Agriculture -Olympiad Level MCQ,Class 10 SST - Class 10 MCQ

Plantation agriculture
Plantation agriculture is a system of agriculture where a single crop is grown on a large area of land. Here are the key characteristics of plantation agriculture:
1. Large-scale production: Plantation agriculture involves cultivating a single crop, such as tea, coffee, sugarcane, or rubber, on a large-scale plantation. These plantations can cover vast areas of land.
2. Monoculture: The focus of plantation agriculture is on growing a single crop rather than a diverse range of crops. This allows for specialization in the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of the chosen crop.
3. Commercial production: Plantation agriculture is primarily driven by commercial interests. The crops grown are typically for export or large-scale commercial use. These plantations often have a hierarchical management structure and employ a large number of workers.
4. Intensive cultivation: Plantation crops require intensive management and cultivation practices, including regular irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting. The aim is to maximize yields and ensure consistent quality.
5. Labor-intensive: Plantation agriculture relies heavily on manual labor. Workers are employed for tasks such as planting, pruning, harvesting, and processing the crops. Historically, this has often involved the use of enslaved or indentured labor.
6. Environmental impact: The large-scale cultivation of a single crop can have significant environmental impacts, including deforestation, soil degradation, and increased pesticide and fertilizer use. These practices can lead to ecological imbalances and loss of biodiversity.
Overall, plantation agriculture is characterized by the cultivation of a single crop on a large scale, primarily for commercial purposes. This system has had a significant impact on global trade, labor systems, and the environment.

Leguminous Crop:

A leguminous crop is a plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae (Leguminosae) and is known for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules. These crops are an important source of protein and nutrients and play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture.

Possible Options:

Among the given options, the leguminous crop is:

• A: Pulses


• B: Cotton


• C: Jowar


• D: Maize

Explanation:

Among the options, pulses are leguminous crops. Pulses are a type of crop that includes various edible seeds of legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas. These crops have a high protein content and are an essential part of vegetarian and vegan diets. They are also rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Cotton, jowar, and maize, on the other hand, are not leguminous crops:

• B: Cotton - Cotton is a fiber crop and belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is grown for its soft, fluffy fibers that are used in textile production.


• C: Jowar - Jowar, also known as sorghum, is a cereal crop and belongs to the family Poaceae. It is primarily cultivated for its grains, which are used as food for humans and animals.


• D: Maize - Maize, also known as corn, is a cereal crop and belongs to the family Poaceae. It is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world and is primarily grown for its grains, which are used in various food and industrial products.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option A: Pulses.

Explanation:

'Slash and burn agriculture' refers to a traditional farming method in which vegetation is cut down and burned to clear land for cultivation. The ashes from the burned vegetation provide nutrients to the soil, allowing crops to grow. This method is commonly practiced in tropical regions with nutrient-poor soils.

Detailed Answer:

The correct answer to the given question is option A: shifting agriculture. Here is a detailed explanation:

Shifting agriculture, also known as slash and burn agriculture, is a farming method in which small areas of forest or vegetation are cleared by cutting down trees and then burning them. The ashes from the burned vegetation serve as a source of nutrients for the soil, allowing crops to be grown. This method is typically practiced by indigenous communities in tropical regions.

Shifting agriculture involves the following steps:

- Clearing: Small areas of forest or vegetation are cleared by cutting down trees and removing the vegetation.
- Burning: The cleared vegetation is then burned, which releases nutrients from the ashes into the soil.
- Cultivation: Crops are planted in the nutrient-rich soil.
- Harvesting: The crops are grown and harvested.
- Abandonment: After a few years, the fertility of the soil declines, and the land is left fallow or abandoned. The process is then repeated in a different area.

Shifting agriculture is a sustainable farming method when practiced with proper land management techniques. However, if not managed properly, it can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.

Therefore, the correct answer is option A: shifting agriculture.

