Q1. The crop which is sown with the commencement of Monsoon is
(a) Rabi Crop
(b) Kharif Crop
(c) Cash Crop
(d) None of these
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (b) Kharif Crop
Explanation: Kharif crops are sown at the beginning of the monsoon season (June–July) and harvested in autumn (September–October). Examples include rice, maize, and cotton, which require ample water during their growth phase.
Q2. ‘Jhum Cultivation’ is connected with
(a) Tribal people
(b) Delta cultivation
(c) Dry farming
(d) Hilly people
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (d) Hilly people
Explanation: Jhum cultivation, or slash-and-burn agriculture, is practiced by tribal communities in hilly regions, especially in North-East India. It involves clearing forest patches, growing crops temporarily, and then shifting to new areas.
Q3. Which State is the biggest producer of cashewnuts ?
(a) Tamil Nadu
(b) Assam
(c) Kerala
(d) Punjab
(UPSC Prelims 1979)
Answer: (c) Kerala
Explanation: Kerala is India’s leading producer of cashewnuts, with favorable climatic conditions and a strong processing industry. It contributes significantly to domestic consumption and exports.
Q4. India ranks first in the production of in the world
(a) Tea
(b) Sugar
(c) Rice
(d) Wheat
(UPSC Prelims 1980)
Answer: (a) Tea
Explanation: India has historically been the largest producer of tea, especially in regions like Assam and Darjeeling, contributing significantly to the global tea market.
Q5. Hydroponics means
(a) Cultivation of plants without the use of soil
(b) Detection of sound in water
(c) Animals living in water
(d) A Japanese way of flowering
(UPSC Prelims 1982)
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Hydroponics is a method of growing plants in nutrient-rich water, without using soil. It allows for controlled environments, efficient resource use, and is ideal for urban agriculture.