8. Science, Space, and Defense

2. Historical Context of Indian Development

Pre-Independence Era Before British colonial rule, India was a prosperous economy with thriving trade in textiles, spices, and handicrafts. The colonial period (1757–1947) led to deindustrialization, exploitation of resources, and famines, leaving India impoverished at the time of independence. Post-Independence Economic Policies After 1947, India adopted a mixed economy model with a focus on self-reliance (Swadeshi) and state-led industrialization. The Five-Year Plans, inspired by the Soviet model, emphasized heavy industries, agriculture, and public sector dominance. However, by the 1980s, inefficiencies and slow growth necessitated reforms.

7. Agricultural Development and Rural Economy

- Green Revolution (1960s): Boosted food grain production. - Challenges: Farmer distress, water scarcity, and market access issues.

6. Social Development

Education System and Literacy Rates - Literacy rate improved from 18% (1951) to 77% (2024). - Challenges: Quality of education and dropout rates persist. Healthcare Improvements and Challenges - Life expectancy rose from 32 years (1947) to 70 years (2024). - Ayushman Bharat provides health insurance to 500 million people. Poverty Alleviation and Employment Schemes - MNREGA provides rural employment to 50 million households annually. - Poverty rate declined from 45% (1993) to ~10% (2024).

Indian Development: Progress, Challenges, and Future Prospects

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