Important Questions (2 mark): Food Security In India - Class 9 MCQ

The worst affected groups in rural areas facing food insecurity are:
- Landless people: Landless individuals or families who do not have access to agricultural land face significant challenges in ensuring food security for themselves and their families. Without the means to cultivate their own food, they are highly dependent on other sources for their food supply.
- Traditional artisans: Many traditional artisans in rural areas, such as weavers, potters, or blacksmiths, often face food insecurity due to limited income opportunities and fluctuating demand for their products. These artisans may struggle to earn a stable income, making it difficult for them to afford nutritious and sufficient food for themselves and their families.
- Beggars: Beggars in rural areas often experience extreme food insecurity as they rely on the generosity of others for their daily sustenance. Their lack of stable income or social support systems makes it challenging for them to meet their basic nutritional needs.
- All the above: All of the mentioned groups, including landless people, traditional artisans, and beggars, are worst affected by food insecurity in rural areas. They face various economic and social barriers that hinder their access to sufficient and nutritious food.
In conclusion, these vulnerable groups in rural areas are disproportionately affected by food insecurity, which poses significant challenges to their well-being and livelihoods. Efforts should be made to address these issues through targeted interventions and policies that promote inclusive and sustainable development in rural communities.

Definition of MSP:
- MSP stands for Minimum Support Price.
- It is a form of agricultural market intervention by the government of India to ensure that farmers get a fair price for their produce.
Explanation:
- The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is the price at which the government buys crops from farmers.
- It is set by the government to protect farmers from any sharp fall in crop prices.
- MSP acts as a safety net for farmers and provides them with an assured income for their produce.
- The MSP is determined by taking into consideration various factors such as the cost of production, market demand, and supply situation.
- The government announces MSP for various crops before the sowing season to provide farmers with a price benchmark.
- It helps in stabilizing the agricultural economy and ensuring food security in the country.
- The procurement of crops at MSP is done through government agencies such as the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state agencies.
- MSP is primarily applicable to major food crops such as wheat, rice, pulses, and oilseeds.
Conclusion:
- MSP refers to Minimum Support Price and is an important policy tool used by the government to support farmers and ensure their economic well-being.

By use of HYD seeds because by growing HYV seeds we will get a Green Crops and they will produce food grains which means green revolution. HYV seeds stands for High Yielding Variety seeds. These are seeds that have been developed through scientific research to produce higher yields compared to traditional varieties. 

A public distribution shop, also known as fair price shop (FPS), is a part of India's public system established by the Government of India which distributes rations at a subsidized price to the poor.

Revamped Public Distribution System (RPDS) was launched in June 1992 in 1775 blocks throughout the country. RPDS was launched with a view to strengthen and streamline the PDS as well as to improve its reach poor families especially in the far-flung, hilly, remote and inaccessible areas.

White Revolution of the country is associated with milk:

• The White Revolution, also known as Operation Flood, was a successful program in India that aimed to increase milk production and make the country self-sufficient in milk production.


• The program was launched in 1970 by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) under the leadership of Dr. Verghese Kurien.


• It focused on improving milk production, processing, and distribution systems in India.


• The main objective of the White Revolution was to replicate the success of the Green Revolution in the agricultural sector to the dairy industry.


• One of the key initiatives of the White Revolution was the formation of dairy cooperatives, known as milk producers' cooperative societies (MPCS), at the village level.


• These cooperatives aimed to empower farmers and provide them with access to modern techniques, equipment, and markets for their milk.


• The White Revolution led to a significant increase in milk production in India, making the country the largest milk producer in the world.


• It also helped in improving the socio-economic conditions of rural milk producers by providing them with a regular source of income.


• The success of the White Revolution in India inspired other countries to implement similar programs to boost their milk production.

Therefore, the correct answer is B: milk. The White Revolution of the country is associated with milk.

