All questions of Agriculture for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

General Factors Affecting Plant Growth
There are in general four primary factors affecting plant growth, sunlight, water, temperature and nutrients, including CO2, nitrogen, phosphorus and others [11]. Three principal characteristics of sunlight that affect plant growth are quantity, quality and duration [12].

India
India is the country with the largest cattle population in the world. Below are some key points explaining why India has the largest cattle population:
Agricultural Economy
- India has a predominantly agrarian economy, with a large population dependent on agriculture for their livelihood.
- Cattle play a crucial role in Indian agriculture, being used for plowing fields, transporting goods, and providing milk and dairy products.
Cultural Significance
- Cattle are considered sacred in Hinduism, the dominant religion in India.
- The reverence for cows has led to the protection and proliferation of cattle in the country.
Diversity of Breeds
- India is home to a wide variety of cattle breeds, adapted to different climatic conditions and purposes.
- Breeds like Gir, Sahiwal, and Red Sindhi are well-known for their milk production, while Ongole and Kankrej are used for agricultural work.
Milk Production
- India is the largest milk producer in the world, with a significant contribution from its cattle population.
- Cattle in India provide milk for domestic consumption as well as for the dairy industry.
Growth in Population
- The cattle population in India has been steadily increasing due to various government initiatives and programs aimed at improving livestock rearing.
- Efforts to enhance cattle productivity and health have also contributed to the growth in population.
In conclusion, India's large cattle population can be attributed to its agricultural economy, cultural significance of cattle, diversity of breeds, milk production, and growth initiatives.

Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture, is a traditional agricultural practice in which a plot of land is cleared, cultivated for a few years, and then abandoned for a period of time to allow the land to regenerate. Different regions have different names for this practice, depending on their local language and culture. In this question, we are asked to identify the incorrect match between the type of shifting cultivation and the country it is associated with. Let's examine each option:

a) Ladang – Indonesia:
Ladang is the term used in Indonesia to refer to shifting cultivation. This is a correct match as Indonesia has a long history of practicing shifting cultivation.

b) Ray – Vietnam:
Ray is the term used in Vietnam to refer to shifting cultivation. This is also a correct match as shifting cultivation is commonly practiced in Vietnam.

c) Milpa – Mexico:
Milpa is the term used in Mexico to refer to shifting cultivation. This is another correct match as shifting cultivation has been an integral part of traditional agriculture in Mexico for centuries.

d) Tamrai – Brazil:
Tamrai is not the correct term used in Brazil to refer to shifting cultivation. The correct term used in Brazil is "Roça" or "Roca". Therefore, the match between Tamrai and Brazil is incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option 'D' - Tamrai is not the correct term used in Brazil to refer to shifting cultivation.

The ‘Wheat Crescent’ refers to a geographical region that is known for its significant wheat production. The correct answer to this question is option 'B', Argentina.

Geographical Location:
The Wheat Crescent is located in Argentina, which is a country in South America. This region is situated in the central part of Argentina, spanning across the provinces of Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and Santa Fe.

Climate and Soil:
The Wheat Crescent has a favorable climate and soil conditions for wheat cultivation. The region experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. The average annual rainfall is sufficient for crop growth, and the fertile soil in this area is well-suited for wheat production.

Wheat Production:
Argentina is one of the largest wheat producers in the world, and the Wheat Crescent plays a crucial role in this production. The region accounts for a significant portion of Argentina's total wheat output. Wheat cultivation in the Wheat Crescent is highly mechanized and utilizes modern farming techniques, resulting in high yields.

Importance:
The Wheat Crescent in Argentina is of great importance for both domestic consumption and international trade. The country is a major exporter of wheat, and the Wheat Crescent contributes significantly to fulfilling the global demand for this staple crop. The region's wheat production also plays a vital role in ensuring food security within Argentina.

Other Crops:
Apart from wheat, the Wheat Crescent in Argentina is also known for the cultivation of other crops such as corn, soybeans, and sunflowers. These crops are often grown in rotation with wheat, contributing to the overall agricultural productivity of the region.

Economic Impact:
The Wheat Crescent's agricultural activities, including wheat production, have a significant economic impact on Argentina. The sector provides employment opportunities for rural communities and contributes to the country's GDP. The revenue generated from wheat exports further strengthens Argentina's economy.

