“The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. I

“The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop ?

Cotton
Jute
Sugarcane
Tea
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2020
Cotton fits the given agro-climatic description most accurately.
The description highlights several key requirements: subtropical nature, sensitivity to hard frost, a minimum period of frost-free days, moderate rainfall (50-100 cm), and specific soil conditions (light, well-drained, moisture-retentive). Cotton is a subtropical crop highly sensitive to frost. It requires a long growing season with plenty of sunshine and moderate rainfall. The mentioned rainfall range and soil type (like black cotton soil or alluvial soil) are suitable for cotton cultivation.
Other options like Jute and Tea require higher rainfall (typically above 150 cm). Sugarcane requires 75-150 cm rainfall and often supplemental irrigation; while subtropical, the specific combination of 50-100 cm rainfall and soil description points more towards cotton, especially varieties grown in rainfed conditions or areas with limited irrigation.