1. Which of the following is not mentioned in the ‘Farmers Produce, Trade and Commerce Bill 2020’ of India?
(a) Essential Commodities
(b) Contract Farming
(c) Minimum Support Price
(d) Agriculture Produce Market Committees
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (*)
- The Farmer’s Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill from 2020 was a law that allowed farmers to trade their produce outside of APMC markets without paying extra fees.
- It didn’t mention Essential Commodities, Contract Farming, or Minimum Support Price, which were all included in the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act and Farmer (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act.
- All of these laws were repealed in December 2021.
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2. Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other as Reason (R) :
Assertion (A): The Union Budget 2020-21 has focused on Rural Development with aim of doubling farmers’ income.
Reason (R): The 16 Action points announced in the budget is centred around agriculture, irrigation and rural development.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
Codes :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
- The Finance Minister announced a plan with 16 points to help double farmers’ income by 2022.
- The 2020-21 budget puts a lot of focus on rural development and has put aside a huge amount of money to help with agriculture, irrigation, and rural development.
- Both statements are true and the second statement explains the first.
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3. Genetic industry includes :
(a) Agriculture
(b) Fishing
(c) Hunting
(d) Mining
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Re-Exam) (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (a) Agriculture
- Genetic industries reproduce and multiply certain plants and animals so they can be sold for profit.
- Examples of these industries include nurseries (where plants are grown to sell), poultry farms (where birds are raised for meat and eggs), animal husbandry, pisciculture (where fish are grown in ponds, canals and rivers), orchards (for harvesting fruits) and farming (for growing crops).
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4. Which one among the followings is not an objective of food management in India?
(a) Distribution of food grains
(b) Procurement of food grains
(c) Maintenance of food grains buffer stock
(d) Export of food grains
(e) None of the above / More than one of the above
[66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (d) Export of food grains
- The main goals of food management in India are getting food grains and keeping a supply of them stored.
- Exporting food grains is not part of food management in India.
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5. Which of the following factors/policies were affecting the price of rice in India in the recent past?
1. Minimum Support Price
2. Government’s trading
3. Government’s stockpiling
4. Consumer subsidies
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- In the recent past, several policies and factors have impacted the price of rice in India.
- The Minimum Support Price (MSP) helps protect farmers from drastic price drops.
- The government buys a big portion of the country’s rice production at a set price, which affects the cost that traders must pay.
- The Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) was implemented to avoid an increase in grain prices.
- Prices of rice (and wheat) were kept steady due to a good supply and the Food Corporation of India’s (FCI) large buffer stock. Subsidies for consumers, like the National Food Security Act, provided rice at a low cost of Rs. 3 per kg to poor households.
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6. In India, which of the followings can be considered as public investment in agriculture?
1. Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops.
2. Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies.
3. Social Capital development.
4. Free electricity supply to farmers.
5. Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system.
6. Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only
(c) 2, 3 and 6 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (c) 2, 3 and 6 only
- Public investment is putting money into creating things like cold storage, canals, roads, computers for credit unions, education, training, research and development.
- Subsidies and loan waivers are not investments, and free electricity and loan waivers for farmers are part of the government’s subsidy policy.
- Public investment in agriculture is money the government spends to make capital or social assets to make farming better.
- Setting a minimum selling price (MSP) does not create any infrastructure, so statement 1, 4 and 5 are not correct.
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7. What is/are the advantage/advantages of implementing the ‘National Agriculture Market’ scheme?
1. It is a pan-India electronic trading portal for agricultural commodities.
2. It provides the farmers access to nationwide market, with prices commensurate with the quality of their produce.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (c) Both 1 and 2
- eNAM is an online market platform that connects all Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) in India.
- The goal is to create an online market for all agricultural products, allowing farmers to get a fair price for their produce and consumers to get better quality items at a reasonable cost.
- This allows everyone to benefit from the unified national market.
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8. Suraj Dhara Yojana is :
(a) loan related
(b) exchange of seeds
(c) tikakaran
(d) insurance related
(e) None of the above
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (b) exchange of seeds
- The Madhya Pradesh Government has started the Suraj Dhara Yojana in order to help SC/ST tribes farmers switch from growing millet crops to cultivating oilseeds and pulses.
- The scheme involves a seed exchange programme.
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9. Who among the followings did not approve the idea of co-operative farming in India?
(a) Jawahar Lal Nehru
(b) Lal Bahadur Sashtri
(c) Charan Singh
(d) Abul Kalam Azad
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1996]
Ans. (c) Charan Singh
- Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh disagreed with the Nehruvian way of managing the economy.
- He believed that cooperative farming would not be successful in India, so he was not in favor of it.
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10. What is meant by a Bullock Capitalist?
(a) Farmers who are poor
(b) Farmers who are rich
(c) Farmers who have some resources but are not rich
(d) Farmers who are big Zamindars
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (c) Farmers who have some resources but are not rich
- The self-employed and self-funded producers with holdings large enough to support a pair of bullocks are defined as ‘Bullock Capitalists’ by Lloyd and Susanne Rudolph (1987) while
denoting the crucial role of public subsidies in preserving this faction of informal agrarian capitalism.
- They are small to medium-sized, self-employed agricultural producers who have some resources but are not rich.
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11. Which one of the followings is not a part of land reforms in India?
