In the context of India, which of the following is/are considered to be practice(s) of eco-friendly agriculture ? 1. Crop diversification 2. Legume intensification 3. Tensiometer use 4. Vertical farming Select the correct answer using the code given below :
- (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 4 only
- (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• Eco-friendly agriculture reduces chemical inputs, conserves water and soil, and lowers emissions.
• Crop diversification (1) breaks pest cycles and reduces monoculture risk; legume intensification (2) fixes nitrogen naturally, cutting fertiliser use.
• Tensiometers (3) measure soil moisture so irrigation is applied only when needed, saving water.
• Vertical farming (4) grows crops in stacked layers with recirculated water and no pesticides, using far less land and water.
• Hence 1, 2, 3 and 4, option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
- Vertical farming is also eco-friendly.
- (b) 3 only
- Crop diversification, legumes and vertical farming also qualify.
- (c) 4 only
- Diversification, legumes and tensiometers also qualify.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2020, held on 4 October 2020. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.