Indira Gandhi took which of the following policy initiatives?

1. Abolition of Privy Purse
2. Nationalisation of banks
3. Nuclear test
4. Steps toward environmental protection

Choose the correct answer from the given options:

1,2,3 and 4

The correct answer is Option 4 - 1,2,3 and 4

1. Abolition of Privy Purse
2. Nationalisation of banks
3. Nuclear test
4. Steps toward environmental protection

Indira Gandhi (1917-1984): Prime Minister of India from 1966 to 1977 and 1980 to 1984; daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru; participated in the freedom struggle as a young Congress worker; Congress President in 1958; minister in Shastri’s cabinet from 1964-66; led the Congress party to victory in 1967, 1971 and 1980 general elections; credited with the slogan ‘garibi hatao’, victory in 1971 war and for policy initiatives like abolition of Privy Purse, nationalisation of banks, nuclear test and environmental protection; assassinated on 31 October 1984.

Detailed discussion:

• Abolition of Privy Purse:
  Indira Gandhi led the government's decision to abolish the Privy Purse in 1971. The Privy Purse was a financial provision that was given to the erstwhile princely states after India's independence in 1947. The decision to abolish it aimed to eliminate financial privileges for the former royal families and integrate them into the democratic structure of India.
• Nationalisation of Banks:
  In 1969, Indira Gandhi's government nationalized 14 major private banks in India. This policy aimed to bring the banking sector under government control, with the objective of promoting financial inclusion, directing credit towards priority sectors, and reducing the concentration of economic power.
• Nuclear Test:
  In 1974, Indira Gandhi's government conducted India's first successful nuclear test, codenamed "Smiling Buddha." The test had significant geopolitical implications and demonstrated India's capabilities in nuclear technology.
• Steps toward Environmental Protection:
  Indira Gandhi showed concern for environmental issues and took steps to address them. She supported initiatives such as the Green Revolution, which aimed to increase agricultural productivity, and took measures to control pollution and promote sustainable development.