(a) Abolition of Zamindari system
(b) Ceiling on land holdings
(c) Tenancy reforms
(d) Multiple-cropping scheme
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2015]
Ans. (d) Multiple-cropping scheme
- At the time of India gaining independence, there was an agricultural system where land was owned by only a few people.
- To make the country prosperous, it was essential to change this, so the Zamindari system was abolished, limits were set on how much land people could own, and changes were made to the laws about renting land.
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12. Which of the following measures have been taken to make the agrarian structure conducive to agricultural growth?
(a) Abolition of Intermediaries
(b) Tenancy reforms
(c) Ceiling on land holdings
(d) All of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2017]
Ans. (d) All of the above
- In India, measures have been taken to help farming grow, such as getting rid of middle-men, changing laws about renting land, and limiting how much land one person can own.
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13. With reference to the measures of tenancy reforms in India, which of the statements is/are correct?
1. Regulation of rent
2. Security of tenure
3. Conferment of ownership on tenants
Select the correct answer using codes given below :
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Land reforms are intended to make land ownership more equal and make sure that land is used in the most efficient way.
- This involves getting rid of middlemen and making sure tenants have security and are able to own the land.
- This lets the farmers be connected directly to the government, and gives them a secure environment to benefit from their work.
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14. The size of marginal landholding in India is :
(a) more than 5 hectares
(b) 2 hectares to 4 hectares
(c) 1 hectare to 2 hectares
(d) less than 1 hectare
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[63rd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (d) less than 1 hectare
- In the Indian Agriculture Census, farms are divided into five different sizes: Marginal (less than 1 hectare), Small (1 to 2 hectares), Semi-Medium (2 to 4 hectares), Medium (4 to 10 hectares), and Large (10 hectare and above).
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15. The size of marginal landholdings in India is :
(a) More than 5 hectares
(b) 2 hectares to 4 hectares
(c) 1 hectare to 2 hectares
(d) Less than 1 hectare
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (d) Less than 1 hectare
- The amount of land owned by people in India is very small, usually less than one hectare, which is equal to 2.5
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16. A farmer, which has land holding between 1 to 2 hectares is known as :
(a) Marginal Farmer
(b) Big Farmer
(c) Medium Farmer
(d) Small Farmer
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (a) Marginal Farmer
- A marginal farmer is someone who grows crops on a small amount of land, usually less than one acre (0.4 hectares) or a maximum of 1 hectare (2.5 acres).
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17. The average size of landholdings in Bihar in comparison with other States is :
(a) lowest
(b) second lowest
(c) highest
(d) second highest
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[63rd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (b) second lowest
- According to the Agriculture Census 2015-16, the average size of landholdings in Bihar is 0.39 hectares, which is the second lowest in India after Kerala (0.18 hectares).
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18. The most critical stage for irrigation in wheat is :
(a) C.R.I. stage
(b) Tillering stage
(c) Booting stage
(d) Jointing stage
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2005]
Ans. (a) C.R.I. stage
- Irrigation is very important for wheat crops, especially during the C.R.I. (Crown root initiation), tillering, jointing, booting, flowering, milk and dough stages.
- The most crucial stage for irrigation is C.R.I., as this is when the plant is most vulnerable to lack of moisture.
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19. Which of the followings is the effective reason of slow agricultural development in India?
(a) Rural Poverty
(b) Urban Poverty
(c) Skilled Labour
(d) Migration from cities to villages
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (a) Rural Poverty
- Irrigation is very important for wheat crops, especially during the C.R.I. (Crown root initiation), tillering, jointing, booting, flowering, milk and dough stages.
- The most crucial stage for irrigation is C.R.I., as this is when the plant is most vulnerable to lack of moisture.
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20. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer–
| List-I |
List-II |
| A. Land allotted to big feudal landlords |
1. Jagirdari System |
| B. Land allocated to revenue farmers or rent collectors |
2. Ryotwari System |
| C. Land allocated to each peasant with the right to sublet, mortgage, gift or sell |
3. Mahalwari System |
| D. Revenue settlement made at village level |
4. Zamindari System |
Codes:
A B C D
(a) 1 3 2 4
(b) 1 4 2 3
(c) 3 4 1 2
(d) 2 1 3 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2000]
Ans. (b) 1 4 2 3
| The correctly matched lists are as follow : |
|
|
| Land allotted to big feudal landlords |
Jagirdari System |
|
|
Land allotted to revenue farmers or
rent collectors |
Zamindari System |
|
|
|
|
Land allotted to each peasent with
the right to sublet, mortgage, gift
or sell |
Ryotwari System |
|
|
| Revenue settlements made at village |
Mahalwari System |
|
|
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21. The black soil of India is highly suited for the production of
(a) Cotton crop
(b) Paddy crop
(c) Sugarcane crop
(d) Wheat crop
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (a) Cotton crop
- The Deccan Plateau, which covers parts of various states such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, is mainly made up of black soil (also known as Regur Soil or Black Cotton Soil).
- This soil is ideal for growing cotton, because it holds moisture for a long time, which is beneficial for rain fed crops.
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22. The substitution of steel for wooden ploughs in agricultural production is an example of :
(a) labour-augmenting technological progress
(b) capital-augmenting technological progress
(c) capital-reducing technological progress
(d) None of the above
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (b) capital-augmenting technological progress
- In economics, ‘capital’ refers to machines or objects used to make other goods.
- For example, replacing wooden ploughs with steel ploughs in farming is a form of technological advancement that increases the use of steel.
- This is referred to as capital-augmenting progress.
