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 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 1) Less than 0.5 ha.

Key Points

• The average operational landholding size in Uttarakhand is less than 0.5 hectares.
• This small landholding size is indicative of fragmented and marginal farming patterns prevalent in the state.
• Uttarakhand's topography, which includes hilly and mountainous regions, contributes to the smaller landholding sizes.
• A significant portion of Uttarakhand's farmers are small and marginal farmers, typically owning less than 1 hectare of land.

Additional Information

• Marginal Farmers: Farmers who own less than 1 hectare of land. They represent a large portion of India's agrarian community.
• Fragmented Landholdings: A situation where agricultural land is divided into smaller, non-contiguous plots, often reducing productivity.
• Agricultural Challenges in Uttarakhand: Includes issues like limited arable land, soil erosion, and dependency on monsoon rains.
• Government Initiatives: Schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) aim to support small and marginal farmers.
• Horticulture and Cash Crops: In addition to traditional farming, many farmers in Uttarakhand engage in horticulture and cultivate cash crops like apples, pears, and other fruits.

The correct answer is 1)Only 1 and 2.

Key Points

• Agriculture in Uttarakhand is mostly rain-fed. The state relies heavily on the monsoon season for its agricultural activities due to its hilly terrain and limited irrigation infrastructure.
• Terrace farming is practiced extensively in the hilly regions of Uttarakhand. This method helps in soil conservation by reducing soil erosion and retaining water.
• The statement that more than 75% of farmers use tractors is incorrect. Most farmers in Uttarakhand, especially in hilly areas, rely on traditional farming methods and tools due to the difficult terrain and small landholdings.

Additional Information

• Rain-fed Agriculture: Agriculture that relies on rainfall for water. It is common in regions with limited irrigation facilities.
• Terrace Farming: A method of farming on the slopes of hills or mountains by cutting steps or terraces. This helps in reducing soil erosion and managing water runoff.
• Traditional Farming Methods: Methods that involve the use of simple tools and techniques passed down through generations. In hilly regions, these are often more practical than mechanized farming.
• Soil Conservation: Practices that prevent soil erosion and maintain soil health. Terrace farming is one such practice that is effective in hilly areas.
• Irrigation Infrastructure: Systems and facilities used to supply water to agricultural fields. Limited irrigation infrastructure in Uttarakhand makes rain-fed agriculture more common.

The correct answer is North East.

Key Points

• Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, is widely practiced in the North Eastern states of India, including Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Tripura.
• It involves clearing forested land by slash-and-burn methods, cultivating crops for a few years, and then leaving the land fallow to restore fertility.
• Jhum cultivation is often carried out by indigenous tribes who rely on this method for subsistence farming and maintaining their traditional way of life.
• This form of agriculture is particularly suited to the hilly terrain and heavy rainfall conditions of the North East region.
• The practice has raised concerns about deforestation, soil erosion, and environmental degradation, prompting efforts to introduce alternative sustainable farming methods.

Additional Information

• Shifting Cultivation:
  • Shifting cultivation is an agricultural system where land is cultivated temporarily and then abandoned to allow natural vegetation to regenerate.
  • It is primarily practiced in tropical and subtropical regions with heavy rainfall and dense forest cover.
• Slash-and-Burn Method:
  • This method involves cutting down vegetation and burning it to clear land for agriculture.
  • While it provides short-term fertility through ash, it can lead to long-term soil degradation and loss of biodiversity.
• Environmental Concerns:
  • Jhum cultivation contributes to deforestation, loss of wildlife habitats, and soil erosion.
  • Efforts are being made to shift farmers to terrace farming and agroforestry to mitigate these impacts.
• Government Initiatives:
  • The Indian government and NGOs are promoting sustainable agricultural practices to replace Jhum cultivation.
  • Programs like Integrated Tribal Development Projects aim to improve livelihoods while conserving the environment.
• Traditional Knowledge:
  • Jhum cultivation reflects the indigenous knowledge systems of tribal communities, including crop rotation and soil management.
  • Preservation of this knowledge is critical for understanding sustainable farming practices in specific ecological contexts.

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 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 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 Prof. MS Swaminathan.

