The correct answer is: a) Wheat.
Maize is a cereal grain that is widely grown and consumed around the world. It is a major staple food in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Maize is also used to make a variety of products, such as cornmeal, corn flour, corn syrup, and ethanol.
The Punjab government promotes the cultivation of maize as an alternative to wheat because maize is a more drought-tolerant crop. Wheat is a major crop in Punjab, but it is susceptible to drought. Maize, on the other hand, is more resistant to drought and can be grown in areas where wheat cannot.
Paddy is a type of rice that is grown in flooded fields. It is a major staple food in many parts of Asia. Paddy is not as drought-tolerant as maize and cannot be grown in areas where there is not enough water.
Sugarcane is a type of grass that is grown for its sugar. It is a major crop in many parts of the world, including India. Sugarcane is not as drought-tolerant as maize and cannot be grown in areas where there is not enough water.
Pulses are a type of legume that is grown for its seeds. They are a major source of protein in many parts of the world. Pulses are not as drought-tolerant as maize and cannot be grown in areas where there is not enough water.