CBSE Class 10 Geography Important Questions - Chapter 4 Agriculture

1. Which of the following is a rabi crop?

(a) Rice

(b) Millets

(c) Gram

(d) Cotton

Ans: (c) Gram

2. Mention some of the states of India where Intensive Subsistence Farming is practised.

Ans: Intensive subsistence farming is found in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. In these areas, farmers use small pieces of land and put in a lot of hard work and resources to grow crops. This farming method is common where there are many people, so it's important to produce a lot of food from limited land. It often involves growing crops like rice, wheat, and pulses. This approach helps meet the high food demands in densely populated regions.

3. Give some examples of crops that may be commercial in one region and may provide subsistence in another region.

Ans: 

• Rice: In places like Japan and Thailand, rice is grown to sell and export. In other areas, like parts of Africa and Asia, rice is mostly grown to feed local families.

• Wheat: In the United States and Canada, wheat is grown to sell around the world. In countries like India and Pakistan, it’s often grown to provide food for local people.

• Sugarcane: In Brazil and Cuba, sugarcane is a major crop for making sugar and ethanol. In other regions, like some parts of India, it’s mainly grown for local use.

• Cotton: In the United States and China, cotton is grown to sell for making clothes. In parts of West Africa, cotton is grown more to support local needs and livelihoods.

4. Name one important beverage crop and specify the geographical conditions required for its growth.

Ans: One important beverage crop is tea. It needs specific conditions to grow well. Tea plants require a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. They thrive in well-drained, acidic soils, ideally with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Tea plants need ample rainfall, about 1500 to 2500 mm per year, and they grow best in high-altitude areas where there is mist or cloud cover. This environment helps protect the plants from too much heat and direct sunlight.

5. Enlist the various institutional reform programmes introduced by the government in the interest of farmers.

Ans: 

• Minimum Support Price (MSP): Guarantees a minimum price for crops to ensure farmers get a fair return.

• National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD): Offers loans and support to improve rural and farming infrastructure.

• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Provides crop insurance to protect farmers from losses due to bad weather or pests.

• Soil Health Management (SHM): Works on improving soil health by testing and adding needed nutrients.

• Kisan Credit Card (KCC): This makes it easier for farmers to get loans for their farming needs.

• Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF): Helps build and improve rural facilities like irrigation systems and roads.

6. Describe the impact of globalisation on Indian agriculture.

Ans: Impact of Globalization on Indian Agriculture:

• Increased Productivity: New farming techniques, better seeds, and technology have led to higher crop yields.

• Access to International Markets: Farmers can sell their produce globally, often getting better prices.

• Increased Competition: Foreign products can compete with local produce, sometimes lowering farmers' incomes.

• Shift to Cash Crops: More focus on cash crops for export can reduce the production of essential food crops.

• Wider Gap Between Farmers: Large-scale farmers benefit more from globalisation, widening the gap with smaller, less resourceful farmers.

• Market Access Issues: Small farmers may struggle to compete in global markets due to limited resources.

7. What are the geographical conditions needed for rice to grow? Explain.

Ans: Rice needs specific conditions to grow well. It requires a warm climate, with temperatures between 25°C to 35°C. It also needs a lot of water, so it grows best in flat areas that can hold water. The soil should be rich and able to keep water. Rice is usually grown in fields called paddies, which are kept flooded. These conditions help rice plants grow and produce a good crop.

8. What are the 3 main features of a ‘Rabi crop season?’

Ans: The three main features of the 'Rabi crop season' are:

• Timing: Rabi crops are grown during the winter season, typically from October to March. They are sown after the monsoon season and harvested in the spring.

• Climate: Rabi crops require a cool, dry climate to grow. They thrive in the winter months when temperatures are lower, which helps in the development and yield of the crops.

• Water Supply: Rabi crops rely mainly on irrigation as they are grown after the monsoon rains have ended. Farmers need to provide additional water through irrigation to ensure proper growth and harvest.

These features make the Rabi season distinct from other crop seasons and are crucial for successful farming.