Answer:
The Rabi crop refers to the crop that is sown in the winter season and harvested in the summer season. It requires a cool temperature for germination and warm temperature for growth. Among the given options, the Rabi crop is:
Wheat.
Explanation:
Rabi crops are generally sown in October and November and harvested in April and May. They require less water and are dependent on winter rains. Wheat is a major Rabi crop that is cultivated in many regions. It is an important staple food crop and is grown extensively in countries like India, China, and the United States. Wheat requires a cool climate with a temperature range of 10 to 24 degrees Celsius for proper growth. It is an annual grass and belongs to the Triticum genus. Wheat is rich in carbohydrates and is used for making various food products such as bread, pasta, and noodles.

India as the leading producer and exporter of Rice in the world
India holds the top position in both the production and export of rice globally. Here is a detailed explanation of why India is considered the leading producer and exporter of rice:
1. Favorable Climate and Geography:
- India has a diverse climate and geography, providing suitable conditions for rice cultivation.
- The country has a vast area of fertile land and a favorable monsoon climate, which is essential for rice cultivation.
2. High Production Volume:
- India consistently produces a high volume of rice each year, contributing to its leading producer status.
- The country's agricultural practices and the extensive use of modern farming techniques have helped increase rice production.
3. Varieties of Rice:
- India cultivates a wide range of rice varieties, including Basmati and Non-Basmati rice.
- The aromatic and high-quality Basmati rice cultivated in India is highly sought after around the world.
4. Government Support:
- The Indian government provides various schemes, subsidies, and support to promote rice cultivation and enhance productivity.
- Programs like the Minimum Support Price (MSP) ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their rice produce.
5. Export Potential:
- India has a significant share in the global rice export market.
- The country exports rice to various countries worldwide, including the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
6. Cost-Effective Production:
- India's rice production is cost-effective compared to many other countries.
- The availability of labor, lower production costs, and efficient farming practices contribute to India's competitive advantage in the global rice market.
7. Infrastructure and Processing Facilities:
- India has well-developed infrastructure and processing facilities for rice production and export.
- The country has modern rice mills, storage facilities, and transportation networks that ensure the quality and timely delivery of rice.
In conclusion, India's favorable climate, high production volume, diverse rice varieties, government support, export potential, cost-effective production, and robust infrastructure contribute to its leading position as the producer and exporter of rice in the world.

Horticulture: Cultivation of fruits and vegetables

Horticulture refers to the science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It involves the process of planting, growing, and harvesting various crops. When it comes to fruits and vegetables specifically, horticulture plays a crucial role in their cultivation. Here's a detailed explanation:

Therefore, the correct answer is Option C: Horticulture.

Explanation:
Kharif crops are crops that are sown in the rainy season and harvested in the autumn season. These crops require a hot and humid climate to grow properly. They are typically cultivated between June and October. The crops that fall under the category of kharif crops include:

A. Rice: Rice is a staple food crop in many countries, particularly in Asia. It requires a lot of water and is grown in flooded fields or paddy fields. Rice is a kharif crop as it is sown during the monsoon season and harvested in the autumn season.

B. Wheat: Wheat is a rabi crop, which means it is sown in the winter season and harvested in the spring season. It does not fall under the category of kharif crops.

C. Gram: Gram, also known as chickpea, is a rabi crop. It is sown in the winter season and harvested in the spring season. It does not fall under the category of kharif crops.

D. Peas: Peas are also a rabi crop. They are sown in the winter season and harvested in the spring season. Peas do not fall under the category of kharif crops.
Therefore, the correct answer is A. Rice. Rice is an example of a kharif crop.

The correct answer is option A: Winter. Winter is not a cropping season. Let's understand the other cropping seasons mentioned in the options:
Kharif:
- Kharif is the cropping season that starts with the onset of the monsoon.
- It begins in June and continues till September.
- Crops like rice, maize, cotton, soybean, etc., are grown during this season.
Rabi:
- Rabi is the cropping season that follows the monsoon season.
- It starts in October and lasts till March.
- Crops like wheat, barley, mustard, peas, etc., are grown during this season.
Zaid:
- Zaid is the cropping season that falls between the Rabi and Kharif seasons.
- It starts in March and lasts till June.
- Crops like watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon, etc., are grown during this season.
Hence, the correct answer is option A: Winter, as it is not a cropping season.

