All questions of Agriculture for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Yes, tea is rainfall of more than 200 cm and sloping hills tea crop will be ideal

Kuhls are a traditional irrigation system in Himachal Pradesh. They are surface channels diverting water from natural flowing streams (khuds). A typical community Kuhl services 6 to 30 farmers, irrigating an area of about 20 ha.

Lading and jump are two different names of shifting cultivation also known as slash and burn agriculture

The underground water level is less in the peninsular region of India and high in the North region of India.

Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN) fertilizer is almost neutral and can be safely applied even to acid soils. Its total nitrogen (N) content is higher and may vary from 25 to 28% N content. Half (12.5% N) of this total nitrogen is in the ammoniacal form and rest half (12.5% N) in nitrate form. This is a good fertilizer applied in Agriculture.

Black soil is formed due to Solidification of lava spread over large areas during volcanic activity in the Deccan plateau. The Soil is rich in iron and nitrogen. It is suitable for cotton and groundnuts.

Assertion (A): Assam is the largest producer of tea in India.
- Assam is indeed the largest tea-producing state in India, contributing a significant portion of the country's total tea production.
- The state's climatic conditions, including its fertile soil and abundant rainfall, create an ideal environment for tea cultivation.
Reason (R): Cheap tribal labour is available in abundance in Assam.
- The availability of labor, including tribal communities, has historically played a role in the tea industry.
- However, attributing Assam's tea production solely to the availability of cheap labor oversimplifies the situation. Other factors, such as geographical advantages, investment in tea plantations, and established infrastructure, also contribute significantly to Assam's tea production.
Explanation of the Correct Answer (Option B):
- Both statements A and R are true.
- While the reason (R) mentions cheap tribal labor, it does not fully explain why Assam is the largest producer of tea. The region's climate, soil quality, and historical investment in tea cultivation are equally, if not more, important factors.
- Thus, while R is true, it is not the correct explanation for A, leading to the conclusion that option B is correct.
Conclusion:
- The correct answer is option B: Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
- This highlights the multifaceted nature of agricultural production, where various elements contribute to a state's prominence in a specific industry.

The correct answer is option 'D' - Philippines.

The Dapog method of rice nursery is a technique that was developed in the Philippines. It is a traditional method of raising rice seedlings in a nursery before transplanting them to the main field. This method has been widely used by Filipino farmers for many years and has proven to be effective in increasing rice productivity.

Here is an explanation of the Dapog method of rice nursery in detail:

1. Definition and Purpose:
- The Dapog method involves the use of small seedbeds or nurseries to grow rice seedlings before they are transplanted to the main field.
- The purpose of this method is to ensure the healthy growth of seedlings, improve their survival rate, and achieve higher yields in the main field.

2. Preparation of the Nursery:
- A suitable area of land is selected for the nursery, usually near a water source for irrigation.
- The land is plowed and leveled to create a smooth seedbed.
- The size of the nursery can vary depending on the number of seedlings needed.
- The nursery is divided into small plots or dapogs, usually measuring around 1.5 meters by 1.5 meters.

3. Seed Preparation and Sowing:
- High-quality rice seeds are selected and soaked in water for about 24 hours.
- The soaked seeds are then spread evenly on a clean cloth or mat to allow them to dry for a few hours.
- The dried seeds are sown in the prepared dapogs, with a recommended spacing of 2-3 seeds per hole.
- The depth of sowing is around 1-2 centimeters.

4. Water Management:
- After sowing, the nursery is irrigated with water to keep the soil moist.
- Excessive water should be avoided to prevent seed rot or fungal diseases.
- The water level is maintained at around 2-3 centimeters throughout the nursery.

5. Care and Maintenance:
- Weeding is an important aspect of the Dapog method. Weeds compete with rice seedlings for nutrients and sunlight, so regular weeding is necessary.
- Pests and diseases should be monitored and appropriate measures taken to control them.
- Fertilizers can be applied to the nursery if necessary, following recommended guidelines.

6. Transplanting:
- After about 25-30 days, when the seedlings have grown to a suitable size (around 10-15 centimeters), they are ready for transplanting.
- The seedlings are carefully uprooted from the nursery and transplanted to the main field.

Overall, the Dapog method of rice nursery is an effective technique for raising healthy rice seedlings before transplanting them to the main field. It helps to ensure better crop establishment and higher yields, contributing to improved rice production in the Philippines.

Jhum cultivation in the North-Eastern State of India

Jhum cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture or shifting cultivation, is a traditional method of farming practiced in the North-Eastern states of India. It involves clearing a patch of forest land, burning the vegetation, and then cultivating crops on the fertile ash-enriched soil. This process is repeated in a cyclical manner as the soil fertility diminishes, and new patches of land are cleared for cultivation.

