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Question 59

With reference to the circumstances in Indian agriculture, the concept of "Conservation Agriculture" assumes significance. Which of the following fall under the Conservation Agriculture?
1. Avoiding the monoculture practices
2. Adopting minimum tillage
3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops
4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface
5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

AOptions

A) 1, 3 and 4

B) 2, 3, 4 and 5

C) 2, 4 and 5

D) 1, 2, 3 and 5

BSolution

Conservation Agriculture (CA) is an approach to managing agro-ecosystems for improved and sustained productivity, increased profits and food security while preserving and enhancing the natural resource base. It is typically characterized by three core principles:

1. Minimum mechanical soil disturbance (No-till or Minimum tillage): This involves reducing or eliminating plowing, harrowing, or other forms of soil disturbance. Statement 2, 'Adopting minimum tillage', directly aligns with this principle.

2. Permanent organic soil cover (Residue retention): This means keeping the soil covered with crop residues, mulches, or cover crops. Statement 4, 'Using crop residues to cover soil surface', directly aligns with this principle.

3. Diversification of crop species (Crop rotation/sequencing): This involves growing a variety of crops in sequence or combination over time and space. Statement 5, 'Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations', directly aligns with this principle.

Regarding other options:

1. Avoiding the monoculture practices: While avoiding monoculture is generally a good agricultural practice that fits within the spirit of diversification in CA, it is a broader concept, and 'spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations' (Statement 5) more specifically captures the CA principle.

3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops: This is not a principle of Conservation Agriculture. CA principles can be applied to various types of crops, including perennial plantation crops, to minimize soil disturbance and maintain soil health.

Thus, statements 2, 4, and 5 are the most accurate representations of the core practices of Conservation Agriculture.

CStrategy

For questions on sustainable agricultural practices, identify the core principles or pillars of the concept. Look for practices that aim to reduce environmental impact, improve soil health, and enhance biodiversity.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under Environment & Ecology and Indian Agriculture, specifically sustainable agricultural practices like Conservation Agriculture.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium. Requires specific knowledge of the principles of Conservation Agriculture.