Keywords To Remember
- Agriculture
- Definition: The practice of cultivating the soil, growing crops, and rearing animals for food, raw materials, and other products.
- Nomadic Herding
- Definition: A form of animal husbandry where people move from place to place with their herds in search of pasture for their animals.
- Shifting Agriculture
- Definition: A traditional farming method where an area of forest is cleared for cultivation, and once the soil becomes less fertile, the farmers move to another area. This is commonly known as slash-and-burn agriculture.
- Intensive Subsistence Agriculture
- Definition: A form of agriculture where farmers grow crops on small land plots, using intensive labor and inputs like fertilizers and irrigation to maximize yields.
- Extensive Agriculture
- Definition: Large-scale farming that uses modern machinery and methods to cultivate crops over vast expanses of land, typically in sparsely populated regions.
- Plantation Agriculture
- Definition: A type of large-scale commercial agriculture in tropical or subtropical regions where a single crop is grown for export or sale, such as tea, coffee, or rubber.
- Livestock Ranching
- Definition: The practice of raising animals, especially cattle, sheep, and goats, for commercial purposes, often in large, open areas, such as grasslands or ranches.
- Dairy Farming
- Definition: The farming practice focused on the production of milk and other dairy products, such as cheese and butter, through the rearing of dairy cows.
- Mixed Farming
- Definition: An agricultural system in which both crops and livestock are raised together on the same farm, providing income from both sources.
- Organic Farming
- Definition: A method of farming that relies on natural processes and materials, such as organic manure, crop rotation, and pest control using natural methods instead of synthetic chemicals or fertilizers.
- Cereal Crops
- Definition: Plants grown for their edible grains, such as wheat, rice, corn, and millet, which are staple foods in many countries.
- Fibre Crops
- Definition: Crops grown primarily for their fiber content, which is used in the production of textiles and other materials. Examples include cotton, jute, and hemp.
- Beverage Crops
- Definition: Crops grown for producing beverages, such as tea, coffee, cocoa, and other similar products.
- HYV (High Yielding Variety) Seeds
- Definition: Seeds that are specifically developed to produce higher crop yields compared to traditional seeds, often through scientific breeding and genetic modification.
- Retting
- Definition: The process of soaking plant fibers in water to soften them and separate the fibers from the plant stalks, often used in the production of jute.
- Monsoon Regions
- Definition: Areas where the climate is characterized by seasonal rains, often occurring between June and September, which support intensive farming.
- Alluvial Soil
- Definition: Soil that is formed by the deposition of silt, sand, and clay by rivers and streams, making it rich in nutrients and ideal for agriculture, especially for crops like rice.
- Loamy Soil
- Definition: A fertile soil composed of sand, silt, and clay in roughly equal proportions, providing good drainage while retaining moisture, making it ideal for a wide variety of crops.
- Terracing
- Definition: The process of creating stepped platforms on hilly terrain to prevent soil erosion and provide flat surfaces for agriculture.
- Irrigation
- Definition: The artificial application of water to land to assist in the growth of crops, especially in areas where rainfall is insufficient or irregular.
- Slash-and-Burn Agriculture
- Definition: A farming method where forests are cleared by cutting down trees and then burning them to create arable land for farming, typically practiced in tropical regions.
- Crop Specialization
- Definition: A form of commercial agriculture where only one type of crop is grown on a large scale, often for export or mass production.
- Green Revolution
- Definition: A set of agricultural reforms that introduced high-yielding varieties of seeds, chemical fertilizers, and advanced irrigation techniques to improve food production, particularly in developing countries.
- Capital Intensive Farming
- Definition: Farming that requires significant financial investment in machinery, technology, fertilizers, and other inputs, often seen in commercial agriculture.
- Sub-Tropical Regions
- Definition: Areas located just above and below the tropics that experience mild winters and hot, humid summers, making them ideal for certain crops like tea, cotton, and citrus fruits.
- Temperate Regions
- Definition: Areas with moderate climate conditions, characterized by distinct seasons, where crops like wheat and barley thrive.
Something to Know
Tick (✔️) the correct option.