Annapurna Scheme (APS) meets the food requirements of:
The Annapurna Scheme (APS) is a social welfare program implemented by the Government of India. It aims to meet the food requirements of specific vulnerable groups in the country. The scheme provides food security and nutrition to those who are unable to fend for themselves due to old age, disability, or other social factors. The APS primarily caters to the following groups:
A. Indigent senior citizens:
- The Annapurna Scheme targets senior citizens who are below the poverty line and have no regular means of income.
- It provides a monthly food subsidy to eligible individuals to ensure they have access to nutritious meals.
B. Children:
- Although the Annapurna Scheme does not specifically mention children, it indirectly benefits them.
- Indigent families with children may receive support through the scheme, ensuring that their food requirements are met.
C. Pregnant ladies:
- Pregnant women who fall under the indigent category and lack sufficient means to provide for themselves are included in the Annapurna Scheme.
- The scheme aims to ensure that pregnant women have access to adequate nutrition during this critical phase.
D. Young persons:
- The Annapurna Scheme does not explicitly target young persons.
- However, if young individuals fall under the indigent category and have no means of income, they may be eligible for assistance under the scheme.
In conclusion, the Annapurna Scheme primarily focuses on meeting the food requirements of indigent senior citizens. However, it indirectly benefits other vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant ladies, and young persons, who meet the eligibility criteria. The scheme plays a crucial role in providing food security and nutrition to those who are most in need.

Antyodaya cards are a type of ration card issued in India. They are specifically meant for the "poorest of the poor" in society who are unable to afford basic necessities. These cards aim to provide subsidized food grains and other essential commodities to those who are most in need. Let's break down the details:
What are Antyodaya cards?
- Antyodaya cards are a type of ration card issued by the government of India.
- They are meant for the poorest of the poor in society.
- These cards are specifically designed to provide food security and other essential commodities to those who are unable to afford them.
Who are eligible for Antyodaya cards?
- The eligibility for Antyodaya cards is determined based on the economic condition of the applicant.
- The cards are typically issued to households that fall under the category of the "poorest of the poor."
- This includes people who are homeless, destitute, daily wage laborers, and other marginalized sections of society.
Benefits of Antyodaya cards:
- Antyodaya cardholders are entitled to subsidized food grains and other essential commodities.
- They can purchase these items at a lower cost compared to the open market rates.
- The cardholders are given priority in various welfare schemes and government programs.
Issuance and management of Antyodaya cards:
- The issuance and management of Antyodaya cards are handled by the respective state governments in India.
- Applicants need to submit the required documents and meet the eligibility criteria to obtain these cards.
- The cards are generally issued in the name of the head of the household.
In conclusion, Antyodaya cards are specifically meant for the "poorest of the poor" in society who are unable to afford basic necessities. These cards aim to provide subsidized food grains and other essential commodities to those who are most in need.

Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Annapurna Scheme (APS)
These two schemes, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Annapurna Scheme (APS), are linked with the public distribution system in India.
Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)
- AAY is a government scheme launched in 2000 aimed at providing highly subsidized food grains to the poorest of the poor in India.
- It targets the poorest families in rural and urban areas who are unable to afford food at market prices.
- Under this scheme, eligible households are provided with 35 kilograms of food grains per month at a highly subsidized rate.
- The eligible beneficiaries are identified by the respective state governments.
Annapurna Scheme (APS)
- APS is a government scheme launched in 2000 to provide food security to senior citizens who are eligible for National Old Age Pension (NOAP) but are not receiving it.
- It aims to provide 10 kilograms of food grains per month to eligible senior citizens free of cost.
- The beneficiaries of this scheme are identified by the respective state governments.
- APS is implemented through the existing network of fair price shops.
Link with Public Distribution System (PDS)
- Both AAY and APS are part of the public distribution system (PDS) in India.
- PDS is a government-run system that aims to provide essential commodities, including food grains, at affordable prices to the general public.
- AAY and APS are specific schemes within the PDS that target specific categories of beneficiaries, such as the poorest families and senior citizens, respectively.
- The food grains provided under these schemes are distributed through the existing network of fair price shops, which are part of the PDS.
In conclusion, AAY and APS are linked with the public distribution system in India, as they are implemented through the existing network of fair price shops and aim to provide subsidized food grains to specific categories of beneficiaries.

Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) - Foodgrains Allocation:
The Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) is a scheme implemented by the Government of India to provide subsidized foodgrains to eligible households. The allocation of foodgrains per family per month under TPDS is as follows:
A. 40 kg:
- This option is incorrect as it does not correspond to the actual allocation under TPDS.
B. 35 kg:
- This is the correct answer.
- Under TPDS, eligible families receive 35 kg of foodgrains per month.
C. 20 kg:
- This option is incorrect as it does not correspond to the actual allocation under TPDS.
D. 25 kg:
- This option is incorrect as it does not correspond to the actual allocation under TPDS.
In conclusion, the correct answer is B. 35 kg.

Answer:
State with 94% ration shops run by cooperatives:
- Tamil Nadu
Detailed
- The question asks about the state in which 94% of ration shops are run by cooperatives.
- The correct answer is Tamil Nadu.
- Here is a detailed explanation of why Tamil Nadu is the correct answer:
Cooperatives in Tamil Nadu:
- Tamil Nadu has a strong tradition of cooperative societies in various sectors, including the ration shop system.
- The state government has actively promoted and supported the establishment of cooperative societies to ensure the efficient distribution of essential commodities, including food grains.
- Cooperatives play a crucial role in managing and operating ration shops in the state.
Importance of Cooperatives in Ration Shops:
- Cooperatives ensure the fair and transparent distribution of subsidized food grains to the public.
- They help in reducing corruption and ensuring that the benefits of the public distribution system reach the intended beneficiaries.
- Cooperatives also provide employment opportunities and empower local communities.
Other States:
- While Tamil Nadu has the highest percentage of ration shops run by cooperatives, other states also have cooperatives operating ration shops to varying degrees.
- Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Bihar also have a significant presence of cooperative-run ration shops, but their percentage may be lower than Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion:
- In conclusion, Tamil Nadu has the highest percentage (94%) of ration shops run by cooperatives compared to other states mentioned in the options.

The correct answer is A as In coverage and public expenditure, it is considered to be the most important food security network. However, the food grains supplied by the ration shops are not enough to meet the consumption needs of the poor or are of inferior quality. The average level of consumption of PDS grains in India is only 1 kg per person / month.

Academy of Development Science has facilitated a network of NGOs for setting up grain banks in different regions.
ADS organises training and capacity building programmes on food security for NGOs. Grain Bank are now slowly taking shape in different parts of Maharashtra.
ADS efforts to set up the Grain Bank is paying rich dividends.
 

Minimum Support Price (MSP) and its purpose

The Minimum Support Price (MSP) is a price set by the government to provide support and incentives to farmers for raising agricultural production. It is an important policy tool used to stabilize agricultural markets and ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce.

Purpose of MSP:

1. Incentives to farmers for raising production: The primary objective of MSP is to encourage farmers to increase their agricultural production. By providing a guaranteed minimum price for their crops, farmers are motivated to invest in modern farming techniques, use better seeds, and adopt efficient agricultural practices.


2. Price stability and market intervention: MSP helps in maintaining price stability in the market. By setting a floor price for crops, the government ensures that farmers do not suffer from drastic price fluctuations and market uncertainties. It acts as a safety net for farmers.


3. Income support: MSP provides income support to farmers by assuring them a fair price for their produce. This helps in improving the economic condition of farmers and reducing their dependence on loans and moneylenders.


4. Food security: MSP plays a crucial role in ensuring food security for the nation. By providing incentives to farmers, it promotes the production of essential food crops, which helps in maintaining a stable supply of food in the market.


5. Rural development: MSP contributes to rural development by increasing the income of farmers, improving their living standards, and reducing rural-urban migration. It also helps in the overall development of rural areas through increased agricultural activities.

Therefore, the correct answer is A: incentives to farmers for raising production. MSP is not meant to provide incentives to traders or moneylenders, but rather to support and uplift the agricultural community.

Seasonal hunger is the hunger that cycles around the harvest and sowing season of seasonal activities like agriculture. Seasonal hunger is found in rural areas in some cases and in urban areas also. This type of hunger exists when a person is unable to get work for the entire year.