Statement 1: Jhum cultivation is adopted in the North-Eastern State of India.

The first statement is correct. Jhum cultivation is primarily practiced in the North-Eastern states of India, including states like Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. These states have hilly terrains with dense forests, and the indigenous communities living in these regions have traditionally relied on jhum cultivation for their sustenance.

Statement 2: Jhum cultivation is a process of afforestation.

The second statement is incorrect. Jhum cultivation is not a process of afforestation but rather a method of shifting cultivation. It involves the temporary clearance of forest land for agricultural purposes. The cycle of jhum cultivation includes both the clearing of forest land and the regrowth of vegetation after cultivation is complete. However, due to the rapid population growth and increased agricultural activities, the cycle of jhum cultivation has been shortened in recent years, leading to deforestation and soil degradation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the correct codes for the given statements are:

a) 1 only

Statement 1 is correct as jhum cultivation is indeed practiced in the North-Eastern states of India. However, statement 2 is incorrect as jhum cultivation is not a process of afforestation, but rather a form of shifting cultivation that involves temporary forest clearance for agriculture.

• In India, Jute (corchorus spp) is produced in West Bengal (Ist rank}, Bihar and Assam mainly. Jute grows well in loamy soils under hot and humid conditions-as ideal climatic condition.
• Generally, Maize/Moong/Urd (spring season)- Jute-Rice crop rotation is followed, while Jute rice-wheat rotation is followed on less amount.

The factors responsible for the decrease of per capita holding of cultivated land in India are

• Rural forestry (also known as community forestry) aims to raise the trees on community land and privately owned land as in farm forestry.
• Farm forestry encouraged individual farmers to plant trees on their farmland to meet the domestic needs of the family. All these schemes are taken up under the social forestry programme.

Red rot disease is caused by fungus and sugarcane is affected by it.

Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture, is a traditional agricultural practice that involves clearing a plot of land, burning the vegetation, and then planting crops. After a few years of cultivation, the land is left to fallow and regenerate before being used again. The chief characteristics of shifting cultivation are:

1. High dependence on manual labour
Shifting cultivation is highly labour-intensive, as it involves clearing the land by hand and planting crops without the aid of machines. The entire process, from clearing the land to harvesting the crops, is performed manually by the farmers and their families.

2. Low level of technology
Shifting cultivation is a low-tech agricultural practice, as it does not require modern machinery or advanced farming techniques. Farmers rely on their traditional knowledge and skills to cultivate the land and produce crops.

3. Utilization of poor soils through fallowing
Shifting cultivation is often practiced on poor soils that are unsuitable for continuous cropping. By using fallow periods, farmers allow the soil to recover and regenerate, which helps to maintain soil fertility and prevent soil erosion.

4. Use of chemical fertilizers
Shifting cultivation does not involve the use of chemical fertilizers, as farmers rely on natural soil fertility and the nutrients provided by the vegetation that is burned and incorporated into the soil. However, some farmers may use small amounts of chemical fertilizers to enhance crop yields.

In conclusion, shifting cultivation is a traditional agricultural practice that is characterized by high labour intensity, low levels of technology, the utilization of poor soils through fallowing, and minimal use of chemical fertilizers. Although it has been criticized for its environmental impact, shifting cultivation remains an important source of livelihood for many rural communities in developing countries.

• In agriculture, multiple cropping is the practice of growing two or more crops in the same piece of land during a single growing season. It is a form of polyculture. It can take the form of double-cropping, in which a second crop is planted after the first has been harvested, or relay cropping, in which the second crop is started amidst the first crop before it has been harvested.
• A related practice, companion planting, is sometimes used in gardening and intensive cultivation of vegetables and fruits. One example of multi-cropping is tomatoes + onions + marigold; the marigolds repel some tomato pests.

Subsistence farming and the crops grown:

Subsistence farming is a type of farming where the farmer grows crops primarily for the consumption of their own family or community, rather than for commercial purposes. It is characterized by small-scale agricultural practices, minimal use of modern technology, and limited surplus production. In subsistence farming, the main goal is to produce enough food to meet the immediate needs of the household.

The crops grown mostly under subsistence farming:

Among the given options, the crops that are grown mostly under subsistence farming are Millets and Rice. Let's understand why these are the preferred crops for subsistence farming:

1. Millets:
- Millets are small-seeded grains that are highly suitable for subsistence farming due to their resilience and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. They can be grown in areas with low rainfall and poor soil fertility.
- Millets such as pearl millet, foxtail millet, and finger millet are staple food crops in many parts of India and Africa, where subsistence farming is prevalent.
- These crops require minimal inputs in terms of irrigation, fertilizers, and pesticides, making them cost-effective for small-scale farmers.
- Millets are highly nutritious and provide essential nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an important food source for subsistence farmers.

