plan (1956-1961) emphasized the development of heavy industries such as steel, machinery, and infrastructure projects like large dams.
• It was based on the Mahalanobis model, which aimed to prioritize industrialization and economic self-reliance.
• The plan aimed to build a strong industrial base to support the long-term growth of the Indian economy.
• Key projects during this period included the establishment of steel plants in Bhilai, Rourkela, and Durgapur, and the construction of the Bhakra Nangal and Damodar Valley dams.
• The Second Five-Year Plan laid the foundation for India's industrial policy and contributed to the diversification of its industrial sector.

Additional Information

• Mahalanobis Model
  • Named after Indian statistician Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis.
  • Focused on investment in heavy industries and capital goods sector to drive economic growth.
  • Emphasized the importance of domestic production of machinery and equipment to reduce foreign dependency.
  • Considered critical for the long-term development of the Indian economy.
• Heavy Industries
  • Industries involved in the production of large and heavy products and those that require large capital investment.
  • Examples include steel plants, machinery manufacturing, and chemical plants.
  • Key to building infrastructure and supporting other sectors of the economy.
• Steel Plants
  • Steel plants established during the Second Five-Year Plan include Bhilai, Rourkela, and Durgapur.
  • These plants were set up with the collaboration of countries like the Soviet Union, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
  • Played a crucial role in the industrialization of India.
• Large Dams
  • Important for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control.
  • Notable projects include the Bhakra Nangal Dam and Damodar Valley Corporation.
  • Contributed to the Green Revolution by ensuring a stable water supply for agriculture.