Green Revolution and its impact on crop production:
The Green Revolution, which occurred during the mid-20th century, was a period of significant technological advancements in agriculture. It aimed to increase agricultural productivity and reduce hunger and poverty in developing countries. The introduction of high-yielding crop varieties, improved irrigation techniques, and the use of fertilizers and pesticides were some of the key components of the Green Revolution.
Impact on crop production:
During the Green Revolution, several crops experienced increased production. However, the largest increase in production was observed in wheat. Here are the reasons why wheat registered the largest increase:
1. Introduction of high-yielding varieties: High-yielding wheat varieties, such as the semi-dwarf varieties developed by Norman Borlaug, played a crucial role in increasing wheat production. These varieties had shorter stems, allowing them to allocate more energy to grain production rather than stem growth.
2. Adoption of modern agricultural practices: Farmers embraced modern agricultural practices, including the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which significantly enhanced wheat yields. The application of fertilizers provided essential nutrients to the crops, while pesticides protected them from pests and diseases.
3. Availability of irrigation facilities: The Green Revolution also focused on improving irrigation techniques, ensuring that wheat crops had access to sufficient water throughout their growing period. The availability of irrigation facilities contributed to higher yields and increased production.
4. Government support and subsidies: Many governments provided support to farmers by offering subsidies on inputs like fertilizers and irrigation facilities. This support encouraged farmers to adopt the new technologies and practices associated with the Green Revolution, including those specific to wheat cultivation.
5. Global dissemination of knowledge and technology: The success of the Green Revolution in increasing wheat production in countries like India and Mexico led to the global dissemination of knowledge and technology. This resulted in the adoption of high-yielding wheat varieties and modern agricultural practices in various other countries, further boosting wheat production.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, wheat registered the largest increase in production as a result of the Green Revolution. The introduction of high-yielding varieties, adoption of modern agricultural practices, availability of irrigation facilities, government support, and global dissemination of knowledge and technology all contributed to the significant growth in wheat production during this period.

The correct answer is D as a buffer stock scheme is an attempt to use commodity storage for the purposes of stabilising prices in an entire economy or, more commonly, an individual (commodity) market. Specifically, commodities are bought when there is a surplus in the economy, stored, and are then sold from these stores when there are economic shortages in the economy.

Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Subsidised Rate for Wheat:
Under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), which is a government initiative to provide food security to the poorest of the poor, subsidised rates are offered for essential food items such as wheat. The subsidised rate for wheat under AAY is:
Option B: Rs 2/- per kg
Explanation:
Here are the key points to understand why the correct answer is option B:
1. Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY): It is a scheme launched by the Government of India aimed at providing highly subsidised food to the poorest households in the country. The scheme was introduced in December 2000.
2. Wheat: Wheat is one of the essential food grains provided under AAY. It is a staple food item for a large population in India.
3. Subsidised Rate: Under AAY, wheat is made available to eligible beneficiaries at a subsidised rate. This means that the government provides financial assistance to reduce the cost of wheat for the beneficiaries.
4. Subsidised Rate for Wheat: The correct answer is option B, which states that the subsidised rate for wheat under AAY is Rs 2/- per kg. This means that eligible beneficiaries can purchase wheat at this reduced price.
In conclusion, under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), the subsidised rate for wheat is Rs 2/- per kg. This initiative aims to ensure food security for the poorest households in India.

Food security means ensuring that all people have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. It is a complex issue that involves multiple dimensions, including availability, accessibility, and affordability of food.
Availability of food:
- Refers to the presence of an adequate supply of food in a given area or region.
- It involves the production, distribution, and storage of food to meet the demand of the population.
- Availability is influenced by factors such as agricultural productivity, trade policies, infrastructure, and food waste.
Accessibility of food:
- Refers to the ability of individuals to obtain food physically and economically.
- It includes factors such as proximity to food sources, transportation, and the ability to afford food.
- Accessibility is influenced by factors such as income levels, employment opportunities, social safety nets, and infrastructure.
Affordability of food:
- Refers to the ability of individuals to purchase food at a reasonable cost.
- It is influenced by factors such as income levels, food prices, inflation rates, and availability of food subsidies or assistance programs.
- Affordability is particularly important for vulnerable populations with limited financial resources.
All of the above:
- Food security cannot be achieved without addressing all three dimensions: availability, accessibility, and affordability of food.
- All individuals need not only access to food but also the ability to obtain it physically, economically, and without compromising their health and well-being.
In conclusion, food security encompasses the availability, accessibility, and affordability of food. It is a complex issue that requires addressing various factors to ensure that everyone has access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.