- Millets are also known as –
(a) fine grains
(b) multigrains
(c) artificial grains
(d) coarse grains
Answer – (d) coarse grains
- Tea is a—
(a) cereal crop
(b) fibre crop
(c) fruit crop
(d) beverage crop
Answer – (d) beverage crop
- Who amongst the following are the nomadic herders of the Himalayan area?
(a) Bhotiyas
(b) Munda
(c) Sid di
(d) Jarawas
Answer – (a) Bhotiyas
- Slash and burn practice of agriculture is also known as—
(a) plantation agriculture
(b) intensive subsistence agriculture
(c) shifting agriculture
(d) extensive agriculture
Answer – (c) shifting agriculture
- The type of commercial agriculture, which is practised on a large estate for growing of a single crop continuously for several years, is known as—
(a) livestock ranching
(b) extensive agriculture
(c) plantation agriculture
(d) organic farming
Answer – (c) plantation agriculture
B. Fill in the blanks.
- __________ is grown in the mid-latitudinal and dry sub-tropical regions.
Answer – Wheate
- Cotton, __________ and natural silk are natural fibres.
Answer – Hute
- Coffee plant needs __________ and __________ climate.
Answer – tropical, humid
- Deltas, river valleys, coastal plains with rainfall above 100 cm are ideal for the cultivation of __________ .
Answer – rice
- When animals are reared along with the cultivation of land, it is known as __________ farming.
Answer – mixed
C.Write a technical term or an appropriate word for each of the following statements.
- The science and art of raising crops, rearing of livestock, forestry and fishing.
Answer – Agriculture
- A type of agricultural system in which a farmer and his family grow crop for self-sustenance.
Answer – Subsistence farming
- Agriculture practised on a very large scale for crop specialisation.
Answer – Commercial farming
- The commercial grazing of farm animals in temperate grasslands to obtain meat, wool, hides, skins and some dairy products.
Answer – Livestock ranching
- People who migrate along with their animals from one place to another in search of fodder for their animals.
Answer – Nomadic herders
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- When and how did agriculture start along the river valleys? What is the wider definition of agriculture now?
Answer – Agriculture started along river valleys around 10,000 years ago. People began cultivating crops in fertile soils left by floods and used water from rivers for irrigation. Over time, this practice expanded with the development of tools and techniques. The wider definition of agriculture today includes the cultivation of crops, the rearing of animals, forestry, fishing, and the production of raw materials from the land and water.
- Highlight the importance of agriculture for people around the world.
Answer – Agriculture is essential for providing food, raw materials, and employment to billions of people. It sustains economies, especially in developing countries, by supporting livelihoods. Additionally, agriculture promotes trade, ensures food security, and fosters rural development. It also contributes to environmental conservation through sustainable practices.
- Describe any three new techniques used in agriculture to increase the production of crops
Answer – Genetically Modified Crops (GMOs): Crops that are altered genetically to improve yield, resist pests, and tolerate harsh conditions.
Drip Irrigation: A method of watering crops directly at the roots to save water and enhance crop growth.
Vertical Farming: Growing crops in vertically stacked layers to optimize space and resources, especially in urban areas.
- What type of soil, temperature and rainfall is required for the cultivation of wheat and rice?
Answer – Wheat: Requires loamy soil with good drainage, temperatures between 10-15°C, and annual rainfall of 75-100 cm.
Rice: Requires clayey soil, warm temperatures of 20-30°C, and high rainfall, typically over 100 cm annually.
- What is meant by nomadic herding? Which are the most important regions for nomadic herding?
Answer – Nomadic herding is a form of agriculture where people move from place to place with their livestock, typically in search of grazing lands. Important regions for nomadic herding include parts of Central Asia, the Sahel region of Africa, and the Himalayan and Arctic regions.
E. Answer the following questions.
- What are the major differences between the farm agriculture of USA and India?
Answer – arm Size: In the USA, farms are large, highly mechanized, and extensive, whereas in India, farms are generally smaller and fragmented.
Mechanization: The USA uses advanced machinery for planting, harvesting, and irrigation, whereas India relies more on manual labour, especially in rural areas.
Type of Agriculture: The USA practices mostly commercial farming, growing a wide range of crops for international trade. India practices both subsistence and commercial farming, with a strong focus on food crops for domestic consumption.
