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Rice
The rice is cultivated on the largest areas in India. Historians believe that while the Indica variety of rice was first domesticated in the area covering the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas (i.e. north-eastern India).Rice is a nutritional staple food which provides instant energy as its most important component is carbohydrate (starch). Rice is grown in almost all the states of India. The main rice producing states are Tamilnadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Chhatisgarh, Punjab, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Assam and Maharashtra. It is also grown in Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Gujrat and Kashmir Valley. The rice growing areas in the country can be broadly grouped into five regions as discussed below :
- North-Eastern Region:This region comprises of Assam and North eastern states. In Assam rice is grown in the basin of Brahmnaputra river. This region receives very heavy rainfall and rice is grown under rain fed condition.
- Eastern Region This region comprises of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Eastern Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. In this region rice is grown in the basins of Ganga and Mahanadi rivers and has the highest intensity of rice cultivation in the country. This region receives heavy rainfall and rice is grown mainly under rain fed conditions.
iii. Northern Region: This region comprises of Haryana, Punjab, Western Uttar Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. The region experiences low winter temperature and single crop of rice from May-July to September-December is grown.
- Western Region: This region comprises of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Rice is largely grown under rain fed condition during June-August to October – December.
- Southern Region: This region comprises of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Rice is mainly grown in deltaic tracts of Godavari, Krishna and Cauvery rivers and the non-deltaic rain fed area of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Rice is grown under irrigated condition in deltaic tracts.
Wheat
Wheat is the second most important food crop of India next to rice. It is a Rabi or winter crop. It is sown in the beginning of winter and harvested in the beginning of summer. Normally (in north India) the sowing of wheat begins in the month of October-November and harvesting is done in the month of March-April. This is the staple food of millions of people particularly in the northern and north-western regions of India. Unlike rice, wheat is grown mostly as a rabi or winter crop.
The main regions of wheat production in India are U.P., Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujrat,Maharashtra. U.P., Punjab and Haryana together produce more than 66% of the total wheat of the country.
Cotton requires a daily minimum temperature of 16ºC for germination and 21ºC to 27ºC for proper crop Growth. During the fruiting phase, the day temperature ranging from 27ºC to 32ºC and cool nights are needed. The sowing season of cotton varies considerably from tract to tract and is generally early (April-May) in northern India where it is mostly irrigated. It is delayed on proceeding to down south. It is cultivated largely under rainfed or dryland conditions. An annual rainfall of atleast 50 centimetre distributed through-out the growing season is required for good yield. It is mainly raised during tropical monsoon season, although in southern India it is cultivated during late-monsoon season in winter. The cotton-picking period from mid September to November must have bright sunny days to ensure a good quality.
India has the largest area under cultivation and third largest producer of cotton next only to China and the USA. Within the country two third of total area and production is shared by four states. The main states for cotton production are Panjab, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Haryana.
Jute
Jute is a crop of humid tropical climates. It thrives well in areas with well distributed rainfall of 2,500 mm spread over vegetative growth period of the crop with no Cloudiness. Locations with a mean rainfall of <1,000 mm, incessant rainfall and waterlogging are not suitable for its cultivation.
West Bengal, Bihar and Assam grow jute extensively.
Sugercane
Sugarcane belongs to the grass family. It has a thick jointed stem, Which contains the cane sugar, The juice can be taken as a drink or made into sugar, jaggery or khandsari. . The by-products of sugar are very useful. Bagasse is used to make paper, cattle feed, fuel for mills-and cardboard; molasses for power alcohol. Fertilizers, yeast and rum; and press mud of wax. and shoe polish. It supports the pesticide and fertilizer industries. Sugar factories provide EMPLOYMENT to over a million ‘workers. India is the second largest sugarcane producer in the world.
Climatic and Soil conditions which favour the cultivation of sugarcane are:-
- Temperature: 20°C-30°C. Temperature above 50°C arrests its growth and temperature below 20°C slows down its growth.
- Rain: 75-120cms. It cannot withstand frost. For ripening it needs a cool dry season.
- Soil: A medium heavy loam is ideal-In northern India it is cultivated on clay loams and alluvial soil while in south India it is cultivated on brown or reddish loams, black cotton soil and laterites.
Leading sugarcane producing states are Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab.Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh.
Rubber
Rubber tree is sturdy, quick growing and tall. It grows on many Types of Soil provided the soil is deep and well drained. A warm humid equitable Climate (2 1′ to 35′) and a fairly distributed rainfall of not less than 200 c m are necessary for the cultivation of rubber crop.
Kerala (accounts for 90% of the total area under rubber), Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andamanand Nicobar Islands. Parts of West Bengal. Orrisa., Maharashtra, Karnataka and’N.E parts of India are potential regions for rubber-cultivation.
Tea
Commercial Tea plantation in India was started by the Britishers in 1923 when wild tea Plants were discovered by them in the hilly and forest areas of Assam.
Climatic conditions required for the growing of tea are
- Temp: 13-35°C. Average of 25°C is suitable.
- Humidity: – High humidity, heavy dew and morning fog promote growth if healthy leaves.
