All questions of Land Resources and Agriculture for Humanities/Arts Exam

B

Measuring Geographical Area of Administrative Units

Department responsible for measuring the geographical area of administrative units is Survey of India. Let's discuss in detail.

Survey of India
Survey of India is the national survey and mapping organization of India. It was established in 1767 and is headquartered in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is responsible for all the topographic, cadastral, and geodetic surveys of India. Survey of India is an attached office of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

Role of Survey of India
Survey of India plays a vital role in the development of the country. It provides the geographic foundation for planning and implementing various developmental activities such as road construction, building construction, urban planning, and agriculture development.

Measuring Geographical Area of Administrative Units
The Survey of India is responsible for measuring the geographical area of administrative units. It uses various techniques and tools to measure the area accurately. Some of the commonly used techniques are:

- Total Station: It is an electronic instrument used for measuring angles and distances. It can measure the distance between two points accurately and quickly.
- GPS: Global Positioning System is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information. It is used to measure the exact location of a point.
- Aerial Photography: It is the process of taking photographs of the ground from the air. Aerial photographs provide a bird's-eye view of the area and are used to measure the area of large administrative units.

Conclusion
Survey of India is the department responsible for measuring the geographical area of administrative units. It uses various techniques and tools to measure the area accurately. Measuring the area accurately is essential for planning and implementing developmental activities in the country.

Rice research institute of India is situated at Cuttack.

Location of the Rice Research Institute:
The Rice Research Institute of India is located in Cuttack, Odisha. It is commonly known as the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI).

Significance of the Rice Research Institute:
The Rice Research Institute plays a crucial role in the development and improvement of rice varieties and production techniques in India. It is responsible for conducting research and providing technical assistance to farmers and policymakers in the field of rice cultivation.

Research Activities at the Rice Research Institute:
The Rice Research Institute focuses on various research activities related to rice production and cultivation. Some of the key areas of research include:

1. Rice Breeding: The institute conducts research to develop new high-yielding and disease-resistant rice varieties. These varieties are designed to meet the specific needs and challenges of different regions in India.

2. Crop Management: The institute studies and develops efficient crop management practices, including the use of fertilizers, irrigation techniques, and pest control measures. This research aims to enhance the productivity and sustainability of rice cultivation.

3. Soil Health and Nutrient Management: The institute conducts studies on soil health and fertility to determine optimal nutrient management practices for rice cultivation. This research helps in maintaining soil fertility and improving crop yields.

4. Technology Development: The institute focuses on developing and promoting innovative technologies for rice cultivation. This includes the use of advanced machinery, precision farming techniques, and digital tools to optimize productivity and reduce production costs.

Collaboration and Outreach:
The Rice Research Institute collaborates with various national and international research organizations, universities, and agricultural institutes to exchange knowledge, expertise, and genetic resources. It also conducts training programs and workshops to disseminate research findings and impart technical skills to farmers and agricultural professionals.

Conclusion:
The Rice Research Institute of India, situated in Cuttack, plays a vital role in advancing rice cultivation and production in the country. Through its research activities and collaborations, it contributes to the development of improved rice varieties, sustainable farming practices, and the overall growth of the agricultural sector in India.

**Explanation:**

Kharif crops are the crops that are sown in the rainy season and harvested in the autumn season. They are also known as monsoon crops. These crops require a lot of water and are suitable for regions with high rainfall. Kharif crops are typically sown between June and July and harvested between September and October.

Let's analyze each option to determine which one is not a kharif crop:

a) **Rice:** Rice is a major kharif crop. It requires a lot of water and is cultivated in areas with high rainfall. Therefore, rice is a kharif crop.

b) **Rapeseeds:** Rapeseeds, also known as canola, are not typically considered a kharif crop. They are usually sown in the winter season and harvested in the spring season. Therefore, rapeseeds are not a kharif crop.

c) **Cotton:** Cotton is a kharif crop. It requires a warm and humid climate, making it suitable for cultivation during the monsoon season. Therefore, cotton is a kharif crop.

d) **Maize:** Maize, also known as corn, is a kharif crop. It is sown in the rainy season and requires adequate rainfall for its growth. Therefore, maize is a kharif crop.

From the above analysis, we can conclude that option **b) Rapeseeds** is not a kharif crop. Rapeseeds are typically sown and harvested in different seasons compared to kharif crops.

**Rabi Crops:**

Rabi crops are a type of agricultural crops that are sown in the winter season and harvested in the spring. These crops are mainly grown in India and other countries with a similar climate. Rabi crops are known for their ability to withstand cold weather and require relatively less water compared to other crops.

**Growing Season of Rabi Crops:**

The growing season of Rabi crops varies depending on the region and climate. However, in India, the growing season for Rabi crops generally falls between the months of October and March. This period is characterized by cooler temperatures and lower rainfall, making it ideal for the cultivation of these crops.

