All questions of Agriculture for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Right ans is a

Alfalfa is cultivated as an important forage crop.

Assertion (A): China is a leading producer of Rice but does not export rice.
Reason (R): Chinese rice is of inferior quality and there is no demand for it in the international market.

The correct answer is option 'C', which means Assertion (A) is true but Reason (R) is false.

Explanation:

China as a leading producer of rice:
China is indeed one of the world's leading producers of rice. It has a long history of rice cultivation and is known for its vast rice fields, diverse rice varieties, and advanced farming techniques. Rice is a staple food in China, and the country has been able to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production due to its large agricultural sector and favorable climatic conditions for rice cultivation.

China's rice exports:
Contrary to the assertion, China does export rice, although its export volume is relatively small compared to its production. China exports rice to various countries, including neighboring countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. However, China's rice exports are limited due to several factors such as domestic demand, government policies, and competition from other major rice-exporting countries.

Quality of Chinese rice:
Chinese rice is not of inferior quality. China produces a wide range of rice varieties, including both long-grain and short-grain rice, which are valued for their distinct flavors, textures, and cooking properties. Some Chinese rice varieties, such as Jasmine rice and Glutinous rice, are highly sought after in the international market for their unique characteristics.

Demand for Chinese rice in the international market:
There is indeed a demand for Chinese rice in the international market. Chinese rice is known for its quality and is exported to meet the demand from various countries. The demand for Chinese rice is influenced by factors such as price competitiveness, trade policies, and consumer preferences in different regions. While China faces competition from other major rice-exporting countries like India, Thailand, and Vietnam, it still manages to export rice to meet the demand of specific markets.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Assertion (A) is true as China is a leading producer of rice. However, Reason (R) is false as Chinese rice is not of inferior quality, and there is indeed a demand for it in the international market.

Countries in the descending order of their wheat production

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

International Trade in Rice

Rice is a staple crop consumed by a large portion of the global population. It is a key food source, particularly in Asia where it is a dietary staple for many countries. Despite its widespread consumption, the international trade in rice is relatively low compared to its total production. This can be attributed to several factors.

1. Self-sufficiency and domestic consumption

- Rice is predominantly grown and consumed within the same country, especially in Asia. Many rice-producing countries prioritize domestic consumption and self-sufficiency in meeting their population's food needs. They often implement policies and measures to ensure an adequate supply of rice for their citizens.
- As a result, the majority of rice production is consumed domestically rather than being exported. This reduces the quantity available for international trade.

2. Government policies and regulations

- Many countries impose restrictions and regulations on rice exports to maintain stability in domestic markets and ensure food security. These policies can include export bans, quotas, or high export taxes, which discourage or limit the amount of rice available for international trade.
- Governments may also provide subsidies and incentives to support local rice production and protect domestic farmers. Such measures further reduce the amount of rice available for export.

3. Variations in consumer preferences and quality standards

- Rice varieties, qualities, and preparation methods can vary significantly across different regions and cultures. Consumer preferences for specific types of rice may limit the demand for certain varieties in the international market.
- Additionally, some countries have stringent quality standards and phytosanitary regulations for imported rice. Meeting these standards can be challenging for many rice-producing countries, limiting their ability to access international markets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the international trade in rice is relatively low compared to its total production due to factors such as self-sufficiency and domestic consumption priorities, government policies and regulations, and variations in consumer preferences and quality standards. These factors contribute to the limited quantity of rice available for export, making rice a crop with low international trade in comparison to its total produce.

The leading wool producing country in the world is Australia.

Australia is known for its vast sheep population, making it the leading wool producing country in the world. The country's unique climate and geography provide favorable conditions for sheep farming and wool production. Let's delve into the reasons why Australia holds this distinction:

1. Sheep Population:
- Australia has a large and thriving sheep population, with millions of sheep spread across its vast landscapes.
- The country has a long history of sheep farming, and the industry has been a significant part of its economy for decades.

2. Favorable Climate:
- Australia's climate is well-suited for sheep farming and wool production.
- The country experiences a wide range of climates, from tropical to temperate, allowing for different breeds of sheep to thrive in various regions.
- These diverse climates provide opportunities for wool production throughout the country.

3. Extensive Grazing Land:
- Australia has abundant grazing land, which is essential for sheep farming.
- The country's vast landscapes provide ample space for sheep to roam and graze, ensuring their health and well-being.
- The availability of extensive grazing land also allows for large-scale sheep farming operations, contributing to the high wool production levels.

4. High-Quality Wool:
- Australian wool is renowned for its quality and is in high demand globally.
- The sheep in Australia are bred to produce fine and high-yielding wool, which is prized for its softness, durability, and versatility.
- The wool produced in Australia undergoes rigorous testing and quality control measures to ensure its high standards are met.

5. Advanced Wool Industry:
- Australia has a well-developed and sophisticated wool industry.
- The country has invested heavily in research, technology, and innovation to improve wool production and processing.
- These advancements have led to increased efficiency, higher yields, and better quality wool.

Conclusion:
Australia's sheep population, favorable climate, extensive grazing land, high-quality wool, and advanced wool industry make it the leading wool producing country in the world. The country's commitment to the sheep farming industry has resulted in a thriving wool sector, contributing significantly to its economy and global wool markets.

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.

India has the largest cattle inventory in the world.

A cash crop is an agricultural crop which is grown for sale to return a profit. It is typically purchased by parties separate from a farm.

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

Argentina’s wheat area is crescent shaped, Argentine wheat is of good quality and is harvested in November, December and January.

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.

Peanuts are the main crop of Gambia. The Gambia has no important mineral or other natural resources and has a limited agricultural base. About 75% of the population depends on crops and livestock for its livelihood. Small- scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.