9. Define the 3 main features of a ‘Kharif crop season’.

Ans: The Kharif crop season has three main features:

• Timing: The Kharif season starts with the monsoon rains and runs from June to October. This season benefits from the heavy rainfall and warm weather.

• Crops: During this season, farmers grow crops that need a lot of water. Common Kharif crops include rice, maize, and cotton. These crops thrive in the wet conditions of this season.

• Harvesting: Kharif crops are usually harvested from September to December. The crops are gathered after the monsoon rains, as they have had enough water to grow well.

These features make the Kharif season an important time for growing crops that rely on rain and warm temperatures.

10. Name any two major fibre crops grown in India. Describe the conditions required to grow these two crops.

Ans: The major fibre crops grown in India are cotton and jute.

• Cotton requires a warm climate with plenty of sunshine and well-drained soil. It grows best in regions with moderate rainfall and temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.

• Jute needs a hot and humid climate with abundant water. It grows well in areas with high rainfall and temperatures around 25°C to 35°C. The soil should be loamy and able to retain moisture. Both crops need proper irrigation and pest control to thrive.

11. Mention any five institutional reform programmes introduced by the government in the interest of the farmers.

Ans: 

• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): This program gives insurance for crops if they are damaged by natural events or pests.

• National Agriculture Market (e-NAM): An online platform where farmers can sell their crops to get better prices in different markets.

• Soil Health Management (SHM): This scheme improves soil health with organic fertilisers and soil testing.

• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): A program that focuses on better irrigation to make sure water reaches all farms.

• Kisan Credit Card (KCC): Provides farmers with easy access to credit for buying seeds, fertilisers, and other farming needs.

12. What are the climatic conditions, temperature, and rainfall needed for growing jowar in India?

Ans: Jowar, also known as sorghum, grows well in warm and dry climates. It needs a temperature range of 25°C to 35°C to thrive. Jowar can tolerate high temperatures and does not need too much water, making it suitable for areas with low to moderate rainfall. Ideally, it requires around 500 to 800 mm of rainfall annually. However, it can also grow in regions with less rain if irrigation is provided. The crop prefers well-drained, sandy loam soils but can adapt to various soil types. Ensuring these conditions will help Jowar grow successfully in different parts of India.

13. What are the four features of subsistence farming?

Ans: Four features of subsistence farming are:

• Small-Scale Production: Subsistence farming is done on small plots of land. Farmers grow just enough crops and raise enough animals to meet their own needs, with little left over to sell.

• Manual Labour: Most work is done by hand or with simple tools. Farmers rely on their labour and that of their family members.

• Diverse Crops: Farmers often grow a variety of crops and keep different types of animals to ensure they have enough food throughout the year.

• Low Technology: Subsistence farming usually uses traditional methods and low-tech equipment. There is minimal use of machinery or modern farming techniques.

14. What are the three features of commercial farming in India?

Ans: Commercial farming in India has three main features:

• Large-Scale Production: This type of farming involves growing crops on a big scale, using advanced machines and tools. This helps produce a lot of crops to sell in the market.

• Cash Crops: Farmers grow crops like cotton, sugarcane, and tea, which are sold for money rather than for personal use. These crops are grown to make a profit.

• Modern Methods: Farmers use new techniques like high-yield seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides. These methods help in growing more crops and make farming more efficient.

These features make commercial farming a key part of India's agriculture, focusing on high production and profit.

15. What is the main purpose of the public distribution system?

Ans: The main purpose of the public distribution system (PDS) is to ensure that essential goods like food and fuel are available to everyone at affordable prices. It helps low-income families and people in need by providing these items through government-run shops.

• The PDS ensures that essential goods are available to everyone, especially those with low incomes, at lower prices.

• It supports families who may have difficulty affording necessities.

• The system aims to reduce poverty and prevent hunger by providing access to essential items.

• It helps stabilise market prices and control inflation by managing the supply of goods.

• By making sure people can get the items they need, it improves their overall living standards.

