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 :
1, 3 and 4
2, 3, 4 and 5
2, 4 and 5
1, 2, 3 and 5
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2018
1. Avoiding the monoculture practices: This aligns with the principle of species diversification (e.g., crop rotation, intercropping). This is a practice under CA.
2. Adopting minimum tillage: This is one of the three core principles of CA, reducing soil disturbance. This is a practice under CA.
3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops: CA principles are applicable to various cropping systems, including some plantation crops. Avoiding all plantation crops is not a requirement of CA. This statement is incorrect.
4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface: This is the principle of permanent soil cover (mulching), protecting the soil. This is a practice under CA.
5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations: Crop rotation is a primary method for achieving species diversity, a core principle of CA. This is a practice under CA.
Statements 1, 2, 4, and 5 are all relevant practices within Conservation Agriculture. However, examining the options, Option C (2, 4, and 5) includes minimum tillage, soil cover (residues), and crop rotation. While statement 1 (avoiding monoculture) is also correct and related to diversity (like 5), options might prioritize concrete practices over broader principles or goals. Option C lists the three main *practices* that directly embody the core principles: reduced tillage (2), soil cover (4), and diversity via rotation (5). Option 1 (avoiding monoculture) is more of a consequence or goal achieved through practices like rotation. Given the options, C is the best fit comprising key CA practices.