In conclusion, the Wheat Crescent is a region in Argentina known for its high-quality wheat production. The favorable climate, fertile soil, and modern farming techniques make this region a significant contributor to Argentina's wheat industry and global wheat trade.

For Rice the international trade is low as compared to total produce

Introduction:
Peanuts are the main crop of Gambia.

Reasoning:
- Peanuts are commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Gambia is located in West Africa, a region known for its peanut cultivation.
- The warm climate and rich soil in Gambia provide ideal conditions for growing peanuts.

Comparison with other options:
- Georgia is known for its peaches and pecans.
- Ghana is known for its cocoa production.
- Guatemala is known for its coffee production.

Conclusion:
Therefore, the main crop of Gambia is peanuts due to its favorable climate and agricultural conditions.

Wheat Production in Descending Order:

To arrange the following countries in descending order of their wheat production, let's analyze the wheat production statistics of each country:

1. China: China is the largest producer of wheat in the world. It has consistently been the top wheat producer for several years.

2. India: India is the second-largest producer of wheat globally. It has significantly increased its wheat production over the years, but it still falls behind China in terms of production volume.

3. Russia: Russia is the third-largest producer of wheat in the world. It has experienced a remarkable increase in wheat production in recent years, becoming a major player in the global wheat market.

4. U.S.A.: The United States is one of the top wheat producers globally. While it has a substantial wheat production, it ranks behind China, India, and Russia in terms of volume.

Therefore, the countries arranged in descending order of their wheat production are as follows:

1. China
2. India
3. U.S.A.
4. Russia

Hence, the correct answer is option B (1, 2, 4, 3).

Alfalfa is cultivated as an important forage crop.

Shifting cultivation is an agricultural system in which plots of land are cultivated temporarily, then abandoned and allowed to revert to their natural vegetation while the cultivator moves to another plot.

Plantation agriculture is an export oriented specialised farming method. Where emphasis is given to raise a single crop-specially meant for export to the overseas countries. It is practical mainly in tropical regions.

Introduction:

Argan oil is a valuable and highly sought-after oil obtained from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa). It is known for its numerous health and cosmetic benefits and is widely used in the beauty and skincare industry. The production of Argan oil is primarily concentrated in one country, which is Morocco.

The largest producer of Argan oil:

1. Morocco:
Morocco is the largest producer of Argan oil in the world. The argan tree is native to Morocco and is found predominantly in the southwestern parts of the country. The production of Argan oil in Morocco is deeply rooted in the local culture and has been a traditional practice for centuries.

Reasons for Morocco's dominance:
There are several reasons why Morocco is the largest producer of Argan oil:

1. Geographical Advantage: The argan tree thrives in the semi-arid regions of southwestern Morocco, where the climate, soil composition, and rainfall patterns are ideal for its growth. The region's unique combination of hot summers, mild winters, and low rainfall creates the perfect conditions for the argan tree to flourish.

2. Cultural Significance: The production of Argan oil holds immense cultural and economic importance for the local Berber communities in Morocco. The women of these communities have been traditionally involved in the labor-intensive process of extracting oil from the argan kernels. This has provided them with a source of income and empowerment.

3. Conservation Efforts: The Moroccan government and various non-governmental organizations have implemented conservation efforts to protect the argan tree and its ecosystem. These initiatives have helped in preserving the argan forests and ensuring sustainable production of Argan oil.

4. International Demand: The high-quality and versatile nature of Moroccan Argan oil have made it highly sought-after in international markets. It is used in various industries, including cosmetics, skincare, and culinary. The increasing global demand has further encouraged the production of Argan oil in Morocco.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Morocco is the largest producer of Argan oil due to its favorable geographical conditions, cultural significance, conservation efforts, and growing international demand. The production of Argan oil has not only provided economic opportunities to the local communities but has also contributed to the preservation of a unique and valuable ecosystem.

The correct answer is option 'C', which means that both sugarcane in Malaysia and coffee in Brazil provide immediate cash to the farmers.