16. What climatic conditions are necessary for growing tea? Name two major tea-producing states.

Ans: Tea needs specific climatic conditions to grow well. It requires a warm, humid environment with lots of rainfall throughout the year. The best temperatures for tea are between 20°C and 30°C, and high humidity helps the plants grow.

Necessary Climatic Conditions:

• Tea grows best in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

• It needs a lot of rain throughout the year.

• High humidity is important for healthy tea plants.

Two Major Tea-Producing States in India:

• Assam is known for its strong and bold tea.

• Darjeeling in West Bengal is famous for its fragrant and delicate tea.

17. Describe sugarcane crops and provide a brief overview.

Ans: Sugarcane is a tall plant that grows in hot places and is known for its sweet stalks. These stalks are used to make sugar and other products.

• Growth: It grows well in warm areas with plenty of rain or water. It is planted in rows and takes about a year to 18 months to be ready for harvest.

• Harvesting: The stalks are cut close to the ground, either by hand or with machines.

• Processing: The harvested stalks are crushed to get juice, which is then boiled to make sugar.

• Uses: Sugarcane is used to make sugar, ethanol (a fuel), molasses, and rum.

• Economic Importance: Growing sugarcane provides jobs and supports local economies in many countries.

18. How does commercial farming differ from plantation farming?

Ans: Commercial farming and plantation farming are two different ways of growing crops. Both aim to produce large amounts of crops but have unique methods.

Commercial Farming:

• This type involves growing a variety of crops on a large scale for sale, not just for personal use.

• It uses modern machines, technology, and chemicals to boost production and efficiency.

• It can include different crops like grains, vegetables, and fruits.

• It usually happens in areas with the right climate and good facilities.

Plantation Farming:

• This type focuses on growing just one kind of crop, such as tea, coffee, or rubber, on a large estate.

• It depends a lot on manual labour for planting and harvesting crops.

• It takes place in tropical regions with the right climate for that particular crop.

• The crops are mostly grown for export rather than for local use.

19. Which states are the top producers of millet in India?

Ans: India grows a lot of millet, and several states are the top producers. These states have the right conditions for growing millet and are key to its production.

• Rajasthan is the largest producer of millet in India due to its dry climate, which is perfect for growing millet.

• Uttar Pradesh has large areas of farmland that are well-suited for millet cultivation.

• Madhya Pradesh contributes significantly to millet production through its diverse farming practices.

• Gujarat is another major producer, benefiting from its favourable farming environment.

• Karnataka also produces a lot of millet because its climate and soil are ideal for this crop.

20. Why do farming practices differ in various regions? List three main reasons.

Ans: Farming practices vary across regions due to differences in local conditions and resources. Each area has unique factors that influence how farming is done.

Here are three main reasons:

• Climate: Different regions have varying climates, such as temperature and rainfall. These factors determine the types of crops that can be grown and the farming methods used.

• Soil Type: Soil quality and type differ from place to place. Some soils are better for growing certain crops, while others may need special treatment or fertilisers.

• Water Availability: The amount of water available for irrigation can vary. Regions with more water can support different crops and farming techniques compared to areas with less water.

21. What are some basic tools used in ‘slash and burn’ agriculture?

Ans: Slash and burn agriculture is a traditional farming method where trees and plants are cut down and burned to clear the land for farming.

• Machete: Used to cut down trees and bushes.

• Axe: Helps chop larger trees or thick branches.

• Hoe: Used for digging and preparing the soil after burning.

• Spade: Useful for turning the soil and planting seeds.

• Fire: Burns the cleared plants to clear the land and add nutrients to the soil.

22. What is horticulture?

Ans: Horticulture is the part of farming that deals with growing fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, and plants like flowers. It involves caring for these plants to produce good quality food and attractive landscapes.

• Fruits and Vegetables: Horticulture includes growing a variety of fruits and vegetables for people to eat.

• Flowers and Ornamental Plants: It also involves growing flowers and other decorative plants for gardens and homes.

• Techniques and Practices: Horticulturists use methods like managing soil and controlling pests to help plants grow better.

• Economic Importance: Horticulture helps the economy by creating jobs and providing fresh food and beautiful plants for different areas.

