Food resources

What are the main reasons for improving food resources in India?

India's population exceeds one billion, necessitating over a quarter billion tonnes of grain yearly, with limited cultivable land.

What does the Green Revolution aim to achieve?

It aims to boost food production using modern technology, irrigation, and improved seeds.

What is crop variety improvement?

It involves enhancing crop yield through methods such as hybridization and introduction of genes for desirable traits.

What are the two main types of crops based on seasons?

Kharif Crops (June to October) and Rabi Crops (November to April).

Name two Kharif crops.

Rice and maize.

What is the significance of nutrient management in agriculture?

Nutrient management enriches the soil to promote plant growth and prevent diseases.

What are macronutrients?

Essential elements required in large quantities for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

What is the main difference between organic and inorganic fertilizers?

Organic fertilizers are made from natural substances, while inorganic fertilizers are chemical compounds.

What is the purpose of intercropping?

To maximize nutrient use in the soil and maintain soil fertility by growing two or more crops together.

Define animal husbandry.

It is the scientific management of domestic animals to obtain food and useful products.

What is cross-breeding in cattle farming?

It is the breeding of foreign cattle with local breeds to enhance qualities like milk production.

What are the two types of fish production?

Capture fishing (natural) and culture fishing (aquaculture).

What are the benefits of integrated fish culture?

It combines multiple farming practices to maximize resource efficiency and farm income.

What is organic farming?

A farming practice that relies on organic matter and avoids artificial chemicals and pesticides.

What are the desired characteristics of bee varieties for honey production?

High honey collection, ability to produce offspring, staying in the hive, and being less stingy.

Why is irrigation important in agriculture?

It supplies water to crop plants, essential for their growth and productivity.

What measures can be suggested for better cropping with low rainfall?

Soil moisture conservation, crop rotation, efficient irrigation systems, drought-resistant crops, and rainwater storage.

What is the lactation period in cattle farming?

The duration between the birth of a calf and the next pregnancy, during which milk is produced.

How does poultry farming differ from cattle farming?

Poultry farming requires less investment, has faster growth rates, and entails lower maintenance.

What are the two main types of honey production methods?

Natural honey production and commercial honey production using beehives.

What are the advantages of using manure in farming?

Manure enriches soil fertility, recycles wastes, and improves soil structure without harmful chemicals.

What is sustainable agriculture?

Agricultural practices that are environmentally friendly and conserve resources for future generations.

What role does crop rotation play in farming?

It helps maintain soil health and reduce pest and disease buildup by alternating different crops in the same area.

Define agroforestry.

A land use management system that integrates trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes.

What is the purpose of soil testing?

To measure nutrient levels and pH in the soil to guide fertilizer and amendment applications.

What are cover crops?

Plants grown primarily to improve soil health and prevent erosion, rather than for harvest.

Why is biodiversity important in agriculture?

It enhances ecosystem resilience, supports pest control, and promotes greater yields.

What is permaculture?

An agricultural system that design integrates land, resources, and people to create sustainable ecosystems.

Describe the impact of climate change on agriculture.

Climate change can lead to altered weather patterns, affecting crop yields, and increasing the risk of droughts and floods.

What are the benefits of vertical farming?

It maximizes space usage, reduces water consumption, and allows for year-round food production.

What is precision agriculture?

A farming management concept that uses technology to monitor and optimize field variability in crops.