Answer:

Beverage Crop:

• Tea: Tea is a popular beverage crop that is grown and consumed in various parts of the world. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is known for its refreshing taste and stimulating effects due to the presence of caffeine.

Other Crops:

• Cotton: Cotton is not a beverage crop, but a fiber crop. It is primarily cultivated for its soft and fluffy fibers, which are used to make textiles and fabric.


• Wheat: Wheat is a cereal crop that is widely cultivated for its edible grains. It is a staple food in many countries and is commonly used to make flour for bread, pasta, and other baked goods.


• Bajra: Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is a type of cereal crop. It is primarily grown for its grains, which are used as a staple food in several regions. Bajra is often ground into flour and used to make roti, a type of bread.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

• A: Tea

Golden Fibre - Jute

Jute is known as the "Golden Fibre" due to its golden and silky shine. It is a long, soft, and shiny vegetable fiber that can be spun into coarse, strong threads. Jute is primarily grown in the Indian subcontinent and is widely used in the production of various products.

Explanation:

• Jute is a natural fiber that is extracted from the bark of the jute plant.


• It is commonly used to make bags, carpets, rugs, and other products.


• India is the largest producer of jute in the world, followed by Bangladesh.


• The golden shine of jute fibers gives it the nickname "Golden Fibre".


• Jute is also an environmentally friendly crop as it is biodegradable and renewable.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D: Jute.

Explanation:
To determine which one of the following is not a fibre crop, we need to understand the characteristics and uses of each crop mentioned.
Cotton:
- Cotton is a major fibre crop and is used to produce cotton fibres, which are then used in textile industries.
- It is grown in large quantities worldwide and is an important cash crop.
Rubber:
- Rubber is not a fibre crop. It is harvested from the rubber tree, which is grown for its latex rather than its fibres.
- The latex is processed to produce natural rubber, which is used in various industries, including the production of tires, rubber gloves, and rubber bands.
Jute:
- Jute is a fibre crop that is primarily grown in India and Bangladesh.
- The fibres obtained from the jute plant are used to make burlap, sacks, and other coarse textiles.
- Jute fibres are also used in the production of carpets, mats, and ropes.
Hemp:
- Hemp is a fibre crop that is gaining popularity for its versatile uses.
- The fibres obtained from the hemp plant are used in the production of textiles, paper, biodegradable plastics, and construction materials.
- Hemp fibres are known for their strength and durability.
Therefore, the crop that is not a fibre crop is Rubber.

Answer:
The Arabica variety of coffee was initially brought to India from Yemen. Here is a detailed explanation:
Reasoning:
To determine the country from which the Arabica variety of coffee was initially brought to India, we need to consider the historical trade routes and origins of coffee cultivation.
Explanation:
1. Yemen: Yemen is known as the birthplace of coffee and has a long history of coffee cultivation. It is believed that coffee was first cultivated in Yemen and then spread to other parts of the world.
2. Vietnam: While Vietnam is one of the largest coffee producers in the world today, the Arabica variety of coffee was not initially brought to India from Vietnam.
3. Japan: Japan is not historically known for coffee cultivation, and it is unlikely that the Arabica variety was brought to India from Japan.
4. Korea: Korea is not historically known for coffee cultivation, and it is unlikely that the Arabica variety was brought to India from Korea.
Conclusion:
Based on historical trade routes and the origin of coffee cultivation, it can be concluded that the Arabica variety of coffee was initially brought to India from Yemen.

