Agriculture in India MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Agriculture in India - Download Free PDF

Key Points

• The Ministry of Agriculture is the nodal ministry responsible for monitoring and managing drought conditions in India.
• The ministry provides guidelines and frameworks for drought preparedness, mitigation, and response.
• It coordinates with state governments and other central ministries to ensure effective management of drought situations.
• Key initiatives include contingency crop planning, water resource management, and financial support to affected farmers.

Important Points

• Droughts are recurring natural disasters in India that severely impact agriculture, water resources, and rural livelihoods.
• The Ministry of Agriculture provides a comprehensive drought manual to guide the states in identifying and managing droughts.
• The ministry also ensures the availability of funds through schemes like the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).
• Real-time data on rainfall, crop conditions, and water levels is used to assess drought situations and take timely action.

The correct answer is Rabi crops.

Key Points

• Zaid crops are short-season crops grown between the Rabi and Kharif seasons, typically during the summer months of March to June in India.
• These crops are sown after the harvest of Rabi crops and before the onset of the Kharif season.
• Zaid crops require warm, dry weather during growth and longer daylight hours for better yield.
• Examples of Zaid crops include watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, fodder crops, and vegetables.
• They contribute significantly to the agricultural economy by utilizing the idle period between major cropping seasons.

Additional Information

• Rabi Crops:
  • Sown in winter (October to December) and harvested in spring (April to June).
  • Examples include wheat, barley, mustard, gram, and peas.
• Kharif Crops:
  • Sown during the monsoon season (June to July) and harvested in autumn (September to October).
  • Examples include rice, maize, cotton, jowar, and bajra.
• Climatic Requirements:
  • Zaid crops thrive in regions with adequate irrigation facilities as they are grown in relatively dry conditions.
  • They require a combination of warm weather and sufficient water supply for optimal growth.
• Economic Importance:
  • By growing Zaid crops, farmers can maximize land usage and earn additional income between the Rabi and Kharif seasons.
  • These crops also help in meeting the demand for seasonal fruits and vegetables.

The correct answer is Kerala.

Key Points

• Kerala is widely known as the "Spice Garden of India" due to its extensive production and export of spices.
• The state has been a hub for spices like black pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg for centuries.
• Kerala accounts for a significant portion of India’s total spice production and is a leading exporter of spices globally.
• The unique tropical climate, fertile soil, and high humidity make Kerala an ideal region for spice cultivation.
• Major spice markets in Kerala include locations like Kochi, which is a central trading hub for spices in India.

Additional Information

• Black Pepper: Often referred to as the "King of Spices," Kerala is one of the largest producers of black pepper in India.
• Cardamom: Known as the "Queen of Spices," cardamom from Kerala is highly prized for its quality and flavor.
• Spice Trade History: Kerala's spice trade dates back to ancient times and attracted traders from Rome, Arabia, and China.
• Spice Board of India: Headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, the Spice Board is a government organization promoting the spice industry, including research and export facilitation.
• Sustainable Farming: Kerala’s farmers are increasingly adopting organic and sustainable farming practices for spice cultivation to meet global standards.

The correct answer is Irrigation.

Key Points

• Traditional irrigation methods like the Lever system and Dhekli were widely used in ancient agricultural practices in India.
• The Dhekli system involves using a long wooden log as a lever to draw water from a well or water source, requiring manual effort.
• The Lever system is based on simple mechanical principles where a lever and counterweights are used to lift water efficiently.
• These techniques were primarily utilized in areas with limited access to modern irrigation systems, ensuring water availability for crops.
• Such methods are eco-friendly and cost-effective but labor-intensive, making them less common in modern farming practices.

Additional Information

• Irrigation: The process of supplying water to crops artificially for growth in areas with insufficient rainfall.
• Traditional Irrigation Methods: Include Dhekli, Moat (Pulley system), Rahat (Water wheel), and Chain Pump, which rely on manual or animal labor.
• Modern Irrigation Systems: Include sprinkler systems, drip irrigation, and canal irrigation, which are more efficient and widely used today.
• Importance of Irrigation: Helps in maintaining soil moisture, improving crop yields, and enabling agriculture in arid and semi-arid regions.
• Sustainable Irrigation Practices: Combining traditional methods with modern technologies can promote sustainable water usage and agricultural productivity.

The correct answer is Rainy, winter.

