To what extent were Nehru’s economic policies successful?

Candidates will consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that Nehru’s economic policies were successful. They may adopt a chronological approach that contextualises Nehru’s economic policies by referring to the state of India at the time of partition and after his rule, but this must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and refer to aspects such as the Five Year Plans, agricultural improvements, industrialization, government sponsored projects, government regulation, taxation, and the limitations on foreign investment and imports. These need not all be covered or covered equally. While other, relevant, factors such as political and cultural issues or foreign policies may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the suggestion.