Which one of the following terms describes the practice of growing two

Which one of the following terms describes the practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same piece of land ?

Crop rotation
Mixed cropping
Intercropping
Mixed farming
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-2 – 2020
Mixed cropping is the practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same piece of land. The objective is often to minimize the risk of crop failure and improve soil fertility. Intercropping is a method of mixed cropping where crops are grown in definite row patterns. Since the question asks for the general term describing the practice of growing multiple crops *simultaneously* without specifying a pattern, mixed cropping is the most appropriate answer.
– Mixed cropping: Growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same land without a definite pattern.
– Intercropping: A type of mixed cropping where crops are grown in specific row arrangements.
– Crop rotation: Growing different crops on the same field in a planned sequence over different seasons or years.
– Mixed farming: A system of farming that combines crop production with the rearing of livestock.
Mixed cropping can provide benefits such as increased yield stability, reduced pest and disease incidence, improved soil health, and better utilization of resources (light, water, nutrients). Examples include growing wheat and gram together, or groundnut and sunflower. Intercropping, with its planned spatial arrangement, allows for easier management operations like harvesting and spraying.