Key Points

• Kharif crops are sown during the beginning of the monsoon season (June-July) and harvested in the rainy season (September-October).
• Rabi crops are sown at the beginning of the winter season (October-November) and harvested during summer (March-April).
• Kharif crops require high temperatures and abundant water supply, which is why they are grown during the rainy season.
• Rabi crops thrive in cold climates and require less water, making winter the ideal season for their growth.
• Examples of Kharif crops include rice, maize, and cotton, while examples of Rabi crops include wheat, mustard, and barley.

Additional Information

• Kharif crops: Also known as monsoon crops, they are dependent on rainfall and are grown in regions with adequate monsoon patterns.
• Rabi crops: Known as winter crops, they rely on irrigation rather than rainfall, as they are grown in dry conditions.
• Climatic conditions: The success of Kharif crops depends on the timing and intensity of monsoon rains, while Rabi crops are sensitive to frost and require cool temperatures.
• Double cropping: In some regions, farmers grow both Kharif and Rabi crops in the same year, maximizing agricultural yield.
• Economic significance: These cropping patterns play a crucial role in India's agriculture-dependent economy by ensuring year-round food production.

The correct answer is use of more labour and capital inputs on the given land under cultivation.

Key Points

• Intensive agriculture, also known as intensive farming, maximizes agricultural production from a given area of land using higher inputs of labour, machinery, and other farming resources.
• This method represents a stark contrast to extensive farming, where the land is used more broadly with less management or fewer inputs per unit area.
• Intensive agriculture uses practices like irrigation, advanced fertilizers, and other technological inputs to generate a high output per unit of land, making it well-suited for regions with high population density where land is in short supply.
• The aim of this agricultural practice is to grow plentiful crops and raise large numbers of animals cheaply and rapidly, which often leads to higher environmental impact compared to less intensive farming systems.

Additional Information

•  Extensive Farming:
  • Extensive farming is characterized by low inputs of labour and capital per unit area of land.
  • This farming method is traditionally used in regions with low agricultural productivity, such as remote, mountainous, or dry regions, where arable land is abundant.
  • It has less of an impact on the environment per unit of area compared to intensive farming, as it tends not to employ large amounts of harmful fertilizers or pesticides.
  • However, it usually generates less production per unit of land, which can be a potential downside in areas where the population is growing and food demand is high.
• Mechanized Farming:
  • Mechanized farming is characterized by the use of machinery for various farming operations, replacing traditional manual and animal labour.
  • This type of farming is usually employed in developed countries and in places where the cost of labour is high or labour is scarce.
  • Mechanized farming significantly increases the efficiency and productivity of the land, making large-scale farming feasible.
  • On the downside, it requires significant investment in machinery, which can be a barrier for small-scale farmers.
• Diversified Farming:
  • Diversified farming involves growing a variety of crops or raising various types of livestock on the same farm to maximize output and reduce risk.
  • This type of agriculture provides a variety of products, promoting food security, and can help to safeguard against the failure of a single crop or livestock.
  • Diversified farming can be beneficial to the environment, promoting biodiversity and reducing the need for chemical inputs as different plants and livestock can help to control pests and replenish soil nutrients.
  • However, it can require more labour, knowledge, and management compared to monocultures due to the complexity of farming multiple crops or livestock types.

The correct answer is Culturable waste land.

Key Points

• Culturable waste land refers to land that is available for cultivation but has not been cultivated for more than five years.
• This type of land includes both fallow lands and other wastelands that could be brought under cultivation with some efforts.
• The term is used in land use statistics to categorize and manage land resources more effectively.
• Such lands are important in the context of land management and agricultural planning.

Additional Information

• Current fallow land: Agricultural land that has been left uncultivated for less than a year.
• Fallow other than current fallow: Land that has been left uncultivated for a period of 1 to 5 years.
• Barren and waste land: Land that is not suitable for any cultivation due to poor soil quality, rocky terrain, or other inhospitable conditions.
• Land use statistics: These are vital for understanding the distribution and utilization of different types of land in a region, aiding in effective resource management.
• Importance of land classification: Accurate land classification helps in making informed decisions for agricultural development, urban planning, and environmental conservation.

The correct answer is Only ii and iii.

Key Points

• Agricultural Exports: During the Financial Year 2021-22, India's agricultural exports reached approximately USD 50.2 billion, reflecting a significant growth in the sector.
• Rice Procurement: During the Kharif Marketing Season 2021-22, India procured around 581.7 lakh metric tons of rice, indicating robust procurement policies.
• Growth Rate: The projected growth rate of the Indian agriculture sector for FY 2022-23 was not 5.5%; hence, statement i is incorrect.