Key Points

• Prof. MS Swaminathan is widely recognized as the leader of the Green Revolution in India.
• He is an agricultural scientist known for his leadership and scientific research in the field of agriculture.
• He played a pivotal role in introducing and developing high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of wheat and rice in India.
• His work significantly contributed to transforming India's food production system, leading to self-sufficiency in food grains and reducing the risk of famine.
• He has been honored with numerous awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to agriculture.
• He served as the Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).
• Prof. MS Swaminathan's efforts were instrumental in the establishment of the National Commission on Farmers, which aimed to improve the welfare of farmers in India.

 Additional Information

• C Subramaniam
  • C Subramaniam was the Minister of Agriculture during the period of the Green Revolution in India.
  • He played a crucial role in the implementation of policies that supported the Green Revolution.
  • He is often referred to as the architect of India's modern agricultural development.
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad
  • Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first President of India.
  • He was a prominent freedom fighter and a key figure in the Indian independence movement.
  • While he supported agricultural development, he is not specifically known for the Green Revolution.
• Tribhuvandas Kishibhai Patel
  • Tribhuvandas Kishibhai Patel was a notable Indian cooperative leader.
  • He is best known for founding the Amul cooperative in Gujarat, which revolutionized the dairy industry in India.
  • His work primarily focused on the white revolution (dairy farming) rather than the Green Revolution.

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.

The correct answer is latex.

Key Points

• Natural rubber is harvested from the latex of rubber trees, specifically from the Hevea brasiliensis species.
• Latex is a milky fluid found in the inner bark of the rubber tree and is extracted through a process known as tapping.
• After collection, latex is coagulated and processed into various forms of rubber, including sheets, blocks, and crepes.
• Natural rubber is highly valued for its elasticity, resilience, and tensile strength, making it essential in various industries, particularly automotive and manufacturing.

Additional Information

• Hevea brasiliensis: The primary source of natural rubber, this species of rubber tree is native to the Amazon rainforest but is now widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, Africa, and other tropical regions.
• Tapping: The process of extracting latex involves making incisions in the bark of the rubber tree and collecting the fluid in containers.
• Coagulation: The process where latex is treated with acids to solidify it, forming raw rubber that can be processed into various products.
• Uses of Natural Rubber: It is used in the production of tires, footwear, medical devices, and numerous industrial products due to its unique properties.
• Synthetic Rubber: An alternative to natural rubber, synthesized from petroleum byproducts. While it has some similar properties, it lacks the full range of benefits of natural rubber.

The correct answer is 1983.

Key Points

• India adopted Zero Based Budgeting (ZBB) in the year 1983.
• The concept of ZBB was introduced in India by the then Finance Minister, Pranab Mukherjee, in the Union Budget.
• Zero Based Budgeting requires all expenses to be justified for each new period, starting from a "zero base" and analyzing every function within an organization for its needs and costs.
• This budgeting approach aims to eliminate unnecessary expenses and ensure efficient allocation of resources.
• ZBB was first developed by Peter Pyhrr in the 1960s and later adopted by the United States during the presidency of Jimmy Carter.

Additional Information

• Zero Based Budgeting (ZBB)
  • ZBB is a method of budgeting in which all expenses must be justified and approved for each new period, regardless of previous budgets.
  • Unlike traditional budgeting, it starts from a "zero base" and every function is analyzed for its needs and costs.
  • It helps in identifying and eliminating unproductive and redundant activities by prioritizing and allocating resources efficiently.
  • ZBB is particularly useful for organizations facing financial constraints or looking to optimize their spending.
• Benefits of Zero Based Budgeting
  • Encourages cost-effective ways of improving operations.
  • Promotes efficient allocation of resources based on current needs and benefits.
  • Enhances accountability and transparency in financial planning and management.
  • Helps in identifying and discontinuing outdated or non-essential activities and programs.
• Challenges of Zero Based Budgeting
  • Time-consuming and requires detailed analysis and documentation.
  • Can be complex to implement, especially in large organizations with numerous departments.
  • Requires thorough training and understanding among staff and management.
  • Potential resistance from employees due to increased scrutiny and justification of expenses.
• Comparison with Traditional Budgeting
  • Traditional budgeting typically uses the previous year’s budget as a base and makes incremental adjustments.
  • ZBB starts from scratch, requiring every expense to be re-evaluated and justified.
  • While traditional budgeting is less time-consuming, it may perpetuate inefficiencies and outdated spending patterns.
  • ZBB, though more thorough, helps in aligning the budget with current organizational goals and priorities.