Agriculture

Geography and Environment (CSC) Combined State Civil Services

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Indian Economy - Understanding the basics of Indian economic system

Lately, north Indian states of Punjab, Haryana are emerging as major Rice producing regions of India. What could be the possible reasons behind this?

1. The weather/climate of these states is ideally suited for cultivation of rice.

2. Availability of inputs like High Yielding varieties, irrigation, fertilizers etc.

3. Hot and dry weather prevents pest infestation and is hence good for rice cultivation.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below

1 and 2 only

2 and 3 only

1 and 3 only

All of the above

Statement 1 is incorrect as the climate of north Indian states is not suited for rice cultivation. Rice needs high temperatures of above 250 Celsius and a rainfall of above 100cm. The north Indian region has high temperature during summer season, but rainfall is only 50-60 cm i.e way below the desired level.
The north Indian region being the beneficiary of Green Revolution practices input oriented agriculture leading to high yields for all crops including rice.
In South India, the pest infestation is higher due to warm and moist climatic conditions. But the north being dry and hot during summers prevents pest infestation.
The geographical conditions for Rice Cultivation are:
Temperature: 16°C – 27°C and rainfall 100 cm to 200 cm is ideal for rice growing. But rainfall during harvest times is harmful. Annual coverage temperature around 24°C is ideal.
Soil: rice is grown well on the alluvial soil or on the fertile river basins. It is also grown in mixed soil or loamy and clayey soil.
Land: Plain lands or gentle slopes are suitable for the production of rice. Because stagnancy of water is a must for the cultivation of rice