Nine percent growth not possible in 12th Plan: Montek

"It is not possible to think of 9 percent growth. I think somewhere between 8 and 8.5 percent is feasible," Ahluwalia said when asked about the possible economic growth during the 12th Plan period (2012-17).

The approach paper for the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) approved by the panel led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has set a target of 9 percent average annual growth for the period.

Ahluwalia said even 8 percent growth would not be easy to achieve given the deteriorating global economic situation.

"When I say feasible, that will require major effort. If you don't do that, there is no god-given right to grow at 8 percent," Ahluwalia told reporters on the sidelines of an event organised by the Planning Commission here.

He said growth rate in 2012-13, the first year of the 12th Plan period, is likely to remain around 6.5 to 7 percent.

India's economic growth slumped to 6.5 percent in the financial year ended March 31, 2012, as compared to 8.4 percent in the previous year.