Correct Option
The Fifth Five Year Plan was implemented from 1974 to 1979. This period witnessed significant political developments in India:
- The National Emergency was declared in June 1975 and remained in effect until March 1977.
- Following the revocation of the Emergency, general elections were held in 1977.
- These elections resulted in the defeat of the Indian National Congress and the formation of the Janata Party government, marking the first non-Congress government at the Centre.
- The Janata government subsequently terminated the Fifth Plan one year early in 1978.
Incorrect Options
Option (a) Third: The Third Five Year Plan spanned from 1961 to 1966, which significantly predates the period of the Emergency and the subsequent political changes mentioned in the question.
Option (b) Fourth: The Fourth Five Year Plan was implemented from 1969 to 1974, concluding just before the declaration of the Emergency in June 1975.
Option (d) Sixth: The Sixth Five Year Plan commenced in 1980 and concluded in 1985, occurring after the events of the Emergency and the election of the Janata Party government.