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23. The share of agriculture and allied sectors in the Gross Domestic Product of India is :
(a) 22 percent
(b) 80 percent
(c) 33 percent
(d) 15 percent
[48th to 52nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (d) 15 percent
- In 2008-09, the share of agriculture and other related sectors in India’s Gross Domestic Product was around 15%. According to the 2021-22 Economic Survey, the estimated share of agriculture and related sectors in Nominal GVA (at current prices) was 18.4% in 2019-20.
- It is estimated that it will be 20.2% in 2020-21 and 18.8% in 2021-22.
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24. Share of agriculture in National income of India is around
(a) 20 %
(b) 25 %
(c) 30 %
(d) 35 %
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (*)
- The question does not specify which financial year the share of agriculture in national income is being asked for.
- It is also not clear if the contribution is being asked at current or constant prices.
- In 2012-13, the contribution of agriculture to the GDP was 15.10% at current prices and 11.85% at constant prices.
- According to the Economic Survey 2021-22, the share of agriculture and related sectors in GVA was 20.2% in 2020-21 (at current prices) and 18.4% in 2019-20 (at current prices).
- The share of agriculture and related sectors in GVA has decreased to 18.8% in 2021-22 (at current prices) according to the First Advance Estimates.
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25. The contribution of agriculture at present in National G.D.P. is approximately :
(a) 18%
(b) 23%
(c) 25%
(d) 28%
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (*)
- The Economic Survey from 2012-13 reported that in 2011-12, agriculture and related industries made up 14.1% of the country’s GDP.
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26. At present, the contribution of agriculture in the National Income of India stands at :
(a) 33 per cent
(b) 44 per cent
(c) 55 per cent
(d) 61 per cent
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1996, 1998]
Ans. (*)
- In 1996-97 and 1997-98, agriculture and related activities made up 26.19% and 24.47% of the national income respectively.
- The Economic Survey of 2021-22 showed that in 2020-21, the share of agriculture and related activities in Gross Value Added (GVA) was 20.2%, and for 2019-20, it was 18.4%.
- The First Advance Estimates also showed that the share of agriculture and related activities in GVA has decreased to 18.8% in 2021-22.
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27. What has been the share of agriculture and allied sectors in the GDP of India in 2010-11 ?
(a) Nearly 20 Percent
(b) Nearly 15 Percent
(c) Nearly 10 Percent
(d) Nearly 8 Percent
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Spl.) (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (b) Nearly 15 Percent
- In 2010-11, agriculture and its related sectors contributed about 15% to India’s GDP.
- According to the 2021-22 Economic Survey, these sectors make up around 20.2% of the nation’s Gross Value Added for 2020-21 and 18.4% of the GVA for 2019-20.
- The First Advance Estimates show that the share of agriculture and related sectors in the GVA has dropped to 18.8% in 2021-22.
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28. The contribution of agriculture in Indian Economy is :
(a) increasing
(b) decreasing
(c) constant
(d) None of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2017]
Ans. (b) decreasing
- According to the 2021-22 Economic Survey, the contribution of agriculture and related sectors to India’s overall economic growth has been decreasing since 2013-14.
- This is due to the higher growth of other industries, and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have caused a temporary increase in the sector’s share of GVA.
- However, this year it has decreased again to 18.8%.
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29. Since the advent of Planning era in India, the share of agriculture sector in GDP has:
(a) continued to decline
(b) continued to rise
(c) first increased and then declined
(d) first declined and then increased
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1999, U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2004]
Ans. (a) continued to decline
- In 1950-51, when India’s Planning era began, the share of agriculture in the GDP was over 50%.
- This number has gone down since then, reaching 17.4% in 2006-07, 14.5% in 2010-11 and 14.1% in 2011-12.
- As per the Economic Survey 2021-22, agriculture and related activities made up 20.2% of the country’s Gross Value Added in 2020-21 (in Provisional Estimates) and 18.4% in First Revised Estimates.
- As per the First Advance Estimates, the share of agriculture and related sectors in GVA decreased to 18.8% in 2021-22.
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30. As per the NSSO 70th Round ‘Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households’, consider the following statements :
1. Rajasthan has the highest percentage share of agricultural households among its rural households.
2. Out of the total agricultural households in the country, a little over 60 percent belong to OBCs.
3. In Kerala, a little over 60 percent of agricultural households reported to have received maximum income from sources other than agricultural activities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3 only
- The NSSO did a survey of agricultural households in 2013 and released the results in 2014.
- This report showed that rural India had around 90.2 million agricultural households, which was around 57.8% of all rural households.
- Rajasthan had the highest percentage of agricultural households (78.4%), while Kerala had the least (27.3%). Around 45% of agricultural households were from OBCs, 16% from SCs, and 13% from STs.
- In most states, agriculture was the main source of income, but in Kerala 61% of agricultural households earned the most from other sources.
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31. What is the percentage of rural households which is engaged in agriculture, as estimated by National Sample Survey Office in 2014?
(a) 52.5%
(b) 55.6%
(c) 57.8%
(d) 59.2%
[U.P. P.C.S (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (c) 57.8%
- The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) did a survey in 2013 to find out about agricultural households.
- The report on this survey was released in 2014. 57.8% of rural households in India were agricultural households. Rajasthan had the most agricultural households (78.4%) while Kerala had the least (27.3%). 45% of these households were from the OBCs, 16% from the SCs, and 13% from the STs.
