The Hill Area Development Programme commenced during the Fourth Five Year Plan. This program was established to address the specific requirements and difficulties encountered in India's hill regions, which necessitated targeted support due to their unique geography, scarce resources, and developmental barriers. The objective was to foster economic progress and enhance living standards in these areas through a focus on sustainable development and prudent resource management, contributing to a more balanced national regional development.
| Plan | Initiation Year |
|---|---|
| First Five Year Plan | 1951 |
| Second Five Year Plan | 1956 |
| Third Five Year Plan | 1961 |
| Fourth Five Year Plan | 1969 |
| Fifth Five Year Plan | 1974 |