Some Initiatives and Solutions

National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA):

• Objective: Enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and climate resilience by promoting integrated farming systems and soil and moisture conservation.
• Schemes: Includes initiatives such as the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to encourage organic farming and sustainable practices.

Farmer’s Portal of India:

• Features: Provides comprehensive information on various aspects of agriculture including insurance, crop management, extension activities, seeds, pesticides, and farm machinery.
• Interactive Map: Offers block-level details on soil fertility, storage, insurance, and training to support farmers with localized information and resources.

Previous year questions

Prelims

Q. With reference to the cultivation of Kharif crops in India in the last five years, consider the following statements: (2019)

1. Area under rice cultivation is the highest.
2. Area under cultivation of jowar is more than that of oilseeds.
3. Area of cotton cultivation is more than that of sugarcane.
4. Area under sugarcane cultivation has steadily decreased.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: a)

Rice is the major Kharif crop in India, and its cultivation covers the largest area during the Kharif season. The area under oilseeds cultivation, particularly soybean, groundnut, etc., has been larger than that of jowar in recent years.Cotton is a significant Kharif crop in India and occupies a larger area compared to sugarcane. The area under sugarcane cultivation has been fluctuating but not steadily decreasing.

Q. Why does the Government of India promote the use of ‘Neem-coated Urea’ in agriculture? (2016)

(a) Release of Neem oil in the soil increases nitrogen fixation by the soil microorganisms

(b) Neem coating slows down the rate of dissolution of urea in the soil

(c) Nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas, is not at all released into atmosphere by crop fields

(d) It is a combination of a 1,weedicide and a fertilizer for particular crops

Answer: b)

Neem-coated urea is promoted by the Government of India to reduce the rapid dissolution of urea in the soil. This slow release ensures better nitrogen utilization by plants, reduces nitrogen loss due to volatilization, and minimizes the leaching of urea into groundwater. Additionally, it helps in curbing the misuse of urea for non-agricultural purposes. Therefore, the correct reason for promoting Neem-coated urea is that the Neem coating slows down the dissolution rate, leading to more efficient and sustainable use of nitrogen fertilizers.

Q. In the context of food and nutritional security of India, enhancing the ‘Seed Replacement Rates’ of various crops helps in achieving the food production targets of the future. But what is/are the constraints/constraints in its wider/greater implementation? (2014)

1. There is no National Seeds Policy in place.
2. There is no participation of private sector seed companies in the supply of quality seeds of vegetables and planting materials of horticultural crops.
3. There is a demand supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 3 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) None

Answer: b)

India has a National Seeds Policy, which was introduced in 2002. It aims to ensure the timely availability of quality seeds to farmers.The private sector plays a significant role in the supply of quality seeds, especially in vegetables and horticultural crops.For crops like cereals, pulses, and oilseeds, which are low-value but high-volume, there is often a demand-supply gap in quality seeds due to less profitability in producing such seeds.

Q. Consider the following crops: (2013)

1. Cotton
2. Groundnut
3. Rice
4. Wheat

Which of these are Kharif crops?

(a) 1 and 4

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) 2, 3 and 4

Answer: c)

• Cotton, groundnut, and rice are Kharif crops, which are typically sown at the beginning of the monsoon (June-July) and harvested in autumn (September-October).
• Wheat is a Rabi crop, which is sown in winter and harvested in spring.

Q. Among the following, which one is the least water-efficient crop? (2021)

(a) Sugarcane

(b) Sunflower

(c) Pearl millet

(d) Red gram

Answer: a)

Sugarcane is known to be a highly water-intensive crop, requiring large amounts of water for its growth. In contrast, crops like sunflower, pearl millet, and red gram are relatively more water-efficient, with pearl millet being particularly drought-resistant and well-suited for dryland farming. Therefore, sugarcane is the least water-efficient crop among the options provided.