Irrigation: In the USA, irrigation is highly mechanized, often utilizing advanced technologies, while in India, irrigation can be inefficient and inconsistent, with a reliance on traditional methods.
Labour: In India, agriculture is labour-intensive, involving many workers, while in the USA, labour is more specialized and less numerous, due to mechanization.
- Describe any five advantages of using biotechnology for agricultural development.
Answer – Increased Crop Yields: Biotechnology can develop crops that grow faster and produce higher yields, helping to feed a growing global population.
Pest Resistance: Genetically modified (GM) crops can be engineered to resist pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Drought Tolerance: Biotechnology can create crops that are more resistant to drought, ensuring food security in arid regions.
Nutritional Enhancement: Crops can be engineered to have higher nutritional content, helping to combat malnutrition in developing regions.
Disease Resistance: Biotechnology can help in the development of disease-resistant crops, reducing losses from plant diseases.
- Explain any three physical factors influencing the agricultural development in an area
Answer – Climate: Temperature, rainfall, and seasonal variations determine the types of crops that can be grown and the agricultural productivity in an area.
Soil Quality: Fertile soils, rich in nutrients, support better crop growth, while poor soils may limit agricultural development. Soil pH, texture, and organic matter are important factors.
Topography: The terrain (flat or hilly) affects irrigation, mechanization, and accessibility for farming activities. Hilly areas may have limited agricultural potential, while flat plains are more suitable for large-scale farming.
- How is subsistence agriculture different from the commercial agriculture? in your opinion, which one is more useful for India?
Answer – Subsistence Agriculture: This is primarily practiced for self-consumption, with little surplus for sale. It relies on simple tools, manual labour, and small plots of land. Farmers grow food crops for their families’ needs.
Commercial Agriculture: This involves growing crops and raising livestock for sale in local or global markets. It is usually larger in scale, mechanized, and focused on cash crops.
In My Opinion, subsistence agriculture is more useful for India in rural areas as it provides food security to families and supports local economies. However, commercial agriculture is essential for economic growth, exports, and employment in urban and semi-urban areas.
- How do the size of land holdings, labour and capital influence the agricultural development in an area? Explain.
Answer – Size of Land Holdings: Large land holdings allow for better economies of scale, enabling the use of modern machinery and efficient farming methods. Smaller holdings may limit productivity and discourage investment in advanced techniques.
Labour: The availability of skilled and unskilled labour impacts the type of agriculture practiced. In labour-abundant areas, labour-intensive farming (like rice cultivation) is common. In regions with a shortage of labour, mechanization becomes crucial for efficient farming.
Capital: Capital is necessary for investing in modern technology, fertilizers, irrigation systems, and machinery. Without sufficient capital, farmers may be unable to adopt new agricultural techniques, hindering development.
Value Based Question
Agriculture has been the mainstay of the Indian economy. Today, the farmers’ welfare has become a focus to improve the conditions of the Indian farming system. There is definitely a need to increase the net income of farmers, reduce the cost of cultivation, enable higher yield per unit and provision of remunerative prices. Some of the important initiative taken up for the benefits of farmers include—
— Introduction of Soil Health Card Scheme to assess the nutrient levels available in the soil.
— Promotion of Neem-coated Urea to regulate the use of urea and cutting down its cost.
— Implementation of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna to promote organic farming.
— Implementation of National Crop Insurance Scheme to protect the farmers from crop losses.
— Introduction of Minimum Support Price to eliminate distress sale of agricultural produce by farmers.
- Suggest some more measures which can improve the conditions of farmers in India.
Answer – Access to Credit: Providing easy access to affordable credit to farmers can help them invest in better technologies, seeds, and equipment for farming.
Improved Irrigation Facilities: Expanding irrigation infrastructure to cover more areas would reduce farmers’ dependence on monsoons, thereby improving agricultural productivity.
Farmers’ Training and Awareness Programs: Educating farmers about modern farming techniques, crop diversification, pest management, and sustainable practices can help enhance yields and reduce losses.
Post-Harvest Management: Development of better storage facilities, cold chains, and food processing units will reduce wastage and increase income from surplus produce.
Market Linkages: Ensuring that farmers have better access to markets and receive fair prices for their produce through direct selling platforms or government-backed procurement systems.
