All Exams  >   Humanities/Arts  >   Geography Practice Tests: CUET Preparation  >   All Questions

All questions of Primary Activities for Humanities/Arts Exam

What is an example of a crop that is dominated by intensive subsidence agriculture?
  • a)
    Maize
  • b)
    Paddy
  • c)
    Sugarcane
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Yadav answered
There are two types of the intensive subsistence agriculture. One is dominated by wet paddy and the other is dominated by crops other than paddy, e.g., wheat, pulses, maize, millets, sorghum, kaoling, soya-beans, tubers and vegetables.
1 Crore+ students have signed up on EduRev. Have you? Download the App

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Depending on the mode of occurrence and the nature of the ore, mining is of two types: surface and underground mining. The surface mining also known as open-cast mining is the easiest and the cheapest way of mining minerals that occur close to the surface. Overhead costs such as safety precautions and equipment are relatively low in this method. The output is both large and rapid. When the ore lies deep below the surface, underground mining method (shaft method) has to be used. In this method, vertical shafts have to be sunk, from where underground galleries radiate to reach the minerals. Minerals are extracted and transported to the surface through these passages. It requires specially designed lifts, drills, haulage vehicles, ventilation system for safety and efficient movement of people and material. This method is risky. Poisonous gases, fires, floods and caving in lead to fatal accidents. The developed economies are retreating from mining, processing and refining stages of production due to high labour costs, while the developing countries with large labour force and striving for higher standard of living are becoming more important. Several countries of Africa and few of south America and Asia have over fifty per cent of the earnings from minerals alone.
What is the other name of surface mining?
  • a)
    Close-cast mining
  • b)
    Open-cast mining
  • c)
    Loose-cast mining
  • d)
    Free-cast mining
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Open-cast mining is the other name of surface mining.

People located in icy and extremely hot climates survived on what?
  • a)
    Weaving
  • b)
    Hunting
  • c)
    Herding
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Explanation:

People living in icy and extremely hot climates had to adapt to their harsh environments in order to survive. One of the most important ways they did this was through hunting. Hunting provided them with food, clothing, and other resources necessary for survival. Let's explore this in more detail:

Hunting in Icy Climates:

In icy climates, such as the Arctic, people relied on hunting to survive. They hunted animals such as seals, walruses, caribou, and polar bears. These animals provided them with meat, fat, and hides, which they used for clothing, shelter, and other necessities. They also used animal bones and antlers to make tools and weapons.

Hunting in Hot Climates:

In extremely hot climates, such as the Sahara Desert, people also relied on hunting to survive. They hunted animals such as gazelles, antelopes, and ostriches. These animals provided them with meat, hides, and bones, which they used for food, clothing, and tools. They also gathered fruits, nuts, and other edible plants.

Conclusion:

In both icy and extremely hot climates, hunting was a crucial way for people to survive. By hunting and gathering, they were able to adapt to their harsh environments and find the resources they needed to survive. While other activities such as weaving and herding may have played a role in some societies, hunting was a universal necessity for survival in these extreme climates.

What is the name of the island on which nomadism is based?
  • a)
    Madagascar 
  • b)
    China
  • c)
    New Zealand
  • d)
    Mongolia​
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Pragati Bajaj answered
The Island on which Nomadism is based is Madagascar. Nomadism is the practice of moving from one place to another with no permanent settlement. Madagascar, an island nation located off the coast of Southeast Africa, has a long history of nomadic cultures.

Madagascar's nomadic cultures
Madagascar's first inhabitants, the Malagasy, were believed to have arrived on the island around 2000 years ago. They were nomadic people who relied on hunting and gathering for their sustenance. Later, the arrival of Arab and African traders and settlers brought agriculture and pastoralism to the island.

Madagascar's pastoralist communities
The arrival of pastoralist communities in Madagascar brought about a new form of nomadism. These communities were primarily made up of cattle herders who moved their herds from one grazing area to another. The Betsileo and Bara people are two examples of pastoralist communities in Madagascar.

Madagascar's current nomadic communities
Today, there are still nomadic communities in Madagascar, such as the Mikea people. The Mikea people are hunter-gatherers who live deep in the forests of southwestern Madagascar. They move from one area of the forest to another in search of food and resources.

In conclusion, Madagascar is the island on which nomadism is based, with a long history of nomadic cultures and current nomadic communities such as the Mikea people.