Q. What is/are the advantages/advantages of zero tillage in agriculture? (2020)

1. Sowing wheat without burning the residue of the previous crop.
2. Without the need for a nursery of rice seedlings, direct planting of paddy seeds in the wet soil is possible.
3. Carbon sequestration in the soil is possible

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d)

Explanation:

Zero tillage allows farmers to sow crops like wheat without the need to burn the residue from previous crops, which reduces air pollution and retains soil nutrients.Zero tillage techniques can be adapted for direct seeding of paddy without needing to first raise seedlings in nurseries, saving both time and water.Zero tillage promotes carbon sequestration by maintaining organic matter in the soil and reducing soil disturbance, which helps trap carbon in the soil.

Q. With reference to pulse production in India, consider the following statements: (2020)

1. Black gram can be cultivated as both kharif and rabi crop.
2. Green-gram alone accounts for nearly half of pulse production.
3. In the last three decades, while the production of kharif pulses has increased, the production of rabi pulses has decreased.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: a)

Explanation:

Black gram (urad) can be grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons.Green gram (moong) is an important pulse, but it does not account for nearly half of pulse production. Pulses like chickpeas (chana) and pigeon peas (tur) have larger shares in total pulse production.Both Kharif and Rabi pulse production have increased over the last few decades due to efforts to improve pulse cultivation through better seeds and agricultural practices.

Q. “The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop? (2020)

(a) Cotton

(b) Jute

(c) Sugarcane

(d) Tea

Answer: a)

• Cotton is a subtropical crop that requires warm conditions for its growth.
• It needs at least 210 frost-free days, as frost can severely damage the crop.
• The optimal rainfall for cotton ranges between 50 to 100 centimeters.
• Cotton thrives in light, well-drained soils that can retain moisture, such as black soil (also known as regur soil).

Q. Which of the following practices can help in water conservation in agriculture? (2017)

1. Reduced or zero tillage of the land
2. Applying gypsum before irrigating the field
3. Allowing crop residue to remain in the field

Select the correct answer using the code given

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d)

• Reduced or zero tillage of the land – This can help in water conservation as it reduces soil disturbance, which improves moisture retention in the soil and reduces evaporation.
• Applying gypsum before irrigating the field – This practice helps in improving soil structure, particularly in soils with high salinity or sodicity, leading to better water infiltration and conservation.
• Allowing crop residue to remain in the field – Leaving crop residue on the field acts as mulch, reducing soil erosion and water evaporation, thus aiding in moisture retention and conservation.

Q. What is the significance of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as ‘Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative’? (2014)

1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this.
3. There is no application of chemical inorganic fertilizers at all in this.
4. The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only

(c) 2, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: b)

The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) uses fewer seeds, which reduces seed costs significantly compared to conventional methods.SSI encourages the use of drip irrigation, which conserves water and improves water use efficiency.While SSI promotes the use of organic fertilizers, it does not completely rule out the use of chemical fertilizers. The focus is on reducing chemical input, but it is not entirely absent.

Q. In the context of food and nutritional security of India, enhancing the ‘Seed Replacement Rates’ of various crops helps in achieving the food production targets of the future. But what is/are the constraints/constraints in its wider/greater implementation? (2014)

1. There is no National Seeds Policy in place.
2. There is no participation of private sector seed companies in the supply of quality seeds of vegetables and planting materials of horticultural crops.
3. There is a demand supply gap regarding quality seeds in case of low value and high volume crops.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 3 only

(c) 2 and 3

(d) None

Answer: b)

India has a National Seeds Policy, introduced in 2002, aimed at ensuring the availability of quality seeds to farmers.The private sector is significantly involved in the production and supply of quality seeds, particularly for high-value crops like vegetables and horticulture.For crops like cereals, pulses, and oilseeds, which are typically low-value and high-volume, there is often a gap between the demand for and the supply of quality seeds due to lower profitability in producing such seeds.

Q. Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’? (2012)

(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops

(b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field

(c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together

(d) None of the above

Answer: c)

The chief characteristic of mixed farming is the simultaneous rearing of livestock and cultivation of crops on the same farm. This system allows for diversification of farm activities, better utilization of resources, and risk reduction as the farm produces both animal products and crops.