2. Rice:
- Rice is a major staple crop in many parts of Asia, particularly in countries like India, China, and Indonesia. It is also a primary crop for subsistence farming in these regions.
- Rice cultivation requires a significant amount of water, making it suitable for areas with abundant rainfall or access to irrigation facilities.
- It is a high-calorie food crop and provides a good source of carbohydrates, which is crucial for subsistence farmers who rely on their own produce for sustenance.
- Rice can be stored for a longer duration, allowing subsistence farmers to have a steady food supply throughout the year.

In conclusion:

Millets and rice are the crops that are predominantly grown under subsistence farming. These crops are well-suited for small-scale farmers due to their resilience, adaptability, nutritional value, and relatively low input requirements. They play a vital role in ensuring food security and sustenance for subsistence farming communities.

Food Crops

Rice
Rice is a staple food crop that is widely consumed worldwide, especially in Asia. It is a primary source of carbohydrates for a large portion of the global population.

Maize
Maize, also known as corn, is another important food crop that is widely cultivated for its edible kernels. It is used in a variety of food products and animal feed.

Barley
Barley is a cereal grain that is primarily used for animal feed, malting, and in the production of certain alcoholic beverages. While barley can be consumed by humans in the form of barley flour or pearl barley, it is not as commonly consumed as rice or maize.

Tea
Tea is not a food crop in the traditional sense. It is a beverage that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. While tea is widely consumed around the world, it is not considered a staple food crop like rice, maize, or barley.

Avoidance of flood and drought-prone areas for agriculture would not be sustainable in this respect.

Statement 1: In India, natural rubber is produced in southern India only.
Statement 2: Among the coffee-growing states of India, the lowest average yield per hectare of plucked coffee is in Kerala.

To determine the correctness of the given statements, let's evaluate each one separately:

Statement 1: In India, natural rubber is produced in southern India only.
This statement is incorrect. While it is true that southern India is a major producer of natural rubber, it is not the only region where rubber is produced in India. Natural rubber is also produced in northeastern states like Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya. In fact, Kerala, which is located in southern India, is the largest producer of natural rubber in the country. Therefore, statement 1 is false.

Statement 2: Among the coffee-growing states of India, the lowest average yield per hectare of plucked coffee is in Kerala.
This statement is correct. Kerala is one of the major coffee-growing states in India, along with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. However, Kerala has the lowest average yield per hectare of plucked coffee among these states. This is primarily due to the small landholdings of coffee plantations in Kerala, which often results in inefficient farming practices and lower productivity. Therefore, statement 2 is true.

In conclusion, among the given statements, statement 2 is correct while statement 1 is incorrect. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' - 1 only.

Methods for Soil Conservation in Hilly Regions

In hilly regions, soil erosion is a major concern due to the steep slopes and heavy rainfall. To prevent soil erosion and conserve soil in these areas, certain methods are employed. Let's discuss the suitability of the given methods for soil conservation in hilly regions:

1. Terracing and Contour Bunding:
Terracing involves creating flat areas on the slopes by constructing horizontal steps or terraces. This method helps to slow down the flow of water and prevents soil erosion. Contour bunding, on the other hand, involves constructing barriers along the contour lines of the slopes to retain water and prevent erosion.

Both terracing and contour bunding are highly suitable for soil conservation in hilly regions. These methods effectively reduce the speed of water runoff, allowing it to infiltrate into the soil and reducing erosion. Moreover, the terraces and bunds help to retain moisture in the soil, promoting better plant growth.

2. Shifting Cultivation:
Shifting cultivation, also known as slash and burn agriculture, involves clearing a patch of land, burning the vegetation, and cultivating crops for a few years before moving to a new area. While this method may have been traditionally practiced in hilly regions, it is not suitable for soil conservation.

Shifting cultivation leads to deforestation, which exposes the soil to erosion. The burnt vegetation does not provide sufficient cover to protect the soil from heavy rainfall. Additionally, the short cultivation periods do not allow for the development of stable soil structure and fertility. Therefore, shifting cultivation is not a suitable method for soil conservation in hilly regions.

3. Contour Ploughing:
Contour ploughing involves ploughing along the contour lines of the slopes instead of ploughing up and down the slope. This method helps to reduce the speed of water runoff and prevent soil erosion.

Contour ploughing is suitable for soil conservation in hilly regions as it helps to slow down the flow of water and encourages water infiltration into the soil. By ploughing along the contour lines, the risk of soil erosion on steep slopes is minimized, and the soil structure remains intact.