Explanation:
1. Tea in Assam:
Tea is a monoculture crop grown in Assam, India. While it is a major cash crop, it does not provide immediate cash to the farmers. The tea leaves need to be harvested, processed, and then sold, which takes time. Therefore, tea in Assam does not fulfill the criteria of providing immediate cash to the farmers.

2. Rubber in Africa:
Rubber is another monoculture crop grown in various countries in Africa. Similar to tea, rubber does not provide immediate cash to the farmers. The rubber trees need to mature and be tapped for latex, which is then processed into rubber sheets. This process takes time, and the farmers have to wait for the latex to be processed and sold before they receive cash.

3. Sugarcane in Malaysia:
Sugarcane is a widely cultivated monoculture crop in Malaysia. It is known for providing immediate cash to the farmers. Once the sugarcane is harvested, it is taken to sugar mills where it is crushed to extract the juice. The juice is then processed to obtain sugar, which is sold in the market. The farmers receive immediate cash for their sugarcane upon selling it to the sugar mills.

4. Coffee in Brazil:
Brazil is one of the largest producers and exporters of coffee in the world. Coffee cultivation provides immediate cash to the farmers. The coffee cherries are harvested, processed, and then sold either as green coffee beans or roasted coffee. Farmers can sell their coffee crop immediately after processing, which allows them to receive cash without any significant delay.

In conclusion, while tea and rubber do not provide immediate cash to the farmers, sugarcane in Malaysia and coffee in Brazil fulfill the criteria and provide immediate cash to the farmers. Hence, the correct answer is option 'C', which includes sugarcane in Malaysia and coffee in Brazil.

Midlatitude grassland farming has very large farms, are mechanised and fall in the category of extensive cultivation. Grasslands are found all across the globe.

Introduction to Camphor
Camphor is a fragrant, crystalline substance that is widely used in medicinal products, cosmetics, and culinary applications. It is primarily known for its strong aroma and medicinal properties.
Source of Camphor
Camphor is derived from the wood of the camphor tree, scientifically known as Cinnamomum camphora. The extraction process primarily involves:

• Distillation: The camphor is obtained through steam distillation of the tree's wood and bark.
• Part of the Plant: The primary part of the plant from which camphor is extracted is the stem or wood, making option 'B' the correct answer.

Camphor Tree Characteristics

• Family: Camphor trees belong to the Lauraceae family.
• Native Regions: These trees are native to Asia, particularly in areas like China, Japan, and Taiwan.
• Height: They can grow up to 20-30 meters tall, with a large trunk and dense foliage.

Applications of Camphor

• Medicinal Uses: Camphor is known for its antiseptic properties and is used in ointments for muscle pain relief.
• Industrial Uses: It is also used in the production of plastics, and as a solvent in various chemical processes.
• Aromatherapy: The strong fragrance is employed in aromatherapy for its calming effects.

Conclusion
In summary, camphor is predominantly extracted from the stem or wood of the camphor tree, confirming that option 'B' is indeed the correct answer for the source of this valuable distillate.

The leading producer of natural rubber in the world is Thailand. In 2020, Thailand produced around 4.8 million metric tons of natural rubber, accounting for around 37% of the global natural rubber production. Other major producers of natural rubber include Indonesia, Vietnam, India, and Ivory Coast. The demand for natural rubber is high worldwide, and it is used in various industries, including automotive, construction, and healthcare. The top consumers of natural rubber are China, the United States, and India.

Kanat System of Irrigation in Iran
The Kanat system of irrigation is developed in Iran. This ancient irrigation system has been in use for centuries and is still used in various parts of the country.

Key Features of Kanat System:
- The Kanat system is a type of underground tunnel irrigation that taps into groundwater sources.
- It consists of a series of gently sloping underground tunnels that transport water from a higher elevation to the fields that need irrigation.

How the Kanat System Works:
- The system starts with a mother well or qanat shaft that is dug deep into the ground to reach the water table.
- From the mother well, a series of underground tunnels branch out to distribute water to various fields.
- The tunnels are designed to maintain a gentle slope so that water flows easily through them to irrigate the fields.

Benefits of Kanat System:
- The Kanat system is known for its efficiency in water distribution, as it minimizes water loss due to evaporation.
- It also helps in preventing soil erosion and salinization, making it a sustainable irrigation method.
- The system is well-suited for arid regions like Iran, where water conservation is crucial for agriculture.