Promotion of Co-operatives: Encouraging farmers to join co-operatives can help them negotiate better prices for their produce and inputs, providing them with collective bargaining power.
Promotion of Water Conservation Techniques: Initiating water-efficient farming methods like drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and water management practices can help improve agricultural sustainability.
- Are genetically modified crops the correct option to create food sufficiency for the growing population of the country?
Answer – Genetically modified (GM) crops can play an important role in ensuring food security in India, especially in the face of challenges like climate change, soil degradation, and water scarcity. Here are some reasons why GM crops could be beneficial:
Increased Yield: GM crops are designed to have higher yields and be resistant to pests and diseases, helping to produce more food on the same land area.
Drought and Pest Resistance: Certain GM crops are engineered to tolerate drought or resist specific pests, reducing losses and ensuring consistent production despite environmental challenges.
Nutritional Enhancement: GM crops can be bio-fortified to address malnutrition by increasing the nutrient content of staple crops, such as rice or maize.
Reduced Use of Pesticides: With built-in pest resistance, GM crops can reduce the need for harmful pesticides, benefiting both farmers and the environment.
However, there are concerns regarding the long-term environmental impact, safety, and dependence on seed companies for GM crops. Additionally, public perception and regulatory frameworks need to be carefully considered. While GM crops can be a part of the solution, they should be integrated with sustainable farming practices and local agricultural knowledge to address food sufficiency effectively.
(Map Skill)
On an outline political map of India, show the leading producer states of the following crops—
(a) Rice
(b) Wheat
(c) Cotton
(d) Jute
(e) Tea
(f) Coffee
Answer – Here is the list of leading producer states for each crop in India:
(a) Rice – The leading producer states of rice in India are:
West Bengal
Punjab
Uttar Pradesh
Odisha
Bihar
(b) Wheat – The leading producer states of wheat in India are:
Punjab
Haryana
Uttar Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh
Rajasthan
(c) Cotton – The leading producer states of cotton in India are:
Gujarat
Maharashtra
Telangana
Andhra Pradesh
Rajasthan
(d) Jute – The leading producer states of jute in India are:
West Bengal
Bihar
Assam
Odisha
Tripura
(e) Tea – The leading producer states of tea in India are:
Assam
West Bengal (Darjeeling)
Tamil Nadu
Kerala
(f) Coffee – The leading producer states of coffee in India are:
Karnataka
Kerala
Tamil Nadu
Something To Do
- Collect pictures of various agricultural implements and machines. Paste them in a scrap book with their names and the uses.
Answer – Here are some common agricultural implements and machines, along with their names and uses: (Student will paste the pictures)
Plough
Use: Used for tilling the soil, breaking up soil, and turning it over to prepare the land for sowing seeds.
Harrows
Use: Used to break up clods, level the soil, and mix the soil to improve aeration.
Seed Drill
Use: A machine used for sowing seeds at the correct depth and spacing. It also helps in precise seed placement.
Tractor
Use: A multi-purpose machine used for plowing, tilling, sowing, and harvesting, as well as transporting materials on the farm.
Combine Harvester
Use: A machine that combines the tasks of harvesting, threshing, and winnowing into one operation. It is widely used for harvesting cereals like wheat and rice.
Threshing Machine
Use: Used to separate the grains from the husks, stalks, and chaff.
Water Pump
Use: Used for irrigation, to draw water from wells, rivers, or ponds to irrigate the crops.
Sprayer
Use: Used for spraying pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers over crops to protect them from diseases and pests.
Fertilizer Spreader
Use: Used to distribute fertilizers evenly across the field.
Rice Transplanter
Use: A machine that helps in transplanting paddy seedlings from the nursery to the field.
You can paste pictures of these implements and machines and write their names and uses in your scrapbook.
- Collect information about the problems faced by the Indian farmers that cause poor yield of crops Suggest ways and means to tackle them.
Answer – Problems faced by Indian farmers:
Lack of Irrigation Facilities
Problem: A large percentage of farmers depend on monsoon for water. Uneven distribution and scarcity of water resources lead to crop failure.
Solution: Promote rainwater harvesting, create irrigation facilities like drip irrigation, and improve water management systems to ensure timely water supply.