- Rainfall: Annual rainfalI (range) 150-350cm (well distributed)
- Soil- Well drained mountain soil, Light, loamy, porous rich in nitrogen and iron/ laterite like the soil found in Assam
Assam is the leading producer that accounts for more than 50% of tea production of India. Tea producing areas of Assam are the hill slopes bordering the Brahmaputra and Surma valleys. West Bengal is the second largest producer of tea where tea is mostly grown in the districts of Darjeeling, Siliguri, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Bihar districts. Tamil Nadu is the third largest producer where tea growing areas are mostly restricted to Nilgiri hills.
Coffee
Commercial cultivation of coffee was started by British entrepreneurs in South India during 1820’s.
Most of India’s coffee is grown in three Southern states: Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, the first two account for nearly 90 percent of total production. Much of the coffee in Kerala and Karnataka is grown in the Western Ghats, a mountain chain that runs parallel to the coast line and about 100 miles inland from the Arabian Sea. India exports nearly 70 percent of the coffee it produces. These exports consist mainly of high grade beans from both the Arabica and the Robusta growing regions.
Geographical Requirement for Coffee cultivation are as follows:-
- Temperatute:- should be ranging between 15 to 28°C throughout the year. Frost free Environment. Direct raysof the sun are harmfui as it.is grown in the shade of trees. In its early stages of growth it needs to be protected from hot.dry winds.
- Rainfall:- 125cm- 250 cms throughout the year.
- Soil:-. Well drained, weathered volcanic soil, red and laterite soil. The presence of humus is essential. .
- Topography:- grows on hill slopes at elevation ranging from 500mts to 1800mts.
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Rice
Rice is a cereal grain that is widely grown and consumed in Asia and other parts of the world. It is a staple food for over half of the world’s Population. Rice is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and requires a lot of water. The major rice-producing countries are China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
Rice is a member of the grass family, and its scientific name is Oryza sativa. It is a semi-aquatic plant, and its roots grow in water. Rice plants have long, slender leaves and small, white or brown flowers. The rice grain is a seed that is enclosed in a husk.
Rice is a versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of climates. It is a major food source in Asia, where it is used to make rice dishes such as sushi, fried rice, and risotto. Rice is also a popular food in other parts of the world, such as Africa and Latin America.
Wheat
Wheat is a cereal grain that is used to make bread, pasta, and other foods. It is the most widely grown cereal grain in the world. Wheat is grown in temperate climates, and requires a moderate amount of water. The major wheat-producing countries are China, India, the United States, Russia, and Canada.
Wheat is a member of the grass family, and its scientific name is Triticum aestivum. It is an annual plant that grows to a height of about 1 meter. Wheat has long, narrow leaves and small, white flowers. The wheat grain is a seed that is enclosed in a husk.
Wheat is a major food source in many parts of the world. It is used to make bread, pasta, noodles, and other baked goods. Wheat is also used to make beer and other alcoholic beverages.
Cotton
Cotton is a fiber that is used to make clothing, textiles, and other products. It is the most widely grown natural fiber in the world. Cotton is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and requires a lot of water. The major cotton-producing countries are China, India, the United States, Pakistan, and Brazil.
Cotton is a member of the mallow family, and its scientific name is Gossypium hirsutum. It is an annual plant that grows to a height of about 2 meters. Cotton has long, narrow leaves and small, white flowers. The cotton boll is a fruit that contains the cotton fibers.
Cotton is a major cash crop in many parts of the world. It is used to make clothing, towels, sheets, and other textiles. Cotton is also used to make paper, explosives, and other products.
Jute
Jute is a fiber that is used to make bags, ropes, and other products. It is the second most widely grown natural fiber in the world. Jute is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and requires a lot of water. The major jute-producing countries are Bangladesh, India, and China.
Jute is a member of the mallow family, and its scientific name is Corchorus capsularis. It is an annual plant that grows to a height of about 3 meters. Jute has long, narrow leaves and small, yellow flowers. The jute fiber is obtained from the stem of the plant.
Jute is a major cash crop in Bangladesh. It is used to make bags, ropes, sacks, and other products. Jute is also used to make paper, insulation, and other products.
Sugarcane
Sugarcane is a grass that is used to make sugar. It is the world’s largest source of sucrose. Sugarcane is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and requires a lot of water. The major sugarcane-producing countries are Brazil, India, China, Thailand, and Mexico.
Sugarcane is a member of the grass family, and its scientific name is Saccharum officinarum. It is a perennial plant that grows to a height of about 3 meters. Sugarcane has long, narrow leaves and small, white flowers. The sugarcane stalk is a long, thick stem that contains the sugar-rich juice.
Sugarcane is a major cash crop in many parts of the world. It is used to make sugar, molasses, and ethanol. Sugarcane is also used to make paper, building materials, and other products.
Rubber
Rubber is a material that is used to make tires, shoes, and other products. It is produced from the sap of rubber trees. Rubber trees are grown in tropical and subtropical climates. The major rubber-producing countries are Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and China.