**Reasons for Growing Rabi Crops During October-March:**

1. Temperature: Rabi crops require a cool temperature range for their growth and development. The winter months of October to March provide the necessary favorable conditions for these crops to thrive.

2. Rainfall: Rabi crops require less water compared to other types of crops. The months of October to March in India experience lower rainfall, which is suitable for Rabi crops as excessive moisture can cause damage or disease.

3. Sunlight: Rabi crops need an optimum amount of sunlight for photosynthesis. The winter season provides an adequate amount of sunlight, which helps in the growth and yield of these crops.

4. Soil Moisture: The soil moisture content is relatively higher during the monsoon season, which is favorable for Kharif crops. Once the monsoon season ends, the soil moisture gradually decreases, making it suitable for Rabi crops.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, Rabi crops are grown during the months of October to March in India. The winter season provides favorable conditions such as cool temperature, lower rainfall, adequate sunlight, and reduced soil moisture, which are essential for the successful cultivation of these crops. Farmers carefully plan and sow Rabi crops during this period to ensure a good yield and contribute to the overall agricultural productivity of the country.

Introduction:
Robusta, Arabica, and Liberica are varieties of coffee. Coffee is a popular beverage consumed worldwide and is derived from the beans of the Coffea plant. These three varieties have distinct characteristics and are grown in different regions, each producing unique flavors and aromas.

Robusta Coffee:
- Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) is a species of coffee that is known for its high caffeine content and strong flavor.
- It is primarily grown in Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
- Robusta beans are more resilient and have a higher yield compared to Arabica beans.
- The taste of Robusta coffee is often described as bitter and harsh, with a grainy texture.
- It is commonly used in instant coffee, espresso blends, and as a filler in lower-quality coffee products.

Arabica Coffee:
- Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica) is the most widely consumed species of coffee and is known for its delicate flavor and aroma.
- It is grown in regions with higher altitudes, such as Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Asia.
- Arabica beans have lower caffeine content compared to Robusta beans.
- The taste of Arabica coffee is often described as smooth, with subtle acidity and a wide range of flavors including fruity, floral, and chocolaty notes.
- It is commonly used in specialty coffees, espresso, and gourmet blends.

Liberica Coffee:
- Liberica coffee (Coffea liberica) is a less common variety of coffee and is known for its unique flavor profile.
- It is primarily grown in the Philippines, Malaysia, and parts of Indonesia.
- Liberica beans are larger and have an asymmetrical shape compared to Robusta and Arabica beans.
- The taste of Liberica coffee is often described as bold, smoky, and slightly woody, with a hint of floral or fruity notes.
- While it is not as widely produced or consumed as Robusta or Arabica, Liberica coffee has a niche market and is appreciated by coffee enthusiasts.

Conclusion:
Robusta, Arabica, and Liberica are all varieties of coffee. Each variety has its own distinct characteristics in terms of flavor, aroma, caffeine content, and growing regions. Understanding these differences can help coffee enthusiasts and professionals appreciate the diverse range of flavors and choose the coffee that suits their preferences.

**Barani Cultivation:**

Barani cultivation refers to a type of agriculture that is practiced in regions with limited rainfall. It is primarily a rain-fed farming system, relying on natural precipitation rather than artificial irrigation methods. This method is commonly used in arid and semi-arid regions, where water scarcity is a significant challenge.

**Explanation:**

Barani cultivation is related to rain-fed farming, as it heavily depends on the amount and distribution of rainfall in a particular area. Unlike irrigated crops, which receive water through artificial means such as canals, pumps, or sprinklers, barani cultivation relies solely on the natural rainfall for watering the crops. This makes it a suitable method for regions where there is limited access to water sources or where irrigation infrastructure is not feasible.

**Advantages of Barani Cultivation:**

1. Cost-Effective: Barani cultivation requires minimal investment in irrigation infrastructure, as it relies on natural rainfall. This makes it a cost-effective method for farmers, especially in regions with limited financial resources.

2. Environmentally Friendly: Since barani cultivation does not involve excessive water usage, it helps conserve water resources and reduces the strain on local ecosystems. It also minimizes the risk of water pollution from agricultural runoff.

3. Sustainable: Barani cultivation promotes sustainable agriculture by utilizing natural resources effectively. It encourages farmers to adapt to local climatic conditions and choose crop varieties that are suitable for rain-fed farming. This helps in the conservation of soil fertility and prevents land degradation.

4. Crop Diversity: Barani cultivation often involves the cultivation of a diverse range of crops that are well-suited to the local climate and rainfall patterns. This diversification helps in minimizing the risk of crop failure due to variations in rainfall and provides farmers with a more stable income.