Additional Information

• Agricultural Sector in India: The agriculture sector plays a crucial role in India's economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP.
• Kharif Marketing Season: This season pertains to the agricultural cycle during which crops like rice are harvested, running from June to October.
• Export Growth: India's agricultural export growth is driven by factors like improved logistics, market access, and government support for farmers.
• Procurement Policies: Government procurement ensures stable prices for farmers and adequate food supply for public distribution systems.

The correct answer is option 3.

Key Points

• Statement 1 – Correct – India has the largest irrigated area in the world (~70 million hectares), ahead of China and the USA.
• Statement 2 – Correct – China and the USA have a higher percentage of their cultivated land under irrigation (~50-60% for China vs. ~40% for India).
• Statement 3 –  Correct – Well and tube well irrigation account for over 60% of total irrigated land in India.
  • Correct Answer: (c) All three

The Correct answer is Bajra.

Key Points

• Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is a widely cultivated grain in India, especially in dry and arid regions.
• It is a drought-resistant crop that requires minimal water for cultivation, making it ideal for semi-arid and arid climates.
• Bajra is primarily grown in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Maharashtra.
• It is a hardy crop with the ability to grow in poor-quality soils and under extreme temperatures.
• Bajra is a rich source of essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and protein and is often used as a staple food in regions with limited water availability.
• It has a short growth cycle and can be harvested in 2-3 months, making it a reliable crop for farmers in water-scarce regions.
• In addition to human consumption, Bajra is also used as fodder for livestock, contributing to the agricultural economy.

 Additional Information

• Rice
  • Rice is a water-intensive crop that requires a significant amount of water for cultivation.
  • It is primarily grown in regions with high rainfall or where irrigation systems are well-developed.
  • Major rice-growing states in India include West Bengal, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Jute
  • Jute is a fiber crop that thrives in warm and humid climates with plenty of water.
  • It is mainly grown in the Ganges delta regions of West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar.
  • Jute is used to make products like gunny bags, ropes, and mats.
• Wheat
  • Wheat is a major rabi crop grown in cooler climates, typically during the winter season.
  • It requires moderate water and is cultivated in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
  • Wheat is a staple food crop and is used to produce flour, bread, and other food products.

The Correct answer is Podu.

Key Points

• Podu is a traditional form of shifting cultivation practiced by tribal communities in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
• This method involves clearing a patch of forest through slash-and-burn techniques, cultivating the land for a few years, and then allowing it to regenerate.
• The term Podu is derived from the local dialects and is common among tribes like the Koya, Chenchu, and other indigenous groups.
• This practice is particularly followed in the Eastern Ghats region of Andhra Pradesh, where the terrain and soil conditions are suitable for such cultivation.
• Although traditional, this method has been criticized for its impact on deforestation, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss.
• Efforts are being made by the government to promote sustainable agricultural practices and reduce dependency on shifting cultivation.

 Additional Information

• Dahiya
  • Dahiya refers to a form of shifting cultivation practiced in some parts of Madhya Pradesh and adjoining states.
  • This method is similar to Podu but is identified by a different local term in those regions.
• Bringa
  • The term Bringa is not specifically associated with any known form of shifting cultivation in India. It may be a distractor in this context.
• Valre
  • Valre is not recognized as a term related to any traditional agricultural practices in India.

The correct answer is Jhumming cultivation.

Key Points

• Valre' is a term associated with a traditional farming practice in Rajasthan, which is categorized under Jhumming cultivation.
• Jhumming cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, involves clearing forests by burning and cultivating crops on the cleared land temporarily.
• This form of farming is typically practiced in hilly regions or areas with poor soil fertility, and after a few years, the land is left fallow to recover.
• In Rajasthan, Valre' represents a localized adaptation of Jhumming cultivation suited to arid and semi-arid regions.
• Such practices are often sustainable for small-scale farming but can lead to deforestation if not managed properly.

Additional Information

• Jhumming cultivation
  • It is a form of agriculture practiced in various parts of India, including the northeastern states, Odisha, and Rajasthan.
  • The process includes cutting down vegetation, drying it, and burning it to clear the land for crops.
  • Common crops grown in Jhumming include millets, maize, and pulses.
  • After a few years of cultivation, farmers move to a new plot, allowing the old plot to regenerate naturally.
• Farming in Rajasthan
  • Rajasthan’s agriculture is predominantly rain-fed and adapted to arid conditions.
  • Major crops include bajra (pearl millet), wheat, pulses, mustard, and barley.
  • Traditional practices like Valre' and innovative irrigation techniques help cope with water scarcity.
• Sustainability Concerns
  • Shifting cultivation can contribute to soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity.
  • Efforts are being made to promote sustainable farming practices to balance agricultural needs and environmental conservation.
• Alternate Farming Techniques in Rajasthan
  • Drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and rainwater harvesting are widely promoted to address water scarcity.
  • Integrated farming systems combining agriculture, horticulture, and livestock are becoming popular.

