The correct answer is: d) All of the above
Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India with a population of over 3 million people. The state is predominantly rural, with agriculture accounting for over 50% of the state’s GDP. The main crops grown in Meghalaya are rice, maize, and vegetables.
In recent years, the government of Meghalaya has made efforts to improve agricultural productivity in the state. These efforts have included the introduction of high-yielding varieties of crops, the promotion of organic farming, and the improvement of irrigation facilities.
The introduction of high-yielding varieties of crops has led to an increase in crop yields. Organic farming has helped to improve soil fertility and reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers. The improvement of irrigation facilities has helped to ensure that crops have access to water during the dry season.
These efforts have helped to improve agricultural productivity in Meghalaya. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed, such as the lack of access to credit and the low level of mechanization in the agricultural sector.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Introduction of high-yielding varieties: High-yielding varieties (HYVs) are crops that have been bred to produce more yield than traditional varieties. HYVs are often used in intensive agriculture, where large amounts of fertilizer and pesticides are used. HYVs have been controversial, as they have been linked to environmental problems such as water pollution and soil erosion. However, they have also been credited with helping to increase food production and reduce poverty in developing countries.
- Promoting organic farming: Organic farming is a type of agriculture that uses natural methods to grow crops and raise livestock. Organic farming practices include crop rotation, composting, and the use of biological pest control. Organic farming is often seen as a more sustainable form of agriculture than conventional agriculture.
- Improving irrigation facilities: Irrigation is the artificial application of water to crops. Irrigation can be used to supplement rainfall or to provide water to crops that are grown in areas with low rainfall. Irrigation can help to increase crop yields and improve crop quality.