What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'? 1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation. 2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this. 3. There is no application of chemical/inorganic fertilizers at all in this. 4. The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 1, 2 and 4 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Why the answer is (b)
• The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (ICRISAT–WWF, 2009) raises single-bud chip settlings in a nursery and transplants them at wide spacing, cutting seed-cane use by about 75% (statement 1).
• Wide spacing suits drip irrigation (statement 2) and leaves room for intercropping with pulses or vegetables (statement 4).
• Statement 3 is wrong: SSI reduces but does not eliminate chemical fertilisers, favouring organic supplements.
• Hence 1, 2 and 4 only, option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- Statement 3 is wrong: fertilisers are reduced, not eliminated.
- (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
- Statement 3 is wrong; statement 1 is correct.
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- Statement 3 is wrong.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2014, held on 24 August 2014. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.