- Most of the households in all the major states got their income from agricultural activities, except Kerala where 61% of the households got their income from sources other than agriculture.
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32. Which one of the following States has largest area under Soyabean cultivation ?
(a) Uttar Pradesh
(b) Bihar
(c) Madhya Pradesh
(d) Maharashtra
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) Madhya Pradesh
- In 2009-10, the most land used to grow soybeans was in Madhya Pradesh (5.35 million hectares) and the second most was in Maharashtra (3.02 million hectares).
- According to the 2021 Kharif season the three states with the most land used to grow soybeans are:In 2020-21 (4th A.E.), the three biggest states for soybean production were Madhya Pradesh (5.57 million hectares), Maharashtra (4.38 million hectares) and Rajasthan (9.3 million hectares).
- According to the Economic Survey 2021-22, Maharashtra produced the most soybeans with 6.20 million tonnes, followed by Madhya Pradesh (4.61 million tonnes) and Rajasthan ((1.09 million tonnes).
- It is notable that in 2020-21, Maharashtra outstripped Madhya Pradesh as the leading soybean producing State in the country.
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33. Which of the following countries has the highest per hectare production (2014) of cotton in the world?
(a) Israel
(b) Mexico
(c) Pakistan
(d) Australia
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (d) Australia
- Australia produces the most cotton per hectare of land out of any other country in the world according to 2021 estimates from the US Department of Agriculture.
- The top 5 producing countries are Australia (2071 Kg/ha), China (1879 Kg/ha), Brazil (1803 Kg/ha), Turkey (1645 Kg/ha) and Israel (1611 Kg/ha).
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34. The average yield of cotton is highest in India for the State of :
(a) West Bengal
(b) Bihar
(c) Assam
(d) Andhra Pradesh
(e) None of the above / More than one of the above
[63rd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (e) None of the above / More than one of the above
- According to the 2019-20 estimates (source: Agricultural Statistics at a Glance-2020), India’s highest cotton yield is in Punjab, at 810 kg per hectare.
- But, the highest yield among the given states is in Andhra Pradesh, at 649 kg per hectare.
- Rajasthan is in third place with a yield of 623 kg per hectare.
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35. The descending order of the following States from the point of view of wheat production in the country is :
(a) Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar
(b) Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar
(c) Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana
(d) Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh.
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (a) Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar
- The order of wheat production in the mentioned states was Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar.
- According to the Economic Survey 2021-22, Uttar Pradesh was the top wheat producing state in 2020-21 with 35.50 million tonnes, followed by Madhya Pradesh (17.62 million tonnes) and Punjab (17.14 million tonnes).
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36. The net crop sown area in India is about :
(a) 12 crore hectares
(b) 16 crore hectares
(c) 14 crore hectares
(d) 17 crore hectares
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) 14 crore hectares
- In 2015, the Agricultural Statistics at a Glance Report showed that in 2012-13, India had 13.99 million hectares of crops and orchards.
- This means that any area sown more than once in that year was only counted once.
- According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Annual Report 2020-21, India’s total geographical area is 328.7 million hectares, of which 139.4 million hectares was reported as net sown area and 200.2 million hectares as gross cropped area with a cropping intensity of 143.6%.
- This works out to 42.4% of the total geographical area, with 68.6 million hectares being irrigated.
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37. The average cropping intensity of India is about :
(a) 110 percent
(b) 135 percent
(c) 160 percent
(d) 185 percent
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (b) 135 percent
- In 2009-10, the average cropping intensity in India was 135.79%, but according to the Land Use Statistics from 2016-17 (as reported in the Ministry of Agriculture’s 2020-21 Annual Report), the average cropping intensity has increased to 143.6%.
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38. In which of the following years, foodgrain production had a negative growth rate?
(a) 2001-02
(b) 2003-04
(c) 2004-05
(d) 2005-06
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (c) 2004-05
- Between 2004 and 2005, food production decreased. According to the 2021-22 estimates, in the last 15 years there have been 4 years (2009-10, 2012-13, 2014-15, and 2015-16) where food production decreased.
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39. In which of the following years, growth rate in agricultural sector was negative?
(a) 2012-13
(b) 2013-14
(c) 2014-15
(d) 2015-16
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (*)
- According to the first and second estimates of 2014-15, the agriculture and allied sectors had a negative growth rate of -0.2 and -0.3 percent. However, the updated data in the Economic Survey 2021-22 (2011-12 series) showed that these sectors had positive growth in all years.
- In the last two decades, only 2002-03 and 2008-09 had negative growth rate in agriculture and allied sectors, which were -4.4% and -0.6% respectively.
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40. During which year was the average annual growth rate (at constant prices) of agriculture and allied sectors negative?
(a) 2002-03
(b) 2003-04
(c) 2005-06
(d) 2006-07
[56th to 59th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) 2002-03
- The yearly average increase in agriculture and connected areas was bad in 2002-03.
- The 10th Five Year Plan (2002-2007) wanted to get an annual growth rate of 4%. Sadly, a severe drought in 2002 made agricultural growth turn negative in the first year of the plan.
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41. In the year 1997-98, Indian agriculture sector has shown a negative growth of :
(a) 2.4%
(b) 3.2%
(c) 3.5%
(d) 1%
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre)1998]
Ans. (d) 1%
- According to the Economic Survey 2021-22, the farming and related sectors had a decrease in growth rate of 0.9% in 1997-98. Therefore, option (d) is the most accurate answer.
