InfoCrop Simulation Model, developed by Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI)

The correct answer is option 'B', Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). The InfoCrop Simulation Model is a computer-based simulation model that was recently seen in the news.

Explanation:

The InfoCrop Simulation Model is a software tool developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) to simulate and predict crop growth, development, and yield under various environmental conditions and management practices. It is one of the widely used models in agricultural research and helps in understanding the complex interactions between crops and the environment.

The model incorporates several factors such as climate, soil, crop physiology, and management practices to simulate crop growth and yield. It takes into account factors like temperature, rainfall, solar radiation, soil moisture, nutrient availability, and pest/disease incidence to predict crop performance.

Key features of the InfoCrop Simulation Model:
- Climate data: The model uses historical climate data or weather data to simulate the crop growth and yield. It takes into account parameters like temperature, rainfall, and solar radiation to predict the crop performance.
- Crop physiology: The model incorporates the physiological processes of the crop, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration, to simulate the growth and development of the crop. It also considers the crop's response to various environmental factors.
- Soil characteristics: The model considers the soil characteristics like soil texture, organic matter content, and nutrient availability to simulate crop growth. It takes into account the nutrient uptake by the crop and the soil water availability to predict the crop yield.
- Management practices: The model also considers various management practices like irrigation, fertilization, and crop protection measures. It helps in assessing the impact of different management practices on crop growth and yield.
- Prediction of crop yield: The InfoCrop Simulation Model provides estimates of crop yield under different scenarios. It can be used to evaluate the impact of climate change, land use changes, and different management practices on crop productivity.

The InfoCrop Simulation Model is a valuable tool for agricultural research, as it helps in understanding the crop-environment interactions and predicting crop performance. It can be used by researchers, policymakers, and farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop management and resource allocation.