UPSC Prelims 2014·GS1·geography·indian geography

What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'? 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.

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  1. A1 and 3 only
  2. B1, 2 and 4 onlyCorrect
  3. C2, 3 and 4 only
  4. D1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

The 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative' (SSI) is an innovative method of sugarcane cultivation that offers several benefits over conventional methods: 1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation: SSI promotes the use of single-budded setts (small seedlings) instead of the traditional large number of whole canes. This significantly reduces the amount of seed material required, thereby lowering seed costs. This statement is correct. 2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this: SSI advocates for wider spacing between sugarcane plants and rows, which makes it highly conducive for the efficient application of water through drip irrigation. Drip irrigation minimizes water wastage and ensures water reaches the plant roots directly. This statement is correct. 3. There is no application of chemical/inorganic fertilizers at all in this: While SSI encourages reduced use of chemical fertilizers and promotes organic manures and bio-fertilizers for soil health, it does not mandate a complete absence of chemical/inorganic fertilizers. The phrase 'no application at all' makes this statement incorrect. 4. The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation: Due to the wider spacing between rows in SSI, there is ample space available for cultivating companion crops (intercropping) like pulses, vegetables, or oilseeds. This practice helps suppress weeds, improves soil fertility, and provides additional income to farmers. This statement is correct. Based on the analysis, statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct.
geography: What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'?

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