Pastoralism refers to:
  • a)
    crop cultivation
  • b)
    animal husbandry
  • c)
    hunting
  • d)
    None of the above.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Prashanth Das answered
Pastoralism is concerned with animal rearing. It is animal husbandry, in which herders raise the livestock for food, clothing, shelters, tools and transport.

Where did Spanish and Americans invest heavily in coconut and sugarcane plantations?
  • a)
    Sri Lanka
  • b)
    India
  • c)
    Malaysia
  • d)
    Philippines ​
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Jayant Mishra answered
Spain and the United States invested heavily in coconut and sugarcane plantations in the Philippines. The Philippines is an archipelago located in Southeast Asia that was colonized by Spain in the 16th century. During the Spanish colonial period, the Philippines became an important center for the production of coconut and sugarcane, and these crops were extensively cultivated on large plantations.
Spain and the United States were two of the major powers that invested in these plantations in the Philippines, and they played a significant role in the development of the country's agriculture and economy. Coconut and sugarcane were important exports for the Philippines, and they contributed significantly to the country's wealth and prosperity.
In addition to the Philippines, other countries in Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, also have significant coconut and sugarcane industries. However, Spain and the United States invested more heavily in the Philippines than in these other countries.

Primary activities are directly dependent on what?
  • a)
    Transport
  • b)
    Earnings
  • c)
    Ecosystem
  • d)
    Environment ​
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Primary activities are directly dependent on environment as these refer to
utilization of earth’s resources such as land,water,vegetation,building materials
and minerals.It includes ,hunting and gathering,pastoral
activities,fishing,forestry,agriculture,mining and quarrying. Primary sector refer to
that sector of the economy which uses natural resources to produce goods.
Primary sector dominates in underdeveloped countries.People engaged in primary activities are called red-collar workers due to the
outdoor nature of their work.

Hence, Primary activities are directly dependent on environment, proved above.
Hope it helps u.

The practice of movement of herders in search of pastures is known as:
  • a)
    Ranching
  • b)
    Herding
  • c)
    Transhumance
  • d)
    Pastoralism
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Amrita Dey answered
The process of migration from plain areas to pastures on mountains during summers and again from mountain pastures to plain areas during winters is known as transhumance. In mountain regions, such as Himalayas, Gujjars, Bakarwals, Gaddis and Bhotiyas migrate from plains to the mountains in summers and to the plains from the high altitude pastures in winters.

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Depending on the mode of occurrence and the nature of the ore, mining is of two types: surface and underground mining. The surface mining also known as open-cast mining is the easiest and the cheapest way of mining minerals that occur close to the surface. Overhead costs such as safety precautions and equipment are relatively low in this method. The output is both large and rapid. When the ore lies deep below the surface, underground mining method (shaft method) has to be used. In this method, vertical shafts have to be sunk, from where underground galleries radiate to reach the minerals. Minerals are extracted and transported to the surface through these passages. It requires specially designed lifts, drills, haulage vehicles, ventilation system for safety and efficient movement of people and material. This method is risky. Poisonous gases, fires, floods and caving in lead to fatal accidents. The developed economies are retreating from mining, processing and refining stages of production due to high labour costs, while the developing countries with large labour force and striving for higher standard of living are becoming more important. Several countries of Africa and few of south America and Asia have over fifty per cent of the earnings from minerals alone.
Which type of mining uses the method of excavating a vertical or near-vertical tunnel from the top down, where there is initially no access to the bottom?
  • a)
    Shaft mining
  • b)
    Cast mining
  • c)
    Surface mining
  • d)
    Underground mining
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Harsh Chawla answered
Shaft Mining
Shaft mining is a method of excavating a vertical or near-vertical tunnel from the top down, where there is initially no access to the bottom.

Explanation:
- Definition: Shaft mining involves the excavation of vertical tunnels to access mineral deposits deep below the surface.
- Process: Vertical shafts are sunk into the ground, and underground galleries radiate from these shafts to reach the minerals.
- Access: Initially, there is no access to the bottom of the tunnel, so miners have to use specialized equipment and techniques to reach the minerals.
- Equipment: Shaft mining requires lifts, drills, haulage vehicles, and ventilation systems for the safety and efficient movement of people and materials.
- Risk: This method is risky due to factors such as poisonous gases, fires, floods, and cave-ins, which can lead to fatal accidents.
- Application: Shaft mining is typically used when mineral deposits are located deep below the surface and cannot be accessed through surface mining methods.
- Importance: In countries with deep-lying mineral deposits, shaft mining is essential for extracting valuable resources and contributing to economic development.
In conclusion, shaft mining is a method that involves excavating vertical tunnels to access mineral deposits deep below the surface. It is a challenging and risky process but is necessary for extracting valuable minerals in certain geological conditions.