Q. Consider the following crops of India: (2012)

1. Groundnut
2. Sesamum
3. Pearl millet

Which of the above is/are predominantly rainfed crop/crops?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d)

• Groundnut: While groundnut can be grown with irrigation, it is primarily cultivated as a rainfed crop in regions with moderate rainfall.
• Sesamum: This oilseed crop is largely rainfed and is cultivated in areas with limited water availability.
• Pearl millet: Known for its drought tolerance, pearl millet is a major rainfed crop in arid and semi-arid regions.

Q. Consider the following crops of India: (2012)

1. Cowpea
2. Green gram
3. Pigeon pea

Which of the above is/are used as pulse, fodder and green manure?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: d)

• Cowpea: It is used as a pulse, fodder, and green manure.
• Green gram (moong): It is primarily used as a pulse, but can also serve as green manure and fodder.
• Pigeon pea: It is used as a pulse, and its plant residues can be used for fodder and green manure.

Q. The lower Gangetic plain is characterized by a humid climate with high temperature throughout the year. Which one among the folloWing pairs of crops is most suitable for this region? (2011)

(a) Paddy and Cotton

(b) Wheat and Jute

(c) Paddy and Jute

(d) Wheat and cotton

Answer: c)

The Lower Gangetic plain is characterized by a humid climate with high temperatures throughout the year, making it highly suitable for the cultivation of:

• Paddy (rice), which requires a warm, humid climate and plenty of water.
• Jute, which also thrives in a hot and humid environment with abundant rainfall.

Q. A state in India has the following characteristics: (2011)

1. Its northern part is arid and semi-arid.
2. Its central part produces cotton.
3. Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.

Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?

(a) Andhra Pradesh (b) Gujarat

(c) Karnataka (d) Tamil Nadu

Answer: b)

• The northern part of Gujarat, particularly regions like Kutch and parts of Saurashtra, is characterized by arid and semi-arid conditions.
• Gujarat is a major cotton-producing state, particularly in central regions like Saurashtra.
• Gujarat is known for the cultivation of cash crops like cotton, groundnut, and tobacco, with a strong focus on cash crop production.

Q. With reference to micro-irrigation, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2011)

1. Fertilizer/nutrient loss can be reduced.
2. It is the only means of irrigation in dry land farming.
3. In some areas of farming, receding ground water tables can be checked.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: c)

Micro-irrigation, such as drip irrigation, applies water and fertilizers directly to the roots of plants, reducing wastage and nutrient runoff.Micro-irrigation is not the only method used in dry land farming. Other methods like rain-fed farming and traditional irrigation systems can also be used, although micro-irrigation is highly effective in water-scarce regions.Micro-irrigation helps conserve water by delivering it efficiently, which can contribute to reducing groundwater extraction and stabilizing groundwater levels.

Q. How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming? (2021)

1. Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant.
2. Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
3. Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions.
4. Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 and 3

(b) 1, 2 and 4

(c) 4 only

(d) 2 and 3

Answer: b)

Permaculture promotes biodiversity and polyculture, whereas conventional farming often relies on monoculture to maximize yield.The use of chemical fertilizers and improper irrigation in conventional farming can lead to soil salinity, while permaculture, focusing on natural soil health, avoids this issue.Permaculture is designed to work with natural ecosystems, and it can be adapted to semi-arid regions using techniques like water harvesting, mulching, and drought-resistant plants.Mulching is a key practice in permaculture to retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth, but it is not commonly emphasized in conventional chemical farming.

Q. With references to organic farming in India, consider the following statements: (2018)

1. ‘The National Programme for Organic Production’ (NPOP) is operated under the guidelines and directions of the Union Ministry of Rural Development.
2. ‘The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) functions as the Secretariat for the implementation of NPOP.
3. Sikkim has become India’s first fully organic State.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: b)

NPOP is operated under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, not the Ministry of Rural Development.APEDA is responsible for the implementation of NPOP, which includes certification and promotion of organic products.Sikkim was declared India’s first fully organic state in 2016, having converted its entire agricultural land to organic farming.