Conclusion:
The Kanat system of irrigation in Iran is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations in harnessing water resources for agriculture. It continues to be a vital irrigation method in the region, showcasing the sustainable practices of the past that can be applied to modern-day challenges.

China is the world’s largest producer of rice, but it consumes nearly everything it grows and even imports some rice from Thailand and Vietnam to feed its 1.3 billion people.

The sugarcane plant thrives best in tropical hot sunny areas. The “ideal” climate for production of maximum sugar from sugarcane is characterized as: A long, warm growing season with a high incidence of solar radiation and adequate moisture (rainfall) - the plant uses from 148 to 300g of water to produce 1.0g of dry substance. That is the reason for the growth of sugarcane in the Gulf coast region.

Australia is the leading wool producing country in the world with 25% of global wool clip.

The correct answer to the question is option 'C', D. Whittlesey.

Explanation:
Agricultural regions are geographical areas with distinct characteristics and conditions that make them suitable for different types of agricultural activities. These regions are determined based on factors such as climate, soil conditions, topography, and water availability. The major agricultural regions of the world were first delineated by D. Whittlesey.

1. Introduction to D. Whittlesey:
D. Whittlesey refers to Derwent Whittlesey, an American geographer who made significant contributions to the field of agricultural geography. He conducted extensive research and analysis to identify and classify the major agricultural regions of the world.

2. Importance of Agricultural Regions:
Understanding agricultural regions is crucial for various reasons:
- It helps in identifying the type of crops or livestock that can be grown or raised in a particular region.
- It aids in understanding patterns of agricultural production and distribution.
- It assists in analyzing the impact of environmental factors on agricultural practices.
- It provides insight into the relationship between agriculture and economic development.

3. Delineation of Agricultural Regions:
D. Whittlesey used a comprehensive approach to delineate the major agricultural regions of the world. He considered several factors, including climate, soil fertility, topography, and water availability.

4. Whittlesey's Classification:
Whittlesey classified the major agricultural regions into eleven categories:
1. Intensive subsistence agriculture
2. Plantation agriculture
3. Mixed farming
4. Mediterranean agriculture
5. Commercial grain farming
6. Livestock ranching
7. Commercial gardening and fruit farming
8. Dairy farming
9. Grain farming
10. Shifting cultivation
11. Pastoral nomadism

5. Influence and Legacy:
D. Whittlesey's classification of agricultural regions has had a lasting impact on the field of agricultural geography. His work provided a framework for understanding the diversity of agricultural practices across the globe. Researchers and policymakers continue to use Whittlesey's classification system as a basis for studying agricultural regions and formulating agricultural policies.

In conclusion, D. Whittlesey was responsible for first delineating the major agricultural regions of the world. His classification system has been widely adopted and serves as a foundational framework for understanding agricultural practices and patterns globally.

The region that is often referred to as the "bread basket of the world" is the Temperate grassland region. This region is known for its fertile soil, favorable climate, and extensive agricultural activity, making it a major producer of grains and other food crops. Let's explore the reasons behind this designation in more detail.

1. Fertile Soil:
- The temperate grasslands, also known as prairies or steppes, have deep and fertile soil.
- This soil is rich in nutrients and organic matter, making it highly productive for agriculture.
- The accumulation of organic matter over centuries has created a thick layer of topsoil that is ideal for cultivating crops.

2. Favorable Climate:
- Temperate grasslands are characterized by moderate temperatures, with warm summers and cold winters.
- This climate pattern is conducive to the growth of various crops, including wheat, corn, barley, and oats.
- The temperature range allows for the cultivation of both cool-season and warm-season crops.

3. Sufficient Rainfall:
- While temperate grasslands receive less rainfall compared to other regions, they still receive enough precipitation to support agriculture.
- The rainfall is typically distributed throughout the year, with no distinct wet or dry seasons.
- This consistent moisture, combined with the fertile soil, provides ideal conditions for crop growth.

4. Agricultural Activity:
- The combination of fertile soil, favorable climate, and sufficient rainfall has led to extensive agricultural activity in temperate grassland regions.
- Farmers in these regions specialize in growing grains and other food crops on a large scale.
- The mechanization of agriculture, along with advanced farming techniques and technology, has further boosted productivity.