How many types of animals are reared in commercial livestock rearing?
  • a)
    Another
  • b)
    Same
  • c)
    One
  • d)
    Two
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

In commercial livestock, only one type of animal is reared. Nomads heavily rely on their animals for food, clothing, shelter, tools and transport.

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Each nomadic community occupies a well identified territory as a matter of tradition. Pastoral nomadism is associated with three important regions. The core region extends from the Atlantic shores of North Africa east wards across the Arabian Peninsula into Mongolia and Central China. The second region extends over the tundra region of Eurasia. In the southern hemisphere, there are small areas in South-west Africa and on the island of Madagascar.
Movement in search of pastures is undertaken either over vast horizontal distances or vertically from one elevation to another in the mountainous regions. The process of migration from plain areas to pastures on mountains during summers and again from mountain pastures to plain are as during winters is known as transhumance. In mountain regions, such as Himalayas, Gujjars, Bakarwals, Gaddis and Bhotiyas migrate from plains to the mountains in summers and to the plains from the high altitude pastures in winters. Similarly, in the tundra regions, the nomadic herders move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters.
Why each nomadic community occupies a well identified territory?
  • a)
    As a matter of tradition
  • b)
    As a matter of division
  • c)
    As a matter of enmity
  • d)
    As a matter of segregation
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Naina Sharma answered
As a matter of tradition nomadic community occupies a well identified territory.

Which one of the following is not a type of coal?
  • a)
    Anthracite
  • b)
    Haematite
  • c)
    Bituminous
  • d)
    Peat
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Avi Kapoor answered
Hematite is the mineral form of iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3), one of several iron oxides. The kinds of coal are peat, lignite, bituminous, and anthracite.

How many important regions is nomadism associated with?
  • a)
    Three
  • b)
    Two
  • c)
    Four
  • d)
    Five
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Divya Mishra answered
Nomadism is a way of life that involves constantly moving from one place to another in search of food, water, and pasture for livestock. It is associated with several important regions around the world.

Three Important Regions Associated with Nomadism are:

1. Central Asia:
Nomadism is an integral part of the culture and history of Central Asia, which includes countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The nomadic lifestyle of the region’s people is primarily based on raising livestock such as sheep, horses, and camels.

2. Sub-Saharan Africa:
Nomadism is also prevalent in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. People in this region are mostly pastoralists who move their herds of cattle, sheep, and goats in search of water and pasture.

3. Middle East:
Nomadism has been an important way of life in the Middle East for thousands of years. Bedouins, who are nomadic Arabs from the desert regions of the Arabian Peninsula, have traditionally relied on camel herding, trading, and raiding for their livelihoods.

Therefore, nomadism is associated with three important regions - Central Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East.

What is the most advanced and efficient type of rearing of milch animals?
  • a)
    Poultry
  • b)
    Milk
  • c)
    Dairy
  • d)
    Cows​
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Most Advanced and Efficient Type of Rearing of Milch Animals: Dairy Farming


  • Modern Technology: Dairy farming involves the use of advanced technologies such as automated milking machines, monitoring systems, and feed management software to optimize production.


  • Breeding Programs: Dairy farms often implement selective breeding programs to improve milk yield, quality, and overall health of the animals.


  • Nutritional Management: Dairy farmers carefully monitor the diet and nutrition of their animals to ensure optimal milk production and health.


  • Healthcare: Regular veterinary care and disease prevention programs are essential in dairy farming to maintain the health and well-being of the animals.


  • Environmental Sustainability: Many modern dairy farms focus on sustainable practices such as waste management, energy efficiency, and water conservation to reduce their environmental impact.


  • Economic Viability: Dairy farming is a profitable business when managed efficiently, with a focus on maximizing milk production while minimizing costs.