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.
42. Under which Five Year Plan, did agriculture register a negative growth?
(a) Third
(b) Fifth
(c) Seventh
(d) Ninth
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (a) Third
- Agriculture showed a decrease in production during the Third Five Year Plan from 1961-1965, with a growth rate of -1.0%.
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43. Assertion (A): Near self -sufficiency has been achieved in India in the production of foodgrains.
Reason (R): India no longer imports foodgrains in bulk quantity.
In the context of above statements, which of the following is correct :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false.
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true.
[U.P.U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2002, U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2003]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
- The green revolution caused the production of foodgrains in India to increase four times from 1950-51 to 2001-02. The import of foodgrains was only 4.5% of the total import value in 2001-02.
- This means that the assertion and reason are both correct, with the reason providing an accurate explanation.
- In 2021-22, foodgrain production is expected to reach a new record of 316.06 million tonnes, compared to 310.74 and 297.50 million tonnes in 2020-21 and 2019-20 respectively.
|
44. What do we mean by the statement “India has achieved national food security but has not secured household security”?
(a) Each household does not have a buffer stock
(b) Food production has shown increase but per-capita availability has decreased
(c) The number of people below poverty line has increased
(d) There is sufficient food stock but all households do not have access to it
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (d) There is sufficient food stock but all households do not have access to it
- Thanks to the green revolution, India has seen a big increase in food production, but the population has grown quickly as well.
- Because of the capitalist policies that started in the 1990s, the poorer people have not seen much benefit from the country’s economic growth.
- Even though there is enough food, the people with little money cannot afford it. So, while India has achieved national food security, it has not yet achieved family security.
|
45. According to the report of CAG published in the year 2000 on PDS, the government subsidy on foodgrains increased from 1992-93 to 1998-99 by:
(a) more than two times
(b) more than three times
(c) more than four times
(d) more than five times
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2001, 2003, U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (b) more than three times
- In 1992-93, the government spent Rs. 2800 crore on food subsidies, which increased to Rs. 8700 crore by 1998-99. This is a 3.1 times increase
- . In 2022-23, the budget estimates Rs. 206831 crore for food subsidies.
- In 2021-22, the budget estimated Rs. 242836 crore, but the revised estimate is 18% higher at Rs. 286469 crore.
- In 2020-21, because of COVID-19 and arrears to FCI, the government spent an extraordinary amount on food subsidies, Rs. 541330 crore.
|
46. Which of the following is the largest vegetable-producing country in the world?
(a) China
(b) U.S.A.
(c) India
(d) Brazil
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) China
- China is the biggest producer of vegetables and fruits in the world.
- India is the second-largest producer, right after China. According to the FAO data (2019), India is the biggest producer of ginger and okra, and is the second-largest producer of potatoes, onions, cauliflowers, brinjals, cabbages, etc.
|
47. The amount of onion exported from India in 2015-16 was about :
(a) 7 lakh tonnes
(b) 9 lakh tonnes
(c) 10 lakh tonnes
(d) 12 lakh tonnes
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (d) 12 lakh tonnes
- In 2015-2016, India exported 12 million metric tons of onion with a value of about 2747 crores.
- In 2020-2021, the country exported 15 million metric tons of fresh onion with a value of 2826 crores, or 378 million US dollars.
|
48. ‘Kashi Lalima’ is the variety of which of the following crops?
(a) Carrot
(b) Okra/Ladyfinger
(c) Onion
(d) Tomato
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (b) Okra/Ladyfinger
- Kashi Lalima is a type of okra with reddish-purple fruits.
- It is resistant to two viruses, has medium-length internodes, and an average yield of 14-15 tons per hectare.
- It is high in anthocyanins and phenolics, and is suitable for both summer and the Kharif season.
- It is recommended for growing in Uttar Pradesh.
|
49. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the code given below :
| List – I |
List – II |
| (Fruit) |
(Largest Producer) |
| A. Mango |
1. Jammu & Kashmir |
| B. Litchi |
2. Kerala |
| C. Coconut |
3. Bihar |
| D. Apple |
4. Uttar Pradesh |
Code :
A B C D
(a) 4 3 1 2
(b) 1 2 3 4
(c) 4 3 2 1
(d) 1 2 4 3
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (c) 4 3 2 1
| The correctly matched lists are as follows : |
| Fruit Largest Producer |
| Mango |
Uttar Pradesh |
| Litchi |
Bihar |
| Coconut |
Kerala |
| Apple |
Jammu & Kashmir |
|
50. Which of the following pairs is not correctly matched?
(Crop) (Country)
(a) Rubber: Thailand
(b) Coffee: Mongolia
(c) Olive: Spain
(d) Sugarcane : Brazil
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (b) Coffee: Mongolia
- Mongolia does not grow coffee.
- The countries that produce the most coffee are Brazil, Vietnam and Colombia.
- The EU and the USA are the biggest buyers and importers of coffee.
- So, option (b) is not right, but the other choices are correct.
|
51. Arrange the following coffee-producing countries in descending order of their coffee production (2016, quantity) and select the correct answer from the codes given below :
A. Colombia B. Vietnam
C. Brazil D. Indonesia
Codes :
(a) D, C, B, A
(b) C, B, A, D
(c) B, D, C, A
(d) C, A, B, D
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) C, B, A, D
- According to the FAO, Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Indonesia are the top four coffee producing countries in terms of quantity in both 2016 and 2020.
|
52. Which State ensures the maximum production of Coffee in India?
(a) Maharashtra
(b) Karnataka
(c) Tamil Nadu
(d) Kerala
[47th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2005*]
Ans. (b) Karnataka
- Karnataka state in India has the highest coffee production in the country.