Soil Degradation
Problem: Overuse of soil, lack of proper crop rotation, and excessive use of chemical fertilizers deplete the fertility of soil, leading to poor crop yield.
Solution: Promote organic farming, use of bio-fertilizers, and crop rotation methods. Implement soil health management programs and increase the use of green manures.
Inadequate Access to Modern Technology
Problem: Farmers in many regions still use outdated farming methods and lack access to modern machinery and high-yielding varieties of seeds.
Solution: Provide affordable access to advanced agricultural technologies, high-yielding seeds, and mechanization through government schemes, subsidies, and training programs.
Pests and Diseases
Problem: Crop-damaging pests and diseases lead to lower yields, and farmers lack the resources to control them effectively.
Solution: Promote integrated pest management (IPM), use of organic pesticides, and genetic engineering for pest-resistant crops.
Lack of Proper Storage and Marketing Facilities
Problem: Farmers often face post-harvest losses due to improper storage facilities and lack of proper market access, leading to lower income.
Solution: Build modern storage facilities and cold chains, and create better access to local and international markets by improving transportation and logistics.
Fluctuating Market Prices
Problem: Farmers face unpredictable price fluctuations for their produce, often leading to losses.
Solution: Implement minimum support prices (MSP), provide better price stabilization mechanisms, and encourage cooperative marketing.
Climate Change
Problem: Erratic weather patterns and extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, negatively impact crop yields.
Solution: Promote climate-resilient farming techniques, drought-resistant crops, and create awareness about climate change adaptation measures.
Debt Burden
Problem: Many farmers are trapped in a cycle of debt due to poor yields and high-interest loans, affecting their livelihood.
Solution: Provide financial literacy, easy access to credit at lower interest rates, and government support schemes like debt relief programs.
By addressing these problems, we can help increase the agricultural productivity in India and improve the livelihood of farmers.
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
Fill in the blanks
- __________ is the process of growing crops and raising livestock for food, fiber, and other products used to sustain and enhance human life.
Answer: Agriculture - The ________ system of farming involves the cultivation of one crop at a time on a large scale.
Answer: monoculture - __________ is the branch of agriculture concerned with the production of livestock, including cattle, sheep, and poultry.
Answer: Animal Husbandry - The ________ irrigation method saves water by delivering it directly to the roots of plants through pipes, tubes, or emitters.
Answer: Drip - __________ is the farming practice in which chemical fertilizers and pesticides are used to grow crops on a large scale.
Answer: Commercial farming
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Which of the following is a major cereal crop grown in India?
(a) Cotton
(b) Rice
(c) Jute
(d) Coffee
Answer: (b) Rice - Which type of agriculture is practiced in the Himalayan region for grazing animals?
(a) Nomadic herding
(b) Intensive subsistence agriculture
(c) Commercial agriculture
(d) Plantation agriculture
Answer: (a) Nomadic herding - What is the primary reason for the decline in soil fertility?
(a) Overuse of fertilizers
(b) Overgrazing
(c) Deforestation
(d) All of the above
Answer: (d) All of the above - Tea is grown primarily in which region of India?
(a) Punjab
(b) Assam
(c) Haryana
(d) Uttar Pradesh
Answer: (b) Assam - The process of growing crops and raising livestock for food and raw materials is known as:
(a) Aquaculture
(b) Agriculture
(c) Horticulture
(d) Floriculture
Answer: (b) Agriculture
True/False Questions
- The major food crop of India is wheat.
Answer: False (Rice is the major food crop) - Cotton is a tropical crop that requires high temperatures and moderate rainfall.
Answer: True - Green Revolution involved the use of organic fertilizers and natural pesticides.
Answer: False (It involved the use of chemical fertilizers and modern agricultural ) - Organic farming avoids the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Answer: True - Nomadic herding is primarily practiced in the desert regions of India.
Answer: True
Competency-Based Questions
- A farmer in your region is facing declining crop yield due to soil erosion. How would you recommend they manage the soil to improve crop production?
Answer: I would suggest practicing crop rotation, using organic fertilizers, and employing soil conservation methods like contour farming, terracing, and afforestation to prevent soil erosion. - Imagine you are an agricultural officer. Your responsibility is to help a farmer increase their yield. What modern technology and farming techniques would you introduce to the farmer?