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Each nomadic community occupies a well identified territory as a matter of tradition. Pastoral nomadism is associated with three important regions. The core region extends from the Atlantic shores of North Africa east wards across the Arabian Peninsula into Mongolia and Central China. The second region extends over the tundra region of Eurasia. In the southern hemisphere, there are small areas in South-west Africa and on the island of Madagascar.
Movement in search of pastures is undertaken either over vast horizontal distances or vertically from one elevation to another in the mountainous regions. The process of migration from plain areas to pastures on mountains during summers and again from mountain pastures to plain are as during winters is known as transhumance. In mountain regions, such as Himalayas, Gujjars, Bakarwals, Gaddis and Bhotiyas migrate from plains to the mountains in summers and to the plains from the high altitude pastures in winters. Similarly, in the tundra regions, the nomadic herders move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters.
Where are Gaddi tribe found?
  • a)
    Madhya Pradesh
  • b)
    Himachal Pradesh
  • c)
    Uttarakhand
  • d)
    Uttar Pradesh
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Naina Sharma answered
Gaddis, a Scheduled Tribe of Himachal Pradesh, are found principally focused in Bharmauri of Chamba district, an area popularly called 'Gaderan' which means 'the home of the Gaddis'. Bharmour is additionally known as the abode of Gaddis.

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Each nomadic community occupies a well identified territory as a matter of tradition. Pastoral nomadism is associated with three important regions. The core region extends from the Atlantic shores of North Africa east wards across the Arabian Peninsula into Mongolia and Central China. The second region extends over the tundra region of Eurasia. In the southern hemisphere, there are small areas in South-west Africa and on the island of Madagascar.
Movement in search of pastures is undertaken either over vast horizontal distances or vertically from one elevation to another in the mountainous regions. The process of migration from plain areas to pastures on mountains during summers and again from mountain pastures to plain are as during winters is known as transhumance. In mountain regions, such as Himalayas, Gujjars, Bakarwals, Gaddis and Bhotiyas migrate from plains to the mountains in summers and to the plains from the high altitude pastures in winters. Similarly, in the tundra regions, the nomadic herders move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters.
In which region the nomadic herders move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters?
  • a)
    Taiga
  • b)
    Tundra
  • c)
    Equatorial
  • d)
    Polar
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Kiran Mehta answered
In the Tundra region the nomadic herders move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters.

Subsistence farming is mainly carried on for:
  • a)
    cash.
  • b)
    food.
  • c)
    trade.
  • d)
    scientific experiments.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Arnab Gupta answered
This is mainly practiced for food production. Subsistence agriculture is one in which the farming areas consume all, or nearly so, of the products locally grown.

The area of commercial live-stock rearing is
  • a)
    New Zealand.
  • b)
    India.
  • c)
    China.
  • d)
    Japan.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Uruguay and the United States of America are important countries where commercial livestock rearing is practised.

Where is jhum prevalent?
  • a)
    Subtropical
  • b)
    Tropical
  • c)
    Mediterranean
  • d)
    None​
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Jhum cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn cultivation, is prevalent in tropical regions of the world. Let's understand more about jhum cultivation and its geographical prevalence.

Jhum Cultivation

Jhum cultivation is a traditional form of agriculture practiced by many indigenous communities in the tropical regions of the world. It involves cutting and burning a patch of forest land to create a clearing for agriculture. The crops are then grown on the cleared land for a few years until the soil fertility declines, after which the land is left fallow for several years to allow for natural regeneration of the forest.

Geographical Prevalence

Jhum cultivation is prevalent in the following tropical regions of the world:

1. Northeast India: Jhum cultivation is extensively practiced in the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.

2. Southeast Asia: Jhum cultivation is also practiced in parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.

3. Central America: The indigenous communities in Central America, particularly in Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, also practice jhum cultivation.

4. Africa: Jhum cultivation is practiced in some parts of Africa, including Cameroon, Congo, and Madagascar.

Conclusion

Jhum cultivation is prevalent in tropical regions of the world, where it is a vital source of livelihood for many indigenous communities. However, the practice has been criticized for its impact on the environment, including deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. As such, there have been efforts to promote sustainable alternatives to jhum cultivation, such as agroforestry and sustainable land management practices.

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Depending on the mode of occurrence and the nature of the ore, mining is of two types: surface and underground mining. The surface mining also known as open-cast mining is the easiest and the cheapest way of mining minerals that occur close to the surface. Overhead costs such as safety precautions and equipment are relatively low in this method. The output is both large and rapid. When the ore lies deep below the surface, underground mining method (shaft method) has to be used. In this method, vertical shafts have to be sunk, from where underground galleries radiate to reach the minerals. Minerals are extracted and transported to the surface through these passages. It requires specially designed lifts, drills, haulage vehicles, ventilation system for safety and efficient movement of people and material. This method is risky. Poisonous gases, fires, floods and caving in lead to fatal accidents. The developed economies are retreating from mining, processing and refining stages of production due to high labour costs, while the developing countries with large labour force and striving for higher standard of living are becoming more important. Several countries of Africa and few of south America and Asia have over fifty per cent of the earnings from minerals alone.
Why developed economies are retreating from mining, processing and refining stages of production?
  • a)
    Time consuming
  • b)
    Old and outdated method
  • c)
    High labour cost
  • d)
    None of the Above
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Developed economies are retreating from mining, processing and refining stages of production because of high labour cost.