- In 2020-21, it produced 235,500 metric tons, which is 70% of all the coffee produced in India.
- Kerala and Tamil Nadu came in second and third place respectively.
|
53. Among the agricultural commodities imported by India, which one of the following accounts for the highest imports in terms of value in the last five years?
(a) Spices
(b) Fresh fruits
(c) Pulses
(d) Vegetable oils
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (d) Vegetable oils
- For the past five years, vegetable oils have been the most valuable item that India has imported.
- India is one of the biggest buyers of agricultural products globally.
|
54. Which of the following pulses was imported in the largest quantity in 2015-16?
(a) Moong
(b) Lentil
(c) Urad
(d) Pigeon Pea (Tur/Arhar)
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (b) Lentil
- In 2015-16, lentils were imported in the biggest amount.
- However, of all pulses, peas (matar) were imported in the biggest quantity to India.
- The following table shows imports of major pulses to India in thousands of tonnes: peas (matar): 2245.39, chickpeas (chana): 1031.48, moong/urad: 581.60, lentils (masur): 1260.19 and pigeon peas (tur): 462.71. India is the biggest producer and consumer of pulses in the world.
|
55. Which one of the following agricultural products fetches the largest foreign exchange for the country from its export?
(a) Coffee
(b) Rice
(c) Raw cotton
(d) Tea
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (b) Rice
- The Economic Survey 2021-22 shows that the export value (in US$ million) of main agricultural products is as follows: coffee, rice, raw cotton, tea and mate, oil cakes, and spices.
- Rice brings in the most money for the country.
|
56. Which one of the following is the most valuable item in the agricultural export of India?
(a) Oil cakes
(b) Raw cotton
(c) Rice
(d) Spices
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (c)Rice
- Rice is the most important thing India sells to other countries.
- In 2021-22, rice was 19% of all agricultural products India exported.
- Most of India’s Basmati rice gets sent to other countries around the world.
|
57. Niger crops is an oil seed crop. What is the content of oil in its seeds?
(a) 7 – 16%
(b) 17 – 26%
(c) 27 – 36%
(d) 37 – 47%
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (d) 37 – 47%
- Niger is a type of crop mainly grown in areas where there is no irrigation.
- The seed of Niger is eaten by people. It contains 37-47% oil which has a pale yellow colour and a nutty flavour.
- The oil is used for cooking, rubbing on the body, making paints, soaps, lighting and lubrication.
|
58. The leading mulberry silk-producing Indian State is :
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Tamil Nadu
(c) Karnataka
(d) West Bengal
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2017]
Ans. (c) Karnataka
- Karnataka is the top producer of mulberry silk in India, with Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu coming in second, third, and fourth places respectively.
|
59. Consider the following statements :
1. India is the only country in the world producing all the five known commercial varieties of silk.
2. India is the largest producer of sugar in the world.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2005]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- India is the only country in the world that makes all five types of silk.
- It is also the second biggest silk producer after China.
- However, Brazil is the biggest sugar producer in the world, not India, so Statement 2 is wrong.
|
60. The country, which is the largest silk producer in the world, is :
(a) India
(b) China
(c) Brazil
(d) Japan
(e) None of the above / More than one of the above
[64th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) China
- China is the number one producer of silk in the world.
- They produce over 403,000 tonnes of silk each year, which is more than half of all the silk produced globally.
|
61. Which one of the following is the pathway to increase productivity in agriculture?
(a) Efficient irrigation
(b) Quality seeds
(c) Use of pesticides
(d) Use of fertilizers
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[64th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (e) None of the above/More than one of the above
- Using water properly, getting good seeds, using bug sprays and fertilizers are all necessary for farms to get better harvests. So, option (e) is the correct choice.
|
62. Which of the following is not the reason for low productivity in Indian agriculture?
(a) Pressure of the population on the land
(b) Disguised unemployment
(c) Co-operative farming
(d) Small land holdings
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2007, U.P.U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (c) Co-operative farming
- The causes of low productivity in Indian agriculture are largely due to things like too many people, small farms, unreliable rainfall, bad irrigation, farming for survival, soil fertility going down, and a lack of resources. Co-operative farming, however, actually increases productivity.
|
63. The importance of agriculture in Indian economy is indicated by its contribution to which of the following?
(a) National Income and Employment
(b) Industrial Development and International Trade
(c) Supply of Foodgrains
(d) All of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2007]
Ans. (d) All of the above
- India’s economy is still mainly based on agriculture, which makes up 18.8% of the country’s Gross Value Added. It also provides jobs for around half of India’s population.
- The agricultural sector contributes 11.76% to India’s exports.
- In the past few decades, Indian agriculture has grown a lot, with food production increasing from 50.8 million tonnes in 1950-51 to 310.7 million tonnes in 2020-21.
|
64. Which of the following pairs about India’s economic indicator and agricultural production (all in rounded figures) are correctly matched?
1. GDP per capita (current prices) : Rs. 37,000
2. Rice : 180 million tons
3. Wheat : 75 million tons
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 and 3 only
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (d) 1 and 3 only
- In 2007, India’s per capita GDP was around Rs. 37,000, and wheat and rice production were 75.8 million tons and 93.4 million tons respectively.
