The shift in the pattern of industrialization, with lower emphasis on heavy industries and more on infrastructure, began in the Eighth Plan (1992-1997).

During the Fourth Plan (1969-1974), there was a focus on heavy industries, particularly the public sector steel, power, and machine building industries. The Sixth Plan (1980-1985) continued with this emphasis on heavy industries, with the objective of achieving self-sufficiency in basic and heavy industries. The Tenth Plan (2002-2007) aimed at accelerating the growth of the manufacturing sector, but did not specifically focus on a shift in the pattern of industrialization.

It was in the Eighth Plan (1992-1997) that the government recognized the need to shift the pattern of industrialization towards more balanced and sustainable growth, with a greater emphasis on infrastructure and service sectors. The plan aimed to promote industrial growth in the small and medium scale sectors and to increase private sector participation in infrastructure development. The plan also emphasized the need for environmental protection and sustainable development.