पहिल्या पंचवार्षिक योजनेत खालीलपैकी कोणत्या क्षेत्राला अग्रक्रम देण्यात आला ?

The correct answer is Option B (Agricultural sector).

Key Points:
• The First Five-Year Plan (1951–1956) was based on the Harrod-Domar growth model and was launched in the backdrop of severe food shortages, partition shocks, and post-war inflation.
• Highest priority in the First Plan was accorded to the Agricultural sector (शेती क्षेत्र), including major multipurpose irrigation and power projects.
• Large-scale dams such as Bhakra-Nangal, Hirakud, and Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) were initiated during this plan period to augment irrigation and food-grain self-sufficiency.
• In contrast, the Second Five-Year Plan (1956–1961), based on the Nehru-Mahalanobis model, shifted priority to rapid industrialization and heavy capital goods industries.
• The First Plan achieved a remarkable GDP growth rate of 3.6% against a targeted 2.1%.
• Key Takeaway: The First Five-Year Plan (1951–56) prioritized agriculture and irrigation to tackle food shortages.