India is the largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world.
Here are the reasons why India holds this title:
- Climate and Geography: India has a diverse climate and geography, which allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The country has tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions, making it suitable for growing a range of crops.
- Agricultural Practices: India has a long history of agriculture and has developed efficient farming practices over the years. The country has a large number of small-scale farmers who contribute significantly to fruit and vegetable production.
- Large Agricultural Land: India has a vast agricultural land area, which provides ample space for cultivation. The country's agricultural land is spread across different states, allowing for the cultivation of various crops.
- Government Support: The Indian government has implemented various policies and programs to support and promote agriculture. It provides subsidies, loans, and technical assistance to farmers, which enhances fruit and vegetable production.
- Export Potential: India is not only a major producer but also a significant exporter of fruits and vegetables. The country exports a significant amount of produce to various countries around the world.
Overall, the combination of favorable climate, diverse geography, efficient agricultural practices, large agricultural land, government support, and export potential has made India the largest producer of fruits and vegetables in the world.

Explanation:
To determine which one of the following options is an example of plantation agriculture, we need to understand what plantation agriculture is. Plantation agriculture refers to large-scale farming that focuses on cultivating a single crop or a small number of crops over a large area of land. It is typically associated with tropical or subtropical regions and involves the use of extensive labor and capital resources.
Among the given options:
A: Jute - Jute is a crop that is primarily grown in the Indian subcontinent and is commonly used for producing fibers and textiles. While jute cultivation can occur on a large scale, it is not typically associated with plantation agriculture.
B: Wheat - Wheat is a staple crop that is grown in many regions around the world. However, it is usually cultivated on a smaller scale and is not typically associated with plantation agriculture.
C: Tea - Tea is a crop that is commonly associated with plantation agriculture. It is grown in large-scale plantations in countries like India, China, and Kenya, where the climate and soil conditions are suitable for its cultivation.
D: Oilseeds - Oilseeds refer to crops such as soybeans, sunflower seeds, and rapeseeds that are used for oil extraction. While oilseeds can be grown on a large scale, they are not typically associated with plantation agriculture.
Based on the above analysis, the correct answer is C: Tea. Tea is an example of plantation agriculture due to its large-scale cultivation in specific regions under controlled conditions.

Answer:
The largest producer of oil seeds in the world is India. Here is a detailed explanation:
Factors determining the largest producer of oil seeds:
1. Production volume: The country with the highest production volume of oil seeds can be considered the largest producer.
2. Agricultural practices: Countries with favorable climatic conditions, suitable soil, and advanced agricultural techniques can produce a higher quantity of oil seeds.
3. Demand and consumption: Countries with a high demand for oil seeds, either for domestic consumption or for export, tend to focus on increasing their production.
Explanation:
- China:
- China is a major producer of various agricultural products, but it is not the largest producer of oil seeds.
- China's main agricultural products include grains, vegetables, fruits, and livestock.
- India:
- India is the largest producer of oil seeds in the world.
- The favorable climatic conditions in India, along with a vast agricultural land area, contribute to its high production of oil seeds.
- Major oil seed crops in India include soybean, groundnut, mustard, sesame, sunflower, and rapeseed.
- India's oil seed production plays a significant role in meeting both domestic consumption and export demands.
- USA:
- The United States is a leading producer of various agricultural commodities, including soybeans, but it is not the largest producer of oil seeds.
- Soybeans are the primary oil seed crop in the USA, and it is grown in large quantities, but other countries surpass it in overall oil seed production.
- Pakistan:
- Pakistan is not the largest producer of oil seeds.
- While Pakistan does cultivate oil seed crops such as rapeseed, sunflower, and sesame, its production volume is not as high as India's.
In conclusion, India is the largest producer of oil seeds in the world, primarily due to its favorable agricultural conditions, vast land area, and high demand for oil seeds.

Black Soil and Suitable Crops

Black soil, also known as regur soil or black cotton soil, is a fertile type of soil found in the Deccan Plateau region of India. It is rich in organic matter and has excellent moisture retention capacity. The black soil is suitable for growing various crops, but some crops thrive exceptionally well in this type of soil:

• Jute: Jute is a fiber crop that grows well in black soil. It requires a high moisture content, and the black soil's excellent water holding capacity provides the necessary conditions for jute cultivation.