Where do nomadic herders move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters?
  • a)
    Grasslands
  • b)
    Arctic
  • c)
    Boreal
  • d)
    Tundra ​
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Ankit Shah answered
Nomadic herders move from north to south in winters and from south to north in summers in the tundra region. The tundra is a vast, treeless region that is located in the northern hemisphere, mostly in the Arctic circle. The tundra is characterized by low temperatures, short growing seasons, and permafrost.

Reasons for Migration:
Herders in the tundra region move in search of food and water for their livestock. Due to the harsh conditions in the tundra, vegetation is scarce, and water is often frozen. Hence, herders need to move to areas where there is enough food and water for their livestock.

Summer Migration:
In the summer, the tundra region experiences a brief growing season when plants can grow and provide food for livestock. Herders move their livestock to these areas to graze and fatten them up for the winter.

Winter Migration:
In the winter, the tundra is covered in snow and ice, making it impossible for livestock to graze. Herders move their livestock to areas where they can find food and water. They also move to areas where their livestock can be protected from the harsh winter conditions.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, nomadic herders in the tundra region move from south to north in summers and from north to south in winters in search of food and water for their livestock. This migration is necessary for the survival of both the herders and their livestock in the harsh conditions of the tundra.

The second region extends over the tundra region of what?
  • a)
    America
  • b)
    Cuba
  • c)
    Oceania
  • d)
    Eurasia ​
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Ruchi Joshi answered
The Tundra Region of Eurasia

The second region mentioned in the question extends over the tundra region of Eurasia. Here is an explanation of what this means:

Tundra Region: The tundra is a biome characterized by low temperatures, short growing seasons, and permafrost (permanently frozen soil). This region is found in the far northern hemisphere, including parts of Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia, and Russia.

Eurasia: Eurasia is the combined landmass of Europe and Asia. It is the largest continent on Earth and is home to a wide variety of landscapes and biomes.

Extent of the Region: The question suggests that the second region extends over the tundra region of Eurasia, meaning that it includes parts of both Europe and Asia. This could refer to the entire tundra biome found in Eurasia or a specific portion of it.

Importance of the Tundra: The tundra region is an important part of the global ecosystem, as it provides habitat for many unique species of plants and animals. It also plays a key role in regulating the Earth's climate, as the permafrost stores large amounts of carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere.

Conclusion: In summary, the second region mentioned in the question extends over the tundra region of Eurasia, which is an important part of the global ecosystem and plays a key role in regulating the Earth's climate.

Direction: Read the case study given below and answer the questions that follow:
Depending on the mode of occurrence and the nature of the ore, mining is of two types: surface and underground mining. The surface mining also known as open-cast mining is the easiest and the cheapest way of mining minerals that occur close to the surface. Overhead costs such as safety precautions and equipment are relatively low in this method. The output is both large and rapid. When the ore lies deep below the surface, underground mining method (shaft method) has to be used. In this method, vertical shafts have to be sunk, from where underground galleries radiate to reach the minerals. Minerals are extracted and transported to the surface through these passages. It requires specially designed lifts, drills, haulage vehicles, ventilation system for safety and efficient movement of people and material. This method is risky. Poisonous gases, fires, floods and caving in lead to fatal accidents. The developed economies are retreating from mining, processing and refining stages of production due to high labour costs, while the developing countries with large labour force and striving for higher standard of living are becoming more important. Several countries of Africa and few of south America and Asia have over fifty per cent of the earnings from minerals alone.
Which type of mining is cheaper, can recover more of the resource, is safer and can use larger-scale mining equipment offering higher production rates.
  • a)
    Surface mining
  • b)
    Underground mining
  • c)
    Shaft mining
  • d)
    All of the Above
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Rajesh Gupta answered
Surface mining is cheaper, can recover more of the resource, is safer and can use larger-scale mining equipment offering higher production rates.