23. What are the main types of farming practised in India? Describe each type briefly.

Ans: In India, the main types of farming are:

• Subsistence Farming: Farmers grow crops mainly for their own family’s needs, with little surplus for sale. It usually involves small plots of land and simple tools.

• Commercial Farming: This type is aimed at producing crops for sale in the market. It uses advanced techniques and machinery to produce large quantities of crops.

• Mixed Farming: Farmers grow both crops and raise livestock on the same farm. This approach helps in improving soil fertility and provides additional income.

• Plantation Farming: Large-scale farms grow crops like tea, coffee, and rubber. It requires a lot of labour and produces crops for commercial sale.

24. Describe the different types of soils found in India. How does soil type affect crop cultivation?

Ans: India has several types of soils:

• Alluvial Soil: Found in river basins, it is very fertile and good for growing crops like rice and wheat.

• Black Soil: Rich in minerals, it is ideal for cotton and sugarcane cultivation.

• Red Soil: Contains iron, making it suitable for crops like millet and potatoes but often requires fertilisers to improve fertility.

• Laterite Soil: Found in humid regions, it is used for growing cashews and tea but needs proper management due to its low fertility.

Soil type affects which crops can grow well. Fertile soils support a wide range of crops, while less fertile soils may require more inputs to grow crops effectively.

25. What are the challenges faced by Indian farmers in modern agriculture? How can these challenges be addressed?

Ans: Indian farmers face several challenges:

• Water Scarcity: Many regions suffer from inadequate water supply, affecting crop yields. Solutions include improving irrigation systems and promoting water conservation practices.

• Soil Degradation: Overuse of chemicals depletes soil nutrients. Using organic fertilisers and crop rotation can help maintain soil health.

• Pest Infestation: Pests can destroy crops and reduce yields. Integrated pest management, including natural predators and safer pesticides, can address this issue.

• Lack of Modern Technology: Many farmers use outdated methods. Providing access to modern tools and techniques can increase productivity and efficiency.

26. Explain the concept of 'cropping patterns' and discuss the major cropping patterns followed in India.

Ans: Cropping patterns refer to the way crops are grown on a piece of land over a year. It includes the types of crops planted and their arrangement.

• Kharif Crops: Planted during the monsoon season (June to September), such as rice, cotton, and sugarcane.

• Rabi Crops: Grown in winter (October to March), including wheat, barley, and pulses.

• Zaid Crops: Grown in between the Kharif and Rabi seasons (March to June), like melons and cucumbers.

Important Topics of Class 10 Geography Chapter 4 Agriculture

In Class 10 Geography Chapter 4, "Agriculture," students explore various important topics related to farming and crop production. Understanding these topics helps students understand how agriculture works and why it is important in everyday life.

Benefits of Learning with Agriculture Class 10 Important Questions and Answers

• Using Vedantu’s important questions helps students concentrate on the most important parts of the chapter, making their study time more efficient.

• Practising these questions prepares students for the kinds of questions they will see on the exam, helping them feel more confident.

• Regular practice with these questions can lead to higher marks in Social Science by reinforcing important ideas and improving exam skills.

• Learning about agriculture helps students understand how food is grown and the challenges farmers face, which is useful in everyday life.

• This chapter teaches about problems like soil and water issues, helping students understand the need for better farming practices.

• Understanding this chapter helps students see how farming affects the environment and economy, which is valuable for real-life decisions and future learning.

Conclusion

Understanding Chapter 4 of Agriculture Class 10 Important Questions and Answers is very important. It teaches about different farming methods, how crops are grown, and the main crops in India. The chapter also covers the challenges farmers face, like water problems and soil issues. Knowing these things helps students see why agriculture is crucial for providing food and supporting the economy. For more help with your studies, check out Vedantu's live classes and study materials. Start learning about agriculture now to do well in Geography. Vedantu's resources will help you understand the chapter better and prepare for your exams.

Important Study Materials for Class 10 Geography Chapter 4

CBSE Class 10 Geography Chapter-wise Important Questions

Additional Study Materials for Class 10 Geography