Answer: I would introduce high-yielding varieties of seeds, drip irrigation, use of bio-fertilizers, and precision farming techniques to improve the efficiency and productivity of farming. - A region in India is facing irregular rainfall patterns, leading to crop failures. What steps can be taken to mitigate this problem and ensure stable crop production?
Answer: The region can adopt rainwater harvesting techniques, use drought-resistant crop varieties, implement efficient irrigation systems, and improve soil moisture conservation methods to reduce the impact of irregular rainfall.
High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions
- How does the commercialization of agriculture impact the environment and local communities? Provide a balanced view of both the positive and negative aspects.
Answer: Commercialization of agriculture boosts economic growth, provides employment, and improves access to a variety of crops. However, it can lead to environmental degradation through overuse of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and excessive water usage. Local communities may also face loss of traditional farming knowledge and over-dependence on external markets. - How would you compare the impact of traditional farming methods and modern farming techniques on the long-term sustainability of agriculture?
Answer: Traditional farming methods focus on sustainability, using natural fertilizers and rotating crops. However, they may be less efficient in terms of yield. Modern farming techniques increase productivity using chemical inputs, but they can lead to long-term environmental degradation and health problems. A balance between both is necessary for sustainable agricultural practices. - What role does biotechnology play in ensuring food security for a growing population, and what ethical concerns are associated with it?
Answer: Biotechnology can help produce genetically modified crops that are more resistant to pests, drought, and disease, leading to higher yields. However, ethical concerns include the potential risks to human health, environmental harm from cross-contamination, and the monopolization of seed production by large corporations.
Short Answer Questions
- What is organic farming?
Answer: Organic farming is a method of farming that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. It relies on natural processes, crop rotation, and organic fertilizers to maintain soil fertility and ecosystem balance. - How does crop rotation help in soil conservation?
Answer: Crop rotation helps in soil conservation by preventing the depletion of specific nutrients in the soil. It reduces pest buildup and minimizes the chances of soil erosion by maintaining soil structure. - What is the importance of irrigation in agriculture?
Answer: Irrigation is essential for providing water to crops, especially in regions with irregular rainfall. It ensures consistent crop growth and higher yields.
Long Answer Questions
- Discuss the various types of agriculture practiced in India.
Answer: India practices several types of agriculture, including:- Subsistence Agriculture: Farmers grow crops primarily for self-consumption. It is labour-intensive and often practiced on small landholdings.
- Commercial Agriculture: Crops are grown for sale in the market, with the use of modern machinery and technology. Examples include cotton, tea, and coffee cultivation.
- Plantation Agriculture: Large estates are used to grow a single crop, such as tea, coffee, rubber, and sugarcane.
- Mixed Farming: Involves the cultivation of crops and the rearing of livestock on the same farm, often practiced in temperate regions.
- Horticulture: The cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. This type of farming is common in areas with fertile soil and irrigation facilities.
- Explain the impact of climate change on agriculture and suggest measures to mitigate its effects.
Answer: Climate change leads to unpredictable weather patterns, increased frequency of extreme events like droughts, floods, and storms, and altered crop-growing seasons. To mitigate these effects, farmers should adopt climate-resilient crops, improve water management systems, practice sustainable farming techniques, and increase awareness about climate change adaptation strategies.
Additional Questions and Answer – 02
Fill in the Blanks
- Agricultureis the science and art of raising crops and rearing livestock.
- Alluvial soiland black soil are the most fertile soils for agriculture.
- Jhummingis a type of shifting agriculture practised in North-East India.
- Brazilis the largest producer of coffee in the world.
- West Bengalis the leading rice-producing state in India.
- Loamy soilis ideal for wheat cultivation.
- Rettingis the process used to separate jute fibres from the plant stem.
- Dairy farmingis a labour-intensive form of commercial agriculture focused on milk production.
- HYV seeds(High Yield Variety) help increase crop production significantly.