The Correct answer is Urad and Cotton.

Key Points

• Kharif crops are typically sown at the onset of the monsoon season in India, which begins in June, and harvested in the months of September and October.
• Urad (black gram) and Cotton are important crops grown during the Kharif season due to their suitability for the climatic conditions associated with monsoons.
• Cotton thrives in regions with high temperatures and moderate rainfall, which are typical during the Kharif season.
• Urad is a leguminous crop that grows well in the warm and humid conditions during Kharif, particularly in states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
• Kharif crops require abundant water and are often dependent on rain-fed agriculture in India.
• Other major crops grown in the Kharif season include rice, maize, jowar, bajra, tur (arhar), moong, soybeans, and groundnut.
• The sowing of Kharif crops aligns with the arrival of the Southwest Monsoon, ensuring adequate water supply for their growth.

 Additional Information

• Groundnut and Barley
  • Groundnut is grown during both Kharif and Rabi seasons, but it is predominantly a Kharif crop due to its dependence on monsoon rainfall.
  • Barley, on the other hand, is a Rabi crop and is sown in winter (October-November) and harvested in summer (March-April).
• Gram and Mustard
  • Gram (Chickpea) and Mustard are both Rabi crops, which are grown in the winter season and harvested before summer.
  • These crops require cool weather and relatively less water compared to Kharif crops.
• Jute and Wheat
  • Jute is a major Kharif crop grown in regions like West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam due to high rainfall and warm climatic conditions.
  • Wheat, however, is a Rabi crop and is cultivated during the winter season.

The correct answer is Terrace cultivation.

Key Points

• Terrace cultivation involves carving flat areas out of a hilly or mountainous landscape to create step-like structures, which help reduce soil erosion by slowing down water runoff.
• This method is particularly effective on steep slopes where the erosion potential is high, as it helps in retaining soil and water.
• Terraces reduce the velocity of water runoff, thereby minimizing the soil erosion and loss of nutrients.
• It also helps in increasing the arable land area on slopes, thus supporting agricultural activities in hilly regions.

Additional Information

• Shifting cultivation
  • An agricultural system in which plots of land are cultivated temporarily, then abandoned.
  • It is not effective in preventing soil erosion and can lead to deforestation and soil degradation.
• Shelter belts
  • Rows of trees or shrubs planted to protect an area from wind and erosion.
  • Effective in flat and slightly undulating areas but not as effective as terrace cultivation on steep slopes.
• Mulching
  • The practice of covering the soil with organic or inorganic materials to conserve moisture and reduce erosion.
  • Useful in gardens and flat lands but less practical on steep slopes compared to terraces.
• Soil erosion
  • The process by which the topsoil is worn away by natural physical forces such as water and wind or through farming activities.
  • Soil erosion can lead to loss of soil fertility, reduced agricultural productivity, and environmental degradation.

The correct answer is Sugar Cane.

Key Points

• Sugar Cane is a tropical crop that requires a large amount of water for its growth.
• The crop has a long growing season, often ranging from 9 to 24 months.
• Because of its long duration, it requires a consistent and substantial water supply.
• Typically, sugar cane requires around 1500-2500 mm of water during its growth cycle.
• This high water requirement is due to the plant's need to produce a significant amount of biomass and sucrose.
• Regions cultivating sugar cane often rely on irrigation systems to meet these water needs.

 Additional Information

•  Banana
  • Banana plants also require a substantial amount of water but less than sugar cane.
  • They typically need about 1200-2200 mm of water.
  • Bananas thrive in tropical climates with high rainfall.
• Potato​
  • Potato plants generally require 500-700 mm of water.
  • They have a shorter growing season, reducing their overall water needs.
  • Potatoes are often grown in temperate regions with adequate rainfall.
• Tomato
  • Tomato plants need about 400-800 mm of water.
  • They are more drought-tolerant than sugar cane and bananas.
  • Tomatoes can be grown in a variety of climates, from temperate to tropical.