Social Science STD 8 Chapter 11: Agriculture : Exercises

1. Answer the following questions:

1. 1. State the factors affecting agriculture.

   The factors affecting agriculture are the favorable topography of soil, water, and climate.

2. 2. What does the government do to help farmers develop agriculture?

   The government helps farmers by providing them with continuous information, new technologies, and guidance through media like radio, television, newspapers, and dedicated channels like 'Kisan channel'. It also provides financial assistance through Kisan Credit Cards and nationalized banks. Additionally, the government organizes agricultural fairs and has set up a toll-free number (1800 180 1551) for farmers.

3. 3. Which are the main crops grown in Gujarat?

   The main crops grown in Gujarat include millet, wheat, rice, groundnut, cotton, sugarcane, and castor.

4. 4. Name the types of agriculture.

   The types of agriculture are Subsistence Farming, Shifting (Jhoom) Farming, Intensive Farming, Dry Farming, Wet Farming, and Horticulture (Plantation Farming).

5. 5. Which vegetations are used in biological pesticides?

   Vegetations like neem, karanj, mahudo, tulsi, ratanjyot, mint, bitter gourd, tobacco, and sevanti are used in biological pesticides.

6. 6. Distinguish between horticulture and intensive farming.

   Horticulture involves cultivating fruit orchards, and the crops are perennial, giving produce for many years after being sown once. It requires careful maintenance.

   Intensive farming is a modern method that uses extensive irrigation, improved seeds, fertilizers, and machinery to achieve high production per hectare. It is primarily focused on cash crops for economic returns.

7. 7. What is used in organic pesticides?

   Organic pesticides use natural ingredients like neem, karanj, and mahudo, as well as biological agents like bacteria and fungi to control pests.

8. 8. Which region of Gujarat near Bharuch is known for its production of long stringed cotton?

   The Kanam region of Gujarat near Bharuch is known for its production of long-stringed cotton.

2. Choose the correct option from the following options and write answer:

1. 1. In which types of farming the yield is less?

   Jhoom farming

2. 2. Which plant is not used in biological pesticides?

   Mushroom

3. 3. Which country ranks first in the world in the production of castor?

   India

4. 4. Which state is called 'Wheat Bowl of India'?

   Punjab

3. Give Reasons:

1. 1. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and chemical pesticides is harmful.

   Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides is harmful because they can lead to soil and water pollution. The toxins from these chemicals can also be present in agricultural products, which can have long-term adverse effects on human health.

2. 2. Different crops are grown in different regions.

   Different crops are grown in different regions because of the variations in geographical conditions, climate, soil types, and rainfall. A crop like rice requires a hot and humid climate with high rainfall, while wheat needs a moderate temperature and specific soil conditions.

3. 3. The trend towards biological pesticides is increasing.

   The trend towards biological pesticides is increasing because they are a safer alternative to chemical pesticides. Chemical pesticides cause soil and water pollution and can be harmful to human health. Biological pesticides, which use natural ingredients and bacteria, are effective in controlling pests without these harmful side effects.

4. 4. Drip irrigation system is the best irrigation system in agriculture.

   The drip irrigation system is considered one of the best because it is highly efficient in water conservation, saving up to 40% to 60% of water. It delivers water and nutrients directly to the roots of the plants, reducing evaporation and waterlogging. This method also saves on labor and electricity, reduces weed growth, and lowers the spread of pests, thereby improving overall crop quality and yield.

4. Explain the Terms:

1. 1. Agriculture

   Agriculture is a broad term that includes farming activities such as growing cereals, oilseeds, pulses, fruits, and vegetables, as well as animal husbandry. It is an organized system with inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and labor, and outputs such as crops, wool, and dairy products.

2. 2. Plantation farming

   Plantation farming, also known as horticulture, is the cultivation of crops in orchards. These crops, such as rubber, tea, coffee, and fruits, are sown once and continue to give produce for many years. It requires specific care and is a form of intensive farming.

3. 3. Dry farming

   Dry farming is a method of cultivation practiced in areas with low rainfall and inadequate irrigation. Crops like jowar, millet, and pulses, which require less water, are typically grown. In some cases, cultivation is done after monsoon when the land retains moisture.

4. 4. Wet farming

   Wet farming is practiced in regions that receive high rainfall or have abundant irrigation facilities. This method allows for growing more than one crop in a year. Common crops include paddy, sugarcane, cotton, and various vegetables.

5. Fill in the blanks:

1. 1. Gujarat ranks ........ in India in terms of cotton production.

   first

2. 2. Intensive farming is also called ........ farming.

   commercial

3. 3. The highest production of groundnut in Gujarat is in the ........ district.

   Junagadh

4. 4. About ........ per cent of the world's population is engaged in farming activities.

   50

5. 5. Black cotton soil is also known as ........

   Regur

6. Write short notes:

1. 1. Intensive farming

   Intensive farming is a modern and commercial method of agriculture. It involves extensive use of irrigation facilities, improved seeds, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery to achieve maximum production per hectare. This type of farming is highly profitable and is becoming increasingly popular. In Gujarat, it is practiced in districts like Surat, Valsad, and Anand, and is primarily focused on growing cash crops for economic returns.

2. 2. Development of agriculture

   Agricultural development involves efforts to increase production to meet the demands of a growing population. This is achieved through various means, including expanding the area of cultivation, growing multiple crops, using improved irrigation systems, and adopting modern technologies like better seeds and fertilizers. The government plays an active role by providing farmers with financial assistance, training, and information through various channels. Cooperative activities have also been instrumental in the development of agriculture.

3. 3. Rice

   Rice is a major food crop in India and the world. It requires a hot and humid climate with high rainfall, making it suitable for cultivation in irrigated fields. The production of rice is labor-intensive. In India, major producing states include West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. In Gujarat, it is grown in districts such as Kheda, Vadodara, and Ahmedabad.

4. 4. Black soil

   Black soil is known for its high moisture-retaining capacity. When it dries, deep cracks can appear. This soil is considered the most suitable for growing cotton, which is why it is also called 'Black Cotton Soil' or 'Regur'. It is also used to cultivate crops like linseed, mustard, groundnut, and tobacco.

5. 5. Drip irrigation system

   The drip irrigation system is a micro-irrigation method that saves water by delivering it directly to the plant's roots through pipes and drippers. This reduces water waste from evaporation and helps in the efficient use of fertilizers. It is particularly effective for crops with spacing between rows, such as cotton, castor, and various fruits and vegetables. This system saves water, labor, and electricity, and also helps in reducing weed growth and pest spread. The government provides financial assistance to encourage farmers to adopt this method.