Previous year mains

1. From being a net food importer in the 1960’s, India has emerged as a net food exporter to the world. Provide Reasons. (2023)

Ans: SOLUTION

Introduction	India has transformed from a nation reliant on food imports to a leading agricultural exporter, thanks to significant advancements in irrigation, infrastructure, crop diversification, and favorable government policies. In the 1960s, about 75% of the population depended on agriculture with low productivity, and wheat imports reached 10-11 million tons. Today, India ranks among the top ten agricultural exporters globally, with production increasing from 51 million tons in 1951-52 to 342 million tons in 2021-22.
Body	Several factors contributed to this transition from a net importer to a net exporter: Green Revolution: Initiated in the 1960s, this movement introduced high-yield crop varieties, modern farming techniques, and increased fertilizer and irrigation use, significantly boosting productivity. Financial Support: Government initiatives like low-cost credit from NABARD and insurance schemes have provided farmers with the financial stability needed to invest in agriculture. Operation Flood: Launched in 1960, this initiative revitalized the dairy industry, creating jobs and making India the largest producer of milk, accounting for nearly 24% of global production. Economic Reforms: Reforms in the 1990s opened India’s economy, enabling private sector participation and exploring export markets through organizations like APEDA. Technological Progress: Adoption of genetically modified cotton varieties has made India a major player in the global cotton market.
Conclusion	While India has achieved grain self-sufficiency, challenges like sustainability, climate change, and inadequate infrastructure remain. The recent FAO report indicates that 74% of the population cannot afford a healthy diet, highlighting the urgent need for a second Green Revolution focused on ensuring access to nutritious food at affordable prices.

1. Defining blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture development in India. (15)(2018)

Ans: SOLUTION

Introduction	The “Blue Revolution” emphasizes the sustainable and innovative development of global fisheries and aquaculture to meet the rising demand for seafood. This initiative aims to protect marine ecosystems while enhancing the livelihoods of fishing communities. The aquaculture sector holds tremendous potential to bolster food security and improve rural livelihoods in India.
Body	Problems of Pisciculture Development in India: Several challenges hinder the growth of pisciculture in India: Lack of Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure, such as fish hatcheries, seed farms, processing facilities, and transportation networks, poses significant challenges for fish farmers, making it difficult to produce and market their products effectively. Limited Access to Credit: Many fish farmers struggle to secure credit, limiting their capacity to invest in infrastructure and expand operations, thereby stunting sector growth. Poor Quality Fish Seed: The quality of fish seed often falls short, with high mortality and low growth rates attributed to inadequate breeding and selection techniques. Water Scarcity: Water scarcity presents a major obstacle, as fish farming requires substantial water resources. This issue is exacerbated by pollution in many of India’s rivers, complicating efforts to maintain clean water for aquaculture. Lack of Skilled Manpower: A shortage of skilled professionals, such as aquaculture technicians and fish health experts, hampers fish farmers’ ability to produce quality products and compete globally. Low Profitability: Despite the potential of pisciculture, many farmers face low profitability due to high production costs, low market prices, and limited access to markets. Strategies for Pisciculture Development in India: To foster sustainable growth in aquaculture, it is crucial to strengthen data collection regarding freshwater and brackish water resources for effective policy analysis. Leveraging information technology, including remote sensing and GIS, can help identify suitable aquaculture areas, minimizing ecological impacts and social conflicts. Improvements in breeding technology, disease control, and low-impact production systems should complement traditional practices, while both public and private sectors need to enhance financial support and farmer education on sustainable practices. Strengthening credit flow from financial institutions, along with legal measures to regulate aquaculture in fragile ecosystems, is essential for maintaining ecological and economic sustainability.
Conclusion	India, with its rich fish diversity, is the second-largest fish producer in the world. Given the current challenges of food insecurity, the prospects for pisciculture are immense. By adopting a sustainable and ecologically balanced approach to aquaculture, India can address both environmental and socioeconomic needs, ultimately providing nourishment for its growing population.

