All questions of Primary Activities for Humanities/Arts Exam

Open-cast mining is the other name of surface mining.

Why is wet paddy farming subsistence?

Historically communities grew rice for themselves
- Wet paddy farming, also known as rice cultivation, has been practiced by communities for centuries as a means of subsistence.
- Historically, communities grew rice primarily for their own consumption rather than for commercial purposes.
- The main goal of wet paddy farming was to ensure food security for the community, rather than generating income through market sales.

Less market demands
- Wet paddy farming is mainly subsistence-oriented due to the limited market demand for rice.
- Unlike cash crops that have a higher demand in the market, rice is a staple food in many countries and its demand is relatively stable.
- As a result, farmers engage in wet paddy farming to meet their own food requirements rather than focusing on generating surplus for sale.

Low consumption globally
- Rice is primarily consumed in the regions where it is grown, resulting in a limited global market for rice.
- While rice is a major staple in Asia, its consumption is relatively low in other parts of the world, reducing the potential market demand.
- This lack of global demand further reinforces the subsistence nature of wet paddy farming, as farmers primarily grow rice for local consumption.

None of the Above
- The correct answer is option 'A' - historically, communities grew rice for themselves.
- This choice best explains why wet paddy farming is subsistence agriculture, as it highlights the traditional practice of cultivating rice for local consumption rather than commercial purposes.
- While options 'B' and 'C' touch upon factors that contribute to the subsistence nature of wet paddy farming, they do not provide the primary reason behind it.

In conclusion, wet paddy farming is considered subsistence agriculture because historically, communities grew rice for themselves, focusing on meeting their own food requirements rather than generating surplus for sale. The limited market demand for rice and its relatively low consumption globally further reinforce the subsistence nature of wet paddy farming.

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.

Farm yard manure is a decomposed mixture of Cattle dung and urine with straw and litter.

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.

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.

Shaft 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.

Intensive subsistence agriculture dominated by wet paddy is practiced in Southeast Asia.

Understanding Dairy Farming Regions
Dairy farming is a significant agricultural sector worldwide, with specific regions becoming prominent due to their suitable climate, terrain, and farming practices. Here’s an analysis of the regions mentioned in your question:
North Western Europe
- This region is known for its advanced agricultural techniques and high milk production. Countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and France are leaders in dairy farming.
Canada
- Canada has a strong dairy industry, particularly in provinces like Quebec and Ontario. The climate and pasture availability contribute to its success.
South Eastern Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania
- This area is renowned for its dairy farming, with New Zealand being one of the largest exporters of dairy products globally. The temperate climate and rich pastures make it ideal for dairy cattle.
Mediterranean Basin
- The Mediterranean Basin is less focused on commercial dairy farming. While there are dairy activities (like sheep and goat cheese production), the region is more famous for crops like olives and grapes. The climate is not as conducive to large-scale dairy farming compared to the other regions listed.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Mediterranean Basin does engage in dairy farming, it does not rank among the major areas of commercial dairy farming as the other regions do. This distinction is primarily due to the climatic and agricultural focus differences in these areas.

Rice needs water for evapotranspiration, seepage and percolation, as well as for management practices such as land preparation and drainage. Submerged rice cultivation practices help to promote water percolation and groundwater recharge, control flooding during heavy rains, and prevent weed growth in rice fields.

Understanding Nomadic Movement
Nomadic communities, particularly those engaged in pastoral nomadism, frequently relocate based on various factors, primarily driven by seasonal changes.
Reasons for Movement
- Seasonal Change: The most significant reason for the migration of nomadic communities is the change in seasons. Different climates and weather conditions affect the availability of pastures for their livestock.
- Summer Movement: During the warmer months, herders typically move to higher elevations or cooler areas to access fresh pastures and water sources, which are abundant in mountainous regions.
- Winter Movement: As the seasons shift, these communities migrate back to lower plains where the climate is milder, and resources are more accessible for both livestock and humans.
- Traditional Habits: While traditional habits and cultural practices also influence the movement of nomadic communities, these are often closely tied to the seasonal availability of resources. The patterns of migration have been established over generations, as communities adapt to their environmental conditions.
- Other Factors: Although less prominent, other factors like political instability or threats can also influence movement. However, these are not the primary reasons for the seasonal migrations observed in pastoral nomadism.
Conclusion
In summary, the primary reason for the movement of nomadic communities is due to seasonal changes, which dictate the availability of pastures and water sources essential for their livelihood. While traditional habits play a role, it is the changing seasons that fundamentally drive their migratory patterns.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.