Step 1 — About Five Year Plans in India:
India adopted the concept of Five Year Plans in 1951, modeled on the planning system of the Soviet Union. These plans were aimed at achieving balanced economic growth, poverty reduction, employment generation, and social justice through centralized economic planning.
Step 2 — Context of the 12th Five Year Plan:
The 12th Five Year Plan was the last officially implemented plan before the planning system was replaced by the NITI Aayog in 2015. It focused on “Faster, More Inclusive and Sustainable Growth” and addressed key areas like education, health, environment, and infrastructure development.
Step 3 — Period covered:
The 12th Five Year Plan spanned the period from 2012 to 2017. This timeline followed directly after the 11th Plan (2007–2012) and was meant to align with India’s long-term vision for sustainable development.
Step 4 — Conclude:
Thus, the 12th Five Year Plan was for the period 2012–2017.
Answer: The correct option is (D) : 2012–2017.