• Rice: Rice is a staple food crop that can be successfully cultivated in black soil. The soil's good drainage and moisture retention properties make it conducive for rice farming.


• Cotton: Black soil is known as "black cotton soil" due to its suitability for growing cotton. Cotton plants require well-drained soil with good moisture-holding capacity, making black soil an ideal choice.


• Wheat: Although black soil is not the most preferred soil for wheat cultivation, it can still support wheat growth under proper management practices. Wheat requires well-drained soil, and black soil's medium to heavy texture allows for good aeration.

Therefore, out of the given options, the crop that grows well in black soil is Cotton (Option C).

Answer:
The cultivation of coffee is confined to the Nilgiri hills. The other options mentioned (Aravali and Shivalik) do not have suitable conditions for coffee cultivation. Here is a detailed explanation:
Nilgiri Hills:
- The Nilgiri hills are located in the southern part of India, in the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
- These hills have a favorable climate and altitude for coffee cultivation.
- The region is known for producing high-quality coffee beans, particularly Arabica variety.
Aravali Hills:
- The Aravali hills are a range of mountains in western India, running through the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
- The climate and altitude of the Aravali hills are not suitable for coffee cultivation.
- This region is more suitable for the cultivation of crops like wheat, mustard, and cotton.
Shivalik Hills:
- The Shivalik hills are a part of the Himalayan mountain range, located in northern India.
- While these hills have suitable conditions for tea cultivation, they are not known for coffee cultivation.
- Tea plantations are more common in regions like Darjeeling, Assam, and Himachal Pradesh.
Conclusion:
Based on the options given, the correct answer is Nilgiri hills. Coffee cultivation is confined to these hills due to their favorable climate and altitude.

Maize growth and soil type:

Maize, also known as corn, is a widely cultivated cereal crop. The growth and yield of maize are influenced by various factors, including soil type. Let's explore the different soil types and their suitability for maize cultivation:

1. Black Soil:

• Black soil, also known as regur soil or black cotton soil, is rich in organic matter and clay.


• This type of soil has good water-holding capacity and is well-drained.


• Maize can grow well in black soil if it is properly managed and adequately fertilized.

2. Light Domat Soil:

• Light domat soil is a sandy soil type with low moisture retention.


• This type of soil is not suitable for maize cultivation as it does not provide adequate moisture and nutrients to the crop.


• Maize plants may struggle to establish and grow in light domat soil.

3. Old Alluvial Soil:

• Old alluvial soil is formed by the deposition of sediment carried by rivers over thousands of years.


• It is well-drained and fertile, making it suitable for maize cultivation.


• Maize can thrive in old alluvial soil due to its good nutrient content and moisture retention capacity.

4. Alluvial Soil:

• Alluvial soil is formed by the deposition of silt, sand, and clay carried by rivers.


• This type of soil is well-drained, fertile, and easy to work with.


• Maize can grow exceptionally well in alluvial soil due to its high fertility and good water-holding capacity.

Based on the above information, it can be concluded that maize grows well in alluvial soil and old alluvial soil. These soil types provide the necessary nutrients, good drainage, and moisture retention for optimal maize growth and yield.