- Therefore, option (d) was the correct answer. In 2021-22, the per capita GDP and per capita income at current prices were Rs. 172761 and Rs. 149848, and at constant prices were Rs. 107934 and Rs. 91723 respectively.
- The estimated production of wheat and rice in 2021-22 is 111.32 and 127.93 million tonnes, which is higher than the production in 2020-21 (109.59 and 124.37 million tonnes).
|
65. Agriculture income tax in India can be levied by :
(a) State Governments
(b) Central Government
(c) Local Governments
(d) Central and State Government
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]
Ans. (a) State Governments
- The Central Government is not allowed to put taxes on income made from agriculture.
- This is stated in the Income Tax Act, Section 10 (1).
- Taxes on agricultural income are in List II of the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which means it is up to the State Governments to decide if taxes should be put onto agricultural income.
|
66. India’s main agricultural import item is:
(a) Pulses
(b) Coffee
(c) Sugar
(d) Edible oil
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) Edible oil
- India imports the most food-related products out of all agricultural imports, with edible oil making up more than half of that.
- According to the Economic Survey 2021-22, food and related products made up 4.5% of total imports in 2020-21, while edible oil made up 2.8%.
|
67. Preferred variety of Mango for export is :
(a) Dashahri
(b) Langra
(c) Alphonso
(d) Amrapali
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) Alphonso
- Alphonso mangoes are the most popular type for exporting.
- They are mostly grown in Western India, and Maharashtra is the biggest producer.
|
68. What percentage of labour force is provided direct employment by the agriculture sector in India?
(a) 20%
(b) 30%
(c) 40%
(d) 65%
[45th B.P.S.C. (Pre), 2001*]
Ans. (*)
- In 2001, nearly three out of five Indian workers were employed in agriculture.
- By 2011, this decreased to just over half.
|
69. In Uttar Pradesh maximum percentage of workers are engaged in :
(a) Agriculture sector
(b) Industry sector
(c) Service sector
(d) Industry and Service sector
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (a) Agriculture sector
- The 2011 Census showed that the most amount of people in Uttar Pradesh (59.3%) work in agriculture.
|
70. What approximate percentage of India’s labour force at present depends on agriculture for their livelihood?
(a) 50%
(b) 65%
(c) 70%
(d) 75%
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (b) 65%
- According to the 2011 Census, about 55% of the total workforce in the country works in the agriculture sector, which was the closest answer to the question.
|
71. Which of the following is not a cash crop?
(a) Jute
(b) Groundnut
(c) Jowar
(d) Sugarcane
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[60th to 62nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Jowar
- A cash crop is a plant grown to be sold for money, not used for personal consumption.
- Examples of cash crops are jute, groundnut and sugarcane, while jowar is not a cash crop, it is a type of grain used for food.
|
72. The main objective of Vishesh Krishi and Gram Udyog Yojna is :
(a) Promotion of agricultural export
(b) Increasing productivity of cereal crops
(c) Promoting the cultivation of oilseeds
(d) Promotion of pulse cultivation
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Spl.) (Pre) 2010*]
Ans. (a) Promotion of agricultural export
- The goal of VKGUY is to encourage the export of agricultural produce and related products.
- It helps to cover the costs of moving these items from rural areas to ports and airports for exporting, and also helps to reduce any other obstacles that may be in the way.
- These products include agricultural produce and their value-added products, Gram Udyog products, Minor forest products and their value-added versions, forest-based products, and other items designated by the program.
|
73. Kissan Bahi Yojana was started in Uttar Pradesh in :
(a)1970
(b) 1975
(c)1990
(d) 1992
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) 1992
- The Kisan Bahi Yojana began in Uttar Pradesh in 1992.
|
74. Consider the following statements :
1. Accelerated Irrigation Benefits programme was launched during 1996-97 to provide loan assistance to poor farmers.
2. Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974-75 for the development of water-use efficiency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- In 1996-97, the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme was set up to give loan help to states whose big and medium irrigation projects were almost finished.
- The Command Area Development Programme, which was sponsored by the government, started in 1974-75 to make sure the best use of irrigation potential.
|
75. Consider the following statements about Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana and state which one of them is incorrect.
(a) It was launched during 2007-2008
(b) It envisages an outlay of Rs. 25000 crore for the Eleventh Five Year Plan
(c) Additional Central Assistance under the scheme would be available as 80% grant to the States
(d) Activities under the yojana include integrated development of food crops, agriculture mechanisation, development of rainfed farming, etc.
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (c) Additional Central Assistance under the scheme would be available as 80% grant to the States
- The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) was started in August 2007 with a budget of Rs. 25000 crore.
- It was an Additional Central Assistance (ACA) to State plan scheme with 100% central assistance until 2013-14. In 2014-15, the scheme changed to a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with 100% central assistance.
- From 2015-16, the funding was divided between the Centre and States in the ratio of 60:40 (90:10 for Northern Eastern States and Himalayan States).
- Union Territories receive 100% central funding.
- In November 2017, the Union Cabinet approved the continuation of RKVY as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) with a budget of Rs. 15722 crore for 3 years.
|
76. For Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, which of the following funding patterns is correct?
State Centre
(a) 0% 100%
(b) 25% 75%
(c) 50% 50%
(d) 75% 25%
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Spl) (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (a) 0% 100%
- In August 2007, the Indian government launched the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) and allocated Rs 25,000 crore for it in the 11th Five Year Plan. It was initially implemented as an ACA scheme with 100% central assistance until 2014-15.