Meteorologists predict drought based on precipitation patterns, stream flow, and moisture of soil over long periods of time. In the United States, droughts are most likely to occur in the Midwest and the South.

Explanation:
The cycle of food growing and harvesting is closely related to hunger because it determines the availability of food. Here is a detailed explanation of why hunger is related to the cycle of food growing and harvesting:
1. Food availability:
- The cycle of food growing and harvesting determines when and how much food is available for consumption.
- During the growing season, crops are planted and nurtured, and they eventually reach maturity and are ready for harvest.
- After the harvest, the food is processed, transported, and distributed to various markets and stores for consumers to purchase.
2. Seasonal variations:
- The cycle of food growing and harvesting is influenced by seasonal variations, such as changes in temperature, rainfall, and daylight hours.
- Different crops have specific growing seasons, and their availability depends on these seasonal variations.
- For example, fruits and vegetables are typically available during the warmer months, while grains and root crops can be harvested in cooler months.
3. Impact on food prices:
- The availability of food during different seasons can affect its prices in the market.
- When a particular crop is in high demand but limited supply due to seasonal factors, its prices may increase.
- This can make it difficult for some people, especially those with limited financial resources, to afford nutritious food.
4. Food security:
- The cycle of food growing and harvesting is crucial for ensuring food security, which refers to the availability and access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food.
- In regions where agriculture is the primary source of food, disruptions in the growing and harvesting cycle, such as droughts or floods, can lead to food shortages and increased hunger.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, hunger is closely related to the cycle of food growing and harvesting. The availability of food, seasonal variations, impact on food prices, and food security are all factors that connect hunger to the cycle of food production.

The basic cause of chronic hunger is low income.

The reasons behind this are as follows:

• Insufficient financial resources: People with low income often struggle to afford enough food to meet their daily calorie and nutrient needs.


• Limited access to nutritious food: Low-income individuals may have limited access to grocery stores or markets that offer a variety of nutritious foods.


• Unemployment or underemployment: Lack of work or low-paying jobs can contribute to chronic hunger, as individuals may not have a stable income to support their food needs.


• High food prices: In some cases, the cost of food may be prohibitively high, making it difficult for individuals with low income to afford an adequate diet.


• Poverty and inequality: Chronic hunger is often a result of broader social and economic issues, such as poverty and inequality, which can limit individuals' access to resources and opportunities.

Overall, addressing chronic hunger requires addressing the underlying causes of low income and implementing strategies that promote economic development, job creation, and social support systems to ensure individuals have the resources necessary to meet their basic food needs.

Causes of seasonal hunger include lack of access to food, high food prices, lack of food storage space, environmental instability, and lack of diversified crops. ... Children who suffer from chronic hunger are particularly vulnerable, developing more slowly — both mentally and physically.

The correct option is C.

You can obtain an application for a ration card from your ration office or district office. There are three types of cards, Yellow, orange and white. The yellow cards are given to families below the poverty line.

Before the NFSA was enacted, there were three types of ration cards:

• Above Poverty Line (APL) ration cards that were issued to households living above the poverty line (as estimated by the Planning Commission). These households received 15 kilogram of food grain (based on availability).

• Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration cards that were issued to households living below the poverty line. These households received 25-35 kilograms of food grain.

• Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration cards that were issued to "poorest of poor" households. These households received 35 kilograms of food grain.

The decision led to the formulation of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme – one of the most prestigious and premier national human resource development programmes of the GOI. The scheme was launched on 2 October 1975 in 33 (4 rural, 18 urban, 11 tribal) blocks.