5. Global Food Production:
- Due to its high agricultural productivity, the temperate grassland region has become a significant contributor to global food production.
- It plays a crucial role in meeting the world's demand for staple crops such as wheat, corn, and barley.
- The surplus production from these regions is often exported to other parts of the world, earning them the title of the "bread basket of the world."

In conclusion, the temperate grassland region is called the bread basket of the world because of its fertile soil, favorable climate, sufficient rainfall, and extensive agricultural activity. These factors have made it a major producer of grains and other food crops, contributing significantly to global food production.

Among the following India has the largest arable land. The United States in the world has the largest arable land followed by India.

Chena cultivation is found in Sri Lanka. Chena Cultivation seconds only to paddy cultivation in the area. It provides fresh vegetables for the people in the area and transport the production to other parts of the country too.

World’s largest producer of sugarcane

The correct answer is option 'A' - Brazil.

Explanation:

1. Introduction:
Sugarcane is an important cash crop that is widely cultivated for its sugar content. It is a tall perennial grass that belongs to the grass family Poaceae. Sugarcane is primarily grown in tropical and subtropical regions due to its need for warm temperatures and abundant rainfall.

2. Brazil - The largest producer:
Brazil is the world's largest producer of sugarcane. It has a favorable climate and vast agricultural land, which makes it an ideal location for sugarcane cultivation. The country has been a major player in the global sugarcane market for many years.

3. Factors contributing to Brazil's success:
There are several factors that contribute to Brazil's position as the largest producer of sugarcane:

- Climate: Brazil has a tropical climate, which provides the necessary heat and rainfall for sugarcane cultivation. The country's long growing seasons and ample sunshine help in achieving high yields.

- Agricultural Land: Brazil has a vast agricultural land area, which allows for extensive cultivation of sugarcane. The fertile soils, especially in regions like Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais, provide optimal conditions for sugarcane growth.

- Technological Advancements: Brazil has made significant advancements in sugarcane cultivation techniques and technology. The country has invested in research and development to improve crop management, pest control, and harvesting methods. This has resulted in increased productivity and efficiency in sugarcane production.

- Ethanol Production: Brazil is a major producer of ethanol, which is derived from sugarcane. The country has been successful in promoting the use of ethanol as a biofuel, which has further boosted sugarcane cultivation.

- Export Market: Brazil exports a significant amount of sugarcane and its by-products, such as sugar and ethanol, to countries around the world. The country has a well-established export infrastructure and trade agreements, which support its position as the largest producer.

4. Other major producers:
While Brazil is the largest producer of sugarcane, it is important to note that other countries also have significant sugarcane production. Some of the other major producers include:

- China: China is the second-largest producer of sugarcane. The country has a large population and high domestic demand for sugar and sugarcane products.

- India: India is the third-largest producer of sugarcane. The country has a long history of sugarcane cultivation and is known for its traditional methods of processing sugarcane.

- Indonesia: Indonesia is also a major producer of sugarcane. The country has favorable climatic conditions and a strong agricultural sector.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Brazil is the world's largest producer of sugarcane due to its favorable climate, vast agricultural land, technological advancements, and strong export market. However, other countries like China, India, and Indonesia also have significant sugarcane production.

The largest producer of copper in the world is Chile.Copper exports represented 49 percent of the total value of exports.

In all the above three options primitive agriculture such as shifting cultivation or bush fallow type of cultivation is found.

Shifting cultivation practices in Amazon Basin.Nomadic herding practices in Mongolia. Livestock ranching belongs to Australia. Fishing and hunting belongs to the Tundra region.

India is the second largest rice-producing country in the world.

Largest producer of wheat in the world is China. Largest producer of milk in the world is India. Largest producer of sugarcane in the world is Brazil. Largest producer of maize in the world is the U.S.A.

Currently the largest producer of raw Jute in the world is India.

A properly managed tree responds to wounding by producing more latex for several years. Natural rubber is obtained from the latex of rubber trees.

Ladang is a form of shifting cultivation found in Malaysia, Milpa is associated with Mexico, Roca is associated with Brazil while Jhumming is associated with North East India.