What type of cultivation is done in the tropics?
  • a)
    Adjusting
  • b)
    Fixed
  • c)
    Shifting
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aravind Chawla answered
In the tropics, shifting cultivation is commonly practiced. Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn agriculture or swidden agriculture, is a traditional method of farming that involves clearing a plot of land, cultivating it for a few years, and then abandoning it to allow the land to regenerate. This process is then repeated in a different area, creating a cycle of cultivation and fallow periods.

Explanation:

Shifting Cultivation:
- Shifting cultivation is a traditional agricultural system that has been practiced for centuries in the tropics.
- It involves clearing a small area of land by cutting down vegetation and burning it, which releases nutrients into the soil.
- The cleared land is then cultivated for a few years until the soil fertility decreases, and weeds and pests become problematic.
- After this period, the land is left fallow, allowing the vegetation to regrow and restore soil fertility.
- The process is then repeated in a different area, creating a rotational system of cultivation and fallow periods.

Advantages of Shifting Cultivation:
- Shifting cultivation allows farmers to utilize the fertile soil of the tropics without the need for expensive inputs such as fertilizers.
- It is well-suited to the tropical environment, where soils are often nutrient-poor and prone to leaching.
- The fallow periods allow the land to regenerate and restore its fertility naturally, reducing the need for external inputs.
- Shifting cultivation also provides opportunities for biodiversity conservation, as the fallow periods allow natural vegetation to recover and provide habitat for wildlife.

Challenges of Shifting Cultivation:
- However, shifting cultivation has faced criticism due to its environmental impact and perceived inefficiency.
- The practice of slash-and-burn can lead to deforestation and habitat loss if not properly managed.
- Additionally, as populations have increased and land availability has decreased, the length of fallow periods has often been shortened, leading to soil degradation and decreased agricultural productivity.
- Efforts have been made to promote alternative agricultural practices that are more sustainable and productive, such as agroforestry and terrace farming.

In conclusion, shifting cultivation is the type of cultivation commonly practiced in the tropics. It is a traditional agricultural system that involves clearing small areas of land, cultivating them for a few years, and then allowing them to regenerate naturally during fallow periods. While shifting cultivation has its advantages, it also faces challenges in terms of sustainability and productivity.

Who established cocoa and coffee plantations in west Africa?
  • a)
    Italian
  • b)
    Dutch
  • c)
    French
  • d)
    Spanish​
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Milan Das answered
Establishment of Cocoa and Coffee Plantations in West Africa by the French

Introduction:
West Africa is known for its production of cocoa and coffee, which has contributed significantly to the economic growth of the region. The establishment of cocoa and coffee plantations in West Africa was not a result of a single action but rather a series of events that occurred over time. In this response, we will discuss the establishment of cocoa and coffee plantations in West Africa by the French.

French Colonization of West Africa:
The French were one of the major European powers that colonized West Africa in the 19th century. They established their colonies in countries such as Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Ghana. The primary motive of the French was to exploit the resources of the region, including cocoa and coffee.

Establishment of Cocoa Plantations:
The French established cocoa plantations in Ivory Coast and Ghana in the early 20th century. They introduced improved varieties of cocoa trees and trained local farmers on modern cultivation methods. The French also provided financial support to the farmers to encourage them to grow cocoa. As a result, cocoa production increased significantly in the region.

Establishment of Coffee Plantations:
The French also established coffee plantations in Ivory Coast and Cameroon in the early 20th century. They introduced improved varieties of coffee plants and trained local farmers on modern cultivation methods. The French also provided financial support to the farmers to encourage them to grow coffee. As a result, coffee production increased significantly in the region.

Impact of Cocoa and Coffee Plantations:
The establishment of cocoa and coffee plantations had a significant impact on the economy of West Africa. The production of cocoa and coffee provided employment opportunities for local farmers and contributed to the growth of the region's economy. The cocoa and coffee industry also generated revenue for the French colonial government, which used the funds to finance its activities in the region.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the French played a significant role in the establishment of cocoa and coffee plantations in West Africa. Their efforts contributed to the growth of the cocoa and coffee industry in the region, which had a positive impact on the economy.

Chapter doubts & questions for Primary Activities - Geography Practice Tests: CUET Preparation 2024 is part of Humanities/Arts exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the Humanities/Arts exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for Humanities/Arts 2024 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

Chapter doubts & questions of Primary Activities - Geography Practice Tests: CUET Preparation in English & Hindi are available as part of Humanities/Arts exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for Humanities/Arts Exam by signing up for free.

Top Courses Humanities/Arts

Signup to see your scores go up within 7 days!

Study with 1000+ FREE Docs, Videos & Tests
10M+ students study on EduRev