1. Mention the advantages of the cultivation of pulses because of which the year 2016 was declared as the International Year of Pulses by the United Nations. (150 words) (2017)

Ans:

Introduction	Pulses are vital food crops, ranking just behind cereals, and have been integral to the human diet since 8000 BC. Despite their recognized health benefits, pulse consumption remains low in many regions. To raise awareness of their nutritional value and promote sustainable food production, the United Nations declared 2016 the International Year of Pulses.
Body	Advantages of Pulse Cultivation: Nutritional Benefits: Pulses like lentils and chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, improving overall health. For instance, the Indian Council of Medical Research states that pulses account for 20-25% of protein intake in vegetarian Indian households. Soil Health Improvement: Pulses can fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic bacteria, enhancing soil fertility. Chickpeas, for example, can fix 100-150 kg of nitrogen per hectare, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Crop Rotation: Pulses are effective in crop rotation, helping to break pest cycles and enhance land productivity. In Bundelkhand, rotating chickpeas with wheat has increased wheat yields by 8-10%. Water Efficiency: Pulses require less water than cereals, making them suitable for water-stressed regions. The water footprint of lentils is approximately 18 times lower than that of beef. Climate Resilience: Pulses tolerate drought and thrive in varied climates. Drought-tolerant varieties like pigeonpea are successful in India’s arid regions. Income Diversification: Pulses provide farmers with additional income and reduce reliance on single crops. According to FAO, they offer income diversification for smallholder farmers in India.
Conclusion	Pulses play a crucial role in addressing hunger, food security, and malnutrition, while also contributing to environmental sustainability. However, India still needs to import about 2 million tonnes annually to meet its domestic requirements.

1. Why did the Green Revolution in India virtually by-pass the eastern region despite fertile soil and good availability of water?(2014)

Ans: Solution

Introduction	The Green Revolution in India, initiated in the late 1960s, was a transformative period in Indian agriculture marked by increased agricultural production due to the introduction of high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilizers, and irrigation techniques. However, its benefits were largely concentrated in the northwestern states such as Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, while the eastern region, despite having fertile soil and ample water supply, saw limited impact.
Body	1. Lack of Infrastructure: Irrigation Systems: Despite abundant water resources, the eastern region lacked the necessary infrastructure to effectively manage and utilize these resources. The area was prone to flooding and waterlogging, which discouraged investment in permanent irrigation systems, unlike the well-developed canal systems in Punjab and Haryana. Roads and Storage Facilities: Poor transportation and inadequate storage facilities hindered the efficient distribution and use of fertilizers and HYV seeds. This logistical challenge was a significant barrier to adopting new agricultural technologies. 2. Socio-economic Factors: Landholding Patterns: The eastern region had a higher prevalence of small and fragmented landholdings compared to the more consolidated holdings in the northwestern regions. This made it economically unviable for many farmers to invest in the expensive inputs required by the Green Revolution technologies. Poverty and Literacy Levels: Higher levels of poverty and lower literacy rates in the eastern states also affected the adoption of new agricultural techniques, which often required some basic education to implement effectively. 3. Policy Focus and Government Support: Initial Target Areas: The initial focus of the Green Revolution was on regions that had already shown potential for high agricultural output. The government’s policies and subsidies favored these “breadbasket” areas, where the returns on investment were perceived to be higher. Lack of Extension Services: There was a disparity in the availability of agricultural extension services, which were more concentrated in regions initially targeted by the Green Revolution. This left many farmers in the eastern region without the necessary support and knowledge to adopt new practices. 4. Ecological and Climatic Conditions: Suitability of Crops: The HYV seeds, particularly those of wheat and rice introduced during the Green Revolution, were more suited to the agro-climatic conditions of the northwestern states. The eastern region, with its different climate and soil types, did not find these varieties as effective. Water Management Issues: The prevalence of flooding and the unique water management needs of the eastern region required different approaches to irrigation and crop management, which the Green Revolution technologies did not adequately address.
Conclusion	The Green Revolution’s limited impact on the eastern region of India can be attributed to a combination of infrastructural deficiencies, socio-economic barriers, skewed policy focus, and ecological factors. Addressing these challenges requires a region-specific approach to agricultural development, focusing on improving infrastructure, adapting technologies to local conditions, and enhancing farmer education and support services. Only by recognizing and addressing the unique needs and challenges of each region can India ensure inclusive agricultural growth and food security for all its parts.