What is/are the advantage/advantages of zero tillage in agriculture?

Join Our Telegram Channel

Sowing of wheat is possible without burning the residue of previous crop.
Without the need for nursery of rice saplings, direct planting of paddy seeds in the soil is possible.
Carbon sequestration in the soil is possible.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1 and 2 only

2 and 3 only

3 only

1, 2 and 3

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2020

Download PDF Attempt Online

All three statements describe advantages of zero tillage in agriculture.

Statement 1 is correct. Zero tillage allows direct sowing of seeds into the soil without plowing or tilling. This method can be used after harvesting the previous crop (e.g., rice) without needing to remove or burn the residue, as the seeds are sown directly through the stubble using specialized equipment. This helps in managing crop residue and prevents environmental pollution caused by burning.
Statement 2 is correct. Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) is a technique where rice seeds are sown directly into the field, bypassing the need for raising seedlings in a nursery and then transplanting them. Zero tillage systems are compatible with DSR, allowing farmers to transition away from the traditional transplanting method which requires significant water and nursery preparation.
Statement 3 is correct. Zero tillage reduces soil disturbance. Less disturbance helps in retaining soil organic carbon. Over time, this can lead to an increase in the soil’s organic matter content and facilitate carbon sequestration, potentially helping to mitigate climate change.

Other advantages of zero tillage include reduced fuel consumption (less machinery use), lower labor costs, improved soil structure over the long term, better water infiltration, and reduced soil erosion.

More similar MCQ questions for Exam preparation:-