Rubber is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, and its scientific name is Hevea brasiliensis. It
Rice is a cereal grain that is the staple food for over half of the world’s population. It is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and is particularly well-suited to flooded conditions. The main rice-producing countries are China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
Wheat is a cereal grain that is used to make bread, pasta, and other baked goods. It is grown in temperate climates, and is the most widely-grown cereal grain in the world. The main wheat-producing countries are China, India, the United States, Russia, and Canada.
Cotton is a soft, fluffy fiber that is used to make textiles. It is grown in warm, humid climates, and is the most important fiber crop in the world. The main cotton-producing countries are China, India, the United States, Pakistan, and Brazil.
Jute is a long, strong fiber that is used to make burlap, twine, and other products. It is grown in tropical climates, and is the most important fiber crop in Bangladesh.
Sugarcane is a tall grass that is used to make sugar. It is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and is the main source of sugar in the world. The main sugarcane-producing countries are Brazil, India, China, Thailand, and Mexico.
Rubber is a natural latex that is extracted from the sap of rubber trees. It is used to make tires, shoes, and other products. Rubber trees are grown in tropical climates, and the main rubber-producing countries are Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and China.
Tea is an herbal beverage that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is grown in tropical and subtropical climates, and the main tea-producing countries are China, India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Vietnam.
Coffee is a brewed drink that is made from the roasted beans of the Coffea plant. It is grown in tropical climates, and the main coffee-producing countries are Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia, and Ethiopia.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the geographical conditions and distribution of major crops:
- What are the main factors that affect the distribution of crops?
The main factors that affect the distribution of crops are climate, soil, and water. Climate is the most important factor, as crops need certain temperatures and rainfall levels to grow. Soil is also important, as crops need certain types of soil to grow well. Water is also important, as crops need water to grow.
- What are the main types of climates in which crops are grown?
The main types of climates in which crops are grown are tropical, subtropical, temperate, and arid. Tropical climates are hot and humid, and are suitable for growing crops such as rice, sugarcane, and coffee. Subtropical climates are warm and humid, and are suitable for growing crops such as cotton, wheat, and soybeans. Temperate climates are mild and moist, and are suitable for growing crops such as corn, barley, and potatoes. Arid climates are dry and hot, and are suitable for growing crops such as dates, olives, and grapes.
- What are the main types of soils in which crops are grown?
The main types of soils in which crops are grown are sandy, loamy, and clayey. Sandy soils are loose and well-drained, and are suitable for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans. Loamy soils are a mix of sand, silt, and clay, and are suitable for growing a variety of crops. Clayey soils are heavy and poorly-drained, and are suitable for growing crops such as rice, sugarcane, and potatoes.
- What are the main types of water sources that are used for Irrigation?
The main types of water sources that are used for irrigation are surface water, groundwater, and rainwater. Surface water is water that flows in rivers, lakes, and streams. Groundwater is water that is stored underground in aquifers. Rainwater is water that falls from the sky as rain.
- What are the main challenges to crop production?
The main challenges to crop production are pests, diseases, Weeds, and drought. Pests are animals that damage crops. Diseases are caused by Microorganisms that damage crops. Weeds are plants that compete with crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Drought is a period of time with little or no rainfall.
- What are the main ways to improve crop production?
The main ways to improve crop production are to use improved seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Improved seeds are seeds that have been bred to be more resistant to pests, diseases, and drought. Fertilizers are chemicals that are added to soil to improve crop growth. Pesticides are chemicals that are used to kill pests.
Question 1
Which of the following crops is not a major food crop?
(A) Rice
(B) Wheat
(C) Cotton
(D) Jute
Answer
(C) Cotton is a major fiber crop, not a food crop.
Question 2
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of rice?
(A) China
(B) India
(C) Indonesia
(D) Thailand
Answer
(A) China is the world’s largest producer of rice, followed by India and Indonesia.
Question 3
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of wheat?
(A) China
(B) India
(C) Russia
(D) United States
Answer
(D) The United States is the world’s largest producer of wheat, followed by China and India.
Question 4
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of cotton?
(A) China
(B) India
(C) United States
(D) Brazil
Answer
(A) China is the world’s largest producer of cotton, followed by India and the United States.
Question 5
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of jute?
(A) Bangladesh
(B) India
(C) China
(D) Pakistan
Answer
(A) Bangladesh is the world’s largest producer of jute, followed by India and China.
Question 6
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of sugarcane?
(A) Brazil
(B) India
(C) China
(D) Mexico
Answer
(A) Brazil is the world’s largest producer of sugarcane, followed by India and China.
Question 7
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of rubber?
(A) Indonesia
(B) Malaysia
(C) Thailand
(D) Vietnam
Answer
(A) Indonesia is the world’s largest producer of rubber, followed by Malaysia and Thailand.
Question 8
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of tea?
(A) China
(B) India
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) Kenya
Answer
(A) China is the world’s largest producer of tea, followed by India and Sri Lanka.
Question 9
Which of the following countries is the world’s largest producer of coffee?
(A) Brazil
(B) Vietnam
(C) Colombia
(D) Indonesia
Answer
(A) Brazil is the world’s largest producer of coffee, followed by Vietnam and Colombia.