Which one of the following is not an important reason behind the preva

Which one of the following is not an important reason behind the prevailing variation in cropping patterns in the country ?

Variation in rainfall
Variation in soil type
Variation in irrigation facilities
Variation in altitude
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2010
The correct option is D) Variation in altitude.
While variation in altitude certainly affects local cropping patterns (e.g., tea, coffee, specific fruits/vegetables grown in hills), it is generally considered less significant as a primary driver of the overall *country-wide* variation in cropping patterns compared to the other three factors. Rainfall, soil type, and irrigation facilities fundamentally determine what crops can be grown, where, and at what intensity across the vast agricultural areas of India (plains, plateaus), which constitute the majority of cultivated land.
Variation in rainfall dictates the choice between rain-fed and irrigated crops, and which crops are suitable for different precipitation levels. Variation in soil type determines the nutrient availability and water-holding capacity, suitability for different crops. Variation in irrigation facilities enables cultivation in areas with low or erratic rainfall, allowing for different cropping intensities and crop types than would otherwise be possible. Altitude plays a role regionally but is not the *most important* or as pervasive a reason for variation across the entire country compared to the others listed.