Answer:
The correct answer is B: Kharif crops.
Kharif crops are cultivated with the onset of monsoons and are harvested in the months of September and October. These crops require a lot of water and are grown during the rainy season. Some examples of Kharif crops include rice, maize, cotton, soybean, sugarcane, and groundnut.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Kharif crops:
- Kharif crops are sown with the arrival of monsoons, which usually happens in June or July.
- They require a high amount of rainfall and are generally harvested in the months of September and October.
- These crops are well-suited for the Indian subcontinent, where monsoons play a crucial role in agriculture.
- Kharif crops include rice, maize, cotton, soybean, sugarcane, and groundnut.
- These crops are essential for the Indian economy and contribute significantly to the agricultural sector.
2. Rabi crops:
- Rabi crops are grown during the winter season, which starts in October or November.
- They require relatively less water compared to Kharif crops and are harvested in the months of March and April.
- Examples of Rabi crops include wheat, barley, mustard, peas, and gram.
- Rabi crops are an important source of food and contribute to the overall agricultural production.
3. Zaid crops:
- Zaid crops are grown during the summer season, which starts in March or April.
- These crops have a short duration and are harvested in the months of June or July.
- Some examples of Zaid crops include watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, and bitter gourd.
- Zaid crops help in utilizing the summer season effectively and provide additional income to farmers.
In conclusion, Kharif crops are grown with the onset of monsoons and are harvested in the months of September and October. They require a lot of water and are essential for the Indian agricultural sector.

Commercial Crop: Rice in India

Rice is considered a commercial crop in the state of Punjab in India.

Reasoning:

• West Bengal: Rice is a major crop in West Bengal, but it is primarily grown for subsistence rather than commercial purposes.


• Orissa: Orissa, now known as Odisha, is a significant rice-producing state in India. However, rice cultivation in Odisha is predominantly for domestic consumption rather than commercial purposes.


• Bihar: Bihar is one of the largest rice-producing states in India. Rice cultivation plays a vital role in the state's economy, but it is mainly for self-sufficiency and domestic consumption rather than commercial purposes.


• Punjab: Punjab is known for its wheat production, but it also cultivates rice as a commercial crop. The state has favorable climatic conditions and irrigation facilities, making it suitable for commercial rice cultivation.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, Punjab is the state in India where rice is considered a commercial crop. The other states mentioned, such as West Bengal, Orissa, and Bihar, have significant rice cultivation, but it is primarily for subsistence and domestic consumption.

The crop that is an example of plantation farming is rubber.
Explanation:
Plantation farming is a type of commercial farming that involves the large-scale cultivation of a single crop on a large area of land. It is usually practiced in tropical and sub-tropical regions where the climate and soil conditions are suitable for the growth of specific crops. In plantation farming, the crops are cultivated for commercial purposes and are usually used for export.
In this case, the correct answer is option C: Rubber. Rubber is a crop that is commonly grown in plantations. It is mainly cultivated in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and India, where there is a favorable climate for rubber production. Rubber plantations involve the cultivation of rubber trees on large estates, where the latex sap is collected and processed to produce rubber.
Other crops like rice and wheat are not examples of plantation farming. Rice is mainly grown in paddy fields or terraced fields, whereas wheat is cultivated in small to medium-sized farms.
To summarize:
- Plantation farming is a type of commercial farming that involves the large-scale cultivation of a single crop on a large area of land.
- Rubber is an example of a crop that is commonly grown in plantations.
- Rubber plantations are mainly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and India.
- Rice and wheat are not examples of plantation farming.

Explanation:
The rearing of silkworms for the production of silk is called sericulture. Here's a detailed explanation:
Definition:
Sericulture refers to the process of cultivating silkworms and extracting silk from their cocoons.
Process:
1. Rearing Silkworms:
- The process begins with the hatching of silkworm eggs.
- The tiny silkworm larvae are then placed on specially designed trays.
- These trays are filled with mulberry leaves, which are the primary food source for silkworms.
- The silkworms feed on the mulberry leaves and grow rapidly.
2. Spinning Cocoons:
- As the silkworms grow, they undergo a molting process several times, shedding their skin to accommodate their increasing size.
- After the final molt, the silkworms start spinning their cocoons using a single thread of silk produced from their salivary glands.
- They continue to spin the silk thread around themselves for about 2-3 days until the entire cocoon is formed.
3. Harvesting Silk:
- Once the cocoons are fully formed, they are carefully harvested.
- The cocoons are then boiled or steamed to kill the pupae inside.
- This process prevents the pupae from breaking the silk thread while trying to emerge as moths.
- After boiling, the silk threads are carefully unraveled from the cocoons.
- Multiple silk threads are combined to form a single, strong thread, which is then wound onto spools.
4. Further Processing:
- The harvested silk thread is further processed to remove impurities and make it suitable for weaving.
- It may undergo processes like degumming, dyeing, and spinning to create different types of silk fabrics.
Importance of Sericulture:
- Sericulture is an important industry as silk is a valuable and highly sought-after natural fiber.
- It provides employment opportunities for many people, especially in regions where sericulture is prevalent.
- Silk production contributes to the economy of countries involved in sericulture.
- Silk fabrics are widely used in the textile industry for making clothing, accessories, and home furnishings.
Therefore, the correct answer is option C: Sericulture.