**Limitations of Barani Cultivation:**

1. Dependence on Rainfall: Barani cultivation is highly dependent on the amount and distribution of rainfall. In regions with erratic rainfall patterns or prolonged droughts, crop yields can be significantly affected.

2. Risk of Crop Failure: Since barani cultivation does not involve artificial irrigation, there is a higher risk of crop failure during dry spells or inadequate rainfall. This can lead to economic losses for farmers.

3. Limited Crop Choices: Certain crops that require a consistent and abundant water supply may not be suitable for barani cultivation. Farmers may need to focus on drought-resistant crop varieties that can thrive in rain-fed conditions.

In conclusion, barani cultivation is a rain-fed farming system that relies on natural rainfall rather than artificial irrigation methods. It offers several advantages such as cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and crop diversity. However, it also has limitations related to dependence on rainfall and the risk of crop failure during dry spells.

Formula for cropping intensity:

Cropping intensity is a measure of the extent of land under cultivation relative to the total arable land available. It is expressed as a percentage and can be calculated using the formula:

Cropping intensity = Gross Cropped Area (GCA) / Net Sown Area (NSA) x 100

Explanation:

1. Gross Cropped Area (GCA):
- Gross Cropped Area refers to the total area of land on which crops are grown during the cropping season.
- It includes the area under all types of crops, including multiple cropping and intercropping.

2. Net Sown Area (NSA):
- Net Sown Area refers to the total area of land that is actually sown with crops during the cropping season.
- It excludes fallow land, land under permanent crops, and other non-agricultural uses.

3. Cropping Intensity:
- Cropping Intensity is a measure of the intensity of land use for cultivation purposes.
- It indicates the efficiency with which the available arable land is utilized for crop production.
- A higher cropping intensity signifies more efficient land use and increased agricultural productivity.

4. Calculating Cropping Intensity:
- To calculate cropping intensity, we divide the Gross Cropped Area (GCA) by the Net Sown Area (NSA) and multiply the result by 100 to express it as a percentage.
- The formula can be represented as: Cropping Intensity = GCA / NSA x 100.

5. Example:
- Suppose the Gross Cropped Area (GCA) is 500 hectares and the Net Sown Area (NSA) is 1000 hectares.
- Using the formula, we can calculate the cropping intensity as follows:
Cropping Intensity = 500 / 1000 x 100 = 50%
- This indicates that 50% of the available arable land is being utilized for crop cultivation.

Summary:

Cropping intensity is a measure of the extent of land under cultivation relative to the total arable land available. It is calculated by dividing the Gross Cropped Area (GCA) by the Net Sown Area (NSA) and multiplying the result by 100. The formula for cropping intensity is GCA / NSA x 100. This measure helps assess the efficiency of land use and agricultural productivity.

Explanation:
Fallow land refers to land that is temporarily left uncultivated or unused for agricultural purposes. It is an important concept in agriculture as it allows the land to rest and recover its fertility, which ultimately improves crop yield in the long run. The duration for which land remains fallow can vary, but in this case, the correct answer is option 'D', which states that fallow land is land left uncultivated for 1 year or less than 1 year.

Reasoning:
There are several reasons why land may be left fallow for a certain period of time. Some of the common reasons include:

1. Soil Fertility Restoration: Continuous cultivation of the same crop on a piece of land can deplete the soil of essential nutrients. Allowing the land to lie fallow for a year or less helps in restoring the soil fertility and replenishing the nutrient content. This, in turn, improves the productivity of subsequent crops.

2. Weed Control: Certain weed species can become problematic if not properly managed. Leaving the land fallow for a short period helps in reducing the weed population as the absence of crops restricts their growth and spread.

3. Pest and Disease Management: Fallowing the land disrupts the life cycle of pests and diseases that may have affected the previous crop. This break in cultivation helps in reducing the population of pests and pathogens, thereby minimizing the risk of infestation and disease outbreaks in future crops.

Implications:
The duration of fallow period can vary depending on factors such as climate, soil type, and farming practices. In this case, the given answer of 1 year or less than 1 year suggests a relatively short fallow period. This implies that the land is not left uncultivated for an extended period and is quickly prepared for the next cultivation cycle.

Short fallow periods are often practiced in areas with high agricultural intensity, where farmers aim to maximize their land's productivity. In such regions, the use of advanced agricultural techniques, such as crop rotation, intercropping, and the application of organic matter and fertilizers, can minimize the need for long fallow periods.

However, it is important to note that fallow periods longer than 1 year can also be beneficial in certain situations, especially in areas with poor soil quality or when implementing sustainable farming practices. Longer fallow periods allow for more comprehensive soil restoration, increased organic matter accumulation, and enhanced biodiversity.

Overall, the duration of fallow land depends on various factors, and farmers make decisions based on their specific agricultural practices, goals, and local conditions.