Conclusion:
From the given methods, terracing and contour bunding (1) and contour ploughing (3) are suitable for soil conservation in hilly regions. These methods effectively control soil erosion, retain moisture, and promote better plant growth. Shifting cultivation (2) is not suitable as it leads to deforestation and soil degradation.

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  Temperature: 21°C to 29°C is ideal for the production of tea. High temperature is required in summer. The lowest temperature for the growth of tea is 16°C.

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  Rainfall: 150-250 cm of rainfall is required for tea cultivation.
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  Soil: Tea shrubs require fertile mountain soil mixed with lime and iron. The soil should be rich in humus.
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  Land: Tea cultivation needs well-drained land. Stagnation of water is not good for tea plants. Heavy rainfall but no stagnancy of water, such mountain slopes are good for tea cultivation.

Monoculture is a distinct characteristic of commercial grain farming. Monoculture is the agricultural practise of producing or growing a single crop or plant species over a wide area and for a large number of consecutive years.

Tea is the major cash crop.

Climatic Suitability for Orchids
Arunachal Pradesh is recognized for its favorable climatic conditions that are ideal for orchid cultivation. Here’s why it stands out:
1. Diverse Climate
- Arunachal Pradesh has a varied climate ranging from subtropical in the valleys to temperate and alpine in the higher altitudes.
- This climatic diversity supports a wide range of orchid species, which thrive in different temperature and humidity levels.
2. Rich Biodiversity
- The state is part of the Eastern Himalayas, a biodiversity hotspot.
- It is home to numerous native orchid species, making it an optimal location for both cultivation and conservation.
3. Favorable Soil Conditions
- The soil in Arunachal Pradesh is generally rich in organic matter and nutrients, crucial for healthy orchid growth.
- Well-drained soils, typical in hilly terrains, help prevent root rot, enhancing production efficiency.
4. Low Production Costs
- The local climate allows for year-round cultivation, reducing the need for artificial climate control, which can be expensive.
- Availability of local resources and labor can also lower production costs significantly.
5. Export Potential
- With proper agricultural practices and quality control, the state can develop an export-oriented industry for orchids.
- The global demand for exotic orchids presents a significant opportunity for economic growth.
In summary, Arunachal Pradesh's climatic advantages, rich biodiversity, and favorable soil conditions make it the most suitable state among the options for cultivating a variety of orchids economically and sustainably.

The total geographical area of Gujarat is 19,602,400 hectares, of which crops take up 10,630,700 hectares. The three main sources of growth in Gujarat’s agriculture are from cotton production, the rapid growth of high- value foods such as livestock, fruits and vegetables, and wheat.

Mixed farming is an agrarian system that mixes arable farming with the raising of livestock. When on a farm along with crop production, some other agriculture-based practice like poultry, dairy farming or beekeeping etc. is adopted then this is known as mixed farming.

Organic farming is an eco-friendly agriculture practice that promotes the sustainable use of natural resources and the preservation of the environment. It involves avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and instead focuses on using natural methods to enhance soil fertility, control pests and diseases, and promote biodiversity.

Advantages of Organic Farming:
1. Environmental Benefits: Organic farming practices prioritize the conservation and protection of soil, water, and air quality. By avoiding the use of synthetic inputs, organic farmers prevent the contamination of groundwater and reduce the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. They also promote the use of renewable resources and minimize the carbon footprint associated with agriculture.

2. Improved Soil Health: Organic farming relies on practices such as crop rotation, composting, and the use of organic manures to enhance soil fertility. These practices promote the development of a healthy soil ecosystem, with increased microbial activity, improved nutrient availability, and better water retention. Organic soils also have higher organic matter content, which helps in carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change.

3. Biodiversity Conservation: Organic farming encourages the conservation of natural habitats, which in turn supports a diverse range of plant and animal species. Organic farms often have higher levels of biodiversity, including beneficial insects, birds, and pollinators, due to the absence of chemical pesticides and the presence of diverse crop rotations and hedgerows.

4. Health Benefits: Organic farming aims to produce food that is free from synthetic chemicals, hormones, antibiotics, and GMOs. Organic produce is considered to be healthier as it has higher levels of beneficial nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also reduces the risk of exposure to pesticide residues, which can have negative effects on human health.

5. Sustainable and Economic Viability: Organic farming promotes the long-term sustainability of agricultural systems by reducing dependence on external inputs and improving the resilience of farming communities. Organic farmers often adopt practices that enhance resource efficiency, reduce waste, and increase profitability.

In conclusion, organic farming is an eco-friendly agriculture practice that promotes environmental sustainability, soil health, biodiversity conservation, and human health. It is a holistic approach to farming that emphasizes the use of natural resources and the protection of the environment, making it the most suitable option among the given choices.