Which of the following crops is not a millet?

Answer: B (Maize)

Explanation:

Definition: Millets are a group of small-seeded grasses that are cultivated as cereal crops or grains for human consumption. They are known for their nutritional value and are used in various culinary preparations.

Identification of Non-Millet Crop:

• Jowar: Jowar, also known as sorghum, is a type of millet. It is widely grown and consumed in India and other parts of the world.


• Maize: Maize, also known as corn, is not a millet. It belongs to the grass family, but it is not classified as a millet crop.


• Ragi: Ragi, also known as finger millet, is a type of millet. It is commonly grown and consumed in India, particularly in the southern regions.


• Bajra: Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is a type of millet. It is widely cultivated in India and other parts of Asia and Africa.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, maize (B) is not a millet. Jowar (A), ragi (C), and bajra (D) are all types of millets.

Feature of Plantation Agriculture:
Plantation agriculture refers to the cultivation of a single cash crop on a large area of land. It involves the production of raw materials for industries. The features of plantation agriculture include:
1. Single crop: Plantation agriculture focuses on the cultivation of a single cash crop, such as tea, coffee, rubber, sugarcane, or palm oil. The entire agricultural land is dedicated to the cultivation of this crop.
2. Large area: Plantation agriculture requires a large area of land for the cultivation of the cash crop. The plantations are often spread over thousands of hectares, allowing for large-scale production.
3. Produce raw material for industries: The main purpose of plantation agriculture is to produce raw materials that can be used by various industries. For example, tea plantations produce tea leaves that are processed and used in the beverage industry.
4. Mechanized farming: Plantation agriculture often involves the use of mechanized farming techniques, such as tractors and machinery, to increase efficiency and productivity.
5. Capital-intensive: Plantation agriculture requires significant capital investment due to the large-scale production and the need for machinery, infrastructure, and labor.
6. Export-oriented: Plantation crops are usually produced for export to other countries. This contributes to the economy by earning foreign exchange.
In conclusion, plantation agriculture is characterized by the cultivation of a single cash crop on a large area of land. It aims to produce raw materials for industries and is often mechanized and export-oriented.

India's Leading Beverage Crop

Introduction:

India is a major producer and exporter of various agricultural commodities. One of the beverage crops in which India holds a significant position is tea.

Tea Production in India:

• India is the leading producer of tea in the world.


• The tea industry in India is mainly concentrated in the northeastern states of Assam, West Bengal, and Tripura.


• Assam tea is known for its strong and malty flavor, while Darjeeling tea from West Bengal is renowned for its delicate aroma.


• Other tea-producing states in India include Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Tea Export from India:

• India is also a major exporter of tea.


• It exports tea to various countries around the world, including the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, Iran, and Germany.


• Indian tea is known for its quality and diverse flavors, catering to the preferences of different tea-consuming nations.


• Tea exports contribute significantly to India's economy, earning foreign exchange and providing employment opportunities.

Conclusion:

India's position as the leading producer and exporter of tea in the world highlights the importance of the tea industry in the country's agricultural sector. The production and export of tea contribute significantly to India's economy and global trade.