- Uttar Pradeshand Punjab are major wheat-producing states in India.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Which type of agriculture is practised on small plots in densely populated regions?
a) Extensive agriculture
b) Intensive subsistence agriculture
c) Plantation agriculture
d) Nomadic herding - Which crop is known as “makka” in India?
a) Wheat
b) Rice
c) Maize
d) Jowar - What is the primary requirement for tea cultivation?
a) Dry climate
b) 150–300 cm rainfall
c) Sandy soil
d) Low temperature - Which country is the largest exporter of cow milk?
a) India
b) New Zealand
c) USA
d) Netherlands - Which soil is best for cotton cultivation?
a) Red soil
b) Black soil
c) Laterite soil
d) Mountain soil - What is the main feature of shifting agriculture?
a) Use of tractors
b) Land abandonment after fertility loss
c) Large-scale irrigation
d) Monocropping - Which Indian state is the largest producer of jute?
a) Punjab
b) West Bengal
c) Gujarat
d) Kerala - Which of the following is NOT a millet?
a) Jowar
b) Bajra
c) Mustard
d) Ragi - What is “mixed farming”?
a) Growing only cash crops
b) Rearing livestock along with crop cultivation
c) Shifting cultivation
d) Organic farming - Which factor does NOT affect agriculture?
a) Climate
b) Soil
c) Language
d) Capital
True/False Questions
- Wheat requires frost during the harvesting period.(False)
- India is the second-largest producer of rice globally.(True)
- Nomadic herding is common in urban areas.(False)
- Cotton grows well in black soil.(True)
- Plantation agriculture focuses on multiple crops.(False – Single crop)
- HYV seeds reduce crop yield.(False – Increase yield)
- Jute is mainly grown in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta.(True)
- Dairy farming is capital-intensive.(True)
- Extensive agriculture is practised in densely populated regions.(False – Sparsely populated)
- Coffee requires cold and dry weather.(False – Hot and humid)
Competency-Based Questions
- Why is intensive subsistence agriculture common in monsoon regions?
Answer: High population pressure forces farmers to maximize output from small landholdings using manual labour and multiple cropping. - How does plantation agriculture differ from subsistence farming?
Answer: Plantation farming is large-scale, commercial, and focuses on a single crop e.g., tea, while subsistence farming is small-scale and meets family needs. - Why is wheat called a “temperate crop”?
Answer: It thrives in moderate temperatures 10–25°C and is mainly grown in mid-latitudes like the USA and Punjab. - What are the environmental impacts of shifting agriculture?
Answer: Deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity due to frequent land abandonment. - How does biotechnology improve crop production?
Answer: Genetically modified crops offer higher yields, pest resistance, and better nutrition.
High Order Thinking Skill HOTS Questions
- Compare Indian and U.S. farming practices.
Answer: USA – Large farms, mechanized, high capital; India – Small farms, labour-intensive, low technology. - Why is jute demand declining despite being eco-friendly?
Answer: High production costs and competition from synthetic alternatives like plastic. - How can organic farming solve soil degradation issues?
Answer: Avoids chemicals, improves soil fertility, and sustains long-term productivity. - What would happen if all farmers shifted to commercial agriculture?
Answer: Food shortages in local markets, increased inequality, and environmental strain due to monocropping. - Why is dairy farming more profitable in New Zealand than in India?
Answer: Advanced technology, export-oriented policies, and favourable climate for pasturelands.
Short Answer Questions
- Name two states in India where coffee is grown.
Answer: Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu. - What is the ideal temperature for rice cultivation?
Answer: 24°C or above. - List two advantages of HYV seeds.
Answer: Higher yield, shorter growth cycle. - Why is wheat not grown in tropical regions?
Answer: Requires cool temperatures 10–15°C during sowing. - What is the main crop in plantation agriculture?
Answer: Tea, coffee, rubber.
Long Answer Questions
- Explain the physical and economic factors affecting agriculture.
Answer: Physical – Relief, climate, soil; Economic – Land size, labour, capital, technology. - Describe the major cropping patterns in India with examples.
Answer: Rice West Bengal, Wheat Punjab, Cotton Gujarat, Jute West Bengal. - Discuss the differences between subsistence and commercial agriculture.
Answer: Subsistence – Small-scale, family needs; Commercial – Large-scale, profit-driven. - How has modern technology transformed Indian agriculture?
Answer: HYV seeds, mechanization, irrigation, and biotechnology increased productivity. - Why is agricultural diversification important for India?
Answer: Reduces risk, increases income, and ensures food security.