- In 2015-16, the funding pattern was changed to a 60:40 ratio between the Centre and the States (90:10 for North-Eastern states and Himalayan states) and 100% central grant for Union Territories.
- The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the RKVY in 2017-18 as RKVY-RAFTAAR with a financial allocation of Rs 15,722 crore.
|
77. Which is not included in ‘National Agricultural Development Yojna’?
(a) Soil Test Lab
(b) Fertilizer’s Quality Control Lab
(c) Agricultural Tools Test Lab
(d) Agricultural Engineering
(e) None of these
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (e) None of these
- RKVY was started in 2007 as a way to help the growth of agriculture and related areas.
- It includes things like soil testing labs, fertilizer quality control labs, agricultural tool testing labs, and agricultural engineering.
- Option (e) is the correct answer.
|
78. P. Sengupta and G. Sdasyuk (1968) had divided India into how many micro agricultural regions?
(a) 58
(b) 63
(c) 60
(d) 65
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2017]
Ans. (c) 60
- P. Sengupta and G. Sdasyuk (1968) divided India’s agricultural regions into three tiers: (a) 4 macro regions based on climate; (b) 11 meso (or mega) regions based on physical features; (c) 60 micro regions based on crop combinations.
|
79. For the 8th Plan, India was divided into how many agro-climatic zones by the Planning Commission?
(a) 10
(b) 15
(c) 20
(d) 25
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1999, 2000]
Ans. (b) 15
- To help plan farming activities more precisely according to the soil, temperature, rain, and other weather-related factors, the Planning Commission of India divided the country into 15 agroclimatic zones in 1988 for the 8th Five Year Plan.
|
80. National Horticulture Mission was launched in which of the following Five Year Plans ?
(a) Eleventh Five Year Plan
(b) Tenth Five Year Plan
(c) Ninth Five Year Plan
(d) None of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]
Ans. (b) Ninth Five Year Plan
- NHM is a program funded by the government that started in 2005.
- It is part of MIDH, which is now being used in 18 states and 5 union territories.
- MIDH was introduced in 2015.
|
81. When was the National Horticulture Mission started?
(a) May, 2004
(b) May, 2006
(c) May, 2007
(d) May, 2005
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (d) May, 2005
- The National Horticulture Mission (NHM) is a program backed by the federal government which began in 2005 during the 10th Five Year Plan.
- It is now a part of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) which is being put into action by the State Horticulture Missions (SHM) in 18 states and 5 Union Territories.
- MIDH started in 2014-15 during the 12th Five Year Plan.
|
82. Which of the following States is covered under the National Horticulture Mission (NHM) ?
(a) Jammu and Kashmir
(b) Arunachal Pradesh
(c) Uttar Pradesh
(d) Himachal Pradesh
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (c) Uttar Pradesh
- Since 2005-06, National Horticulture Mission has been active in 18 States and 5 Union Territories (UTs).
- North Eastern and Himalayan States and UTs have a special mission (HMNEH) for them, so option (c) is correct.
|
83. Which one of the followings is not the objectives of ‘National Horticulture Mission’?
(a) Providing financial assistance
(b) Achieving higher growth in horticulture
(c) Post-harvest management
(d) Human Resource Development
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Spl.) (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (a) Providing financial assistance
- The goals of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) are to increase growth in the horticulture industry, improve post-harvest handling, and develop personnel.
- Financial support is not a part of this plan.
|
84. Krishi Shramik Samajik Suraksha Yojna provides –
(a) More quality life on village level
(b) Additional labour employment
(c) Benefits of pension and insurance
(d) Aided housing facilities
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (c) Benefits of pension and insurance
- On July 1, 2001, the Krishi Shramik Samajik Suraksha Yojna was started.
- The purpose of this plan was to give comprehensive life insurance, periodic payments, and pensions to those who work in agriculture.
|
85. ‘Small Farmers Development Programme’ was started in the year :
(a) 1947
(b) 1967
(c) 1980
(d) 1961
[U.P. P.C.S. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (*)
- In 1971, the Small Farmer Development Agency (SFDA) program began with the goal of helping small and marginal farmers and agricultural workers increase their incomes.
|
86. Which of the followings is not true for National Food Security Act?
(a) It provides legal entitlement to 67 percent of population at subsidised food
(b) It covers 75 percent of rural population and 50 percent of urban population
(c) It has only two schedules which prescribes for issue of price and nutritional standards of food
(d) All of the above
[J.P.S.C. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) It has only two schedules which prescribes for issue of price and nutritional standards of food
- The National Food Security Act gives two thirds of the population the right to get food at a cheaper price.
- It covers 75% of people living in rural areas and 50% of people living in urban areas.
- It has four parts: the first sets out the cheaper prices, the second sets out nutritional standards, the third sets out how food security can be improved, and the fourth sets out the amount of food to be given to each state.
|
87. With reference to the National Food Security Act, which of the following statements is/are correct?
I. It will cover upto 75 percent rural and 50 percent urban population.
II. Special focus on nutritional support to women and children.
III. Eldest woman of above 18 years age will be head of household.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below :
(a) I and II are correct
(b) II and III are correct
(c) I, II and III are correct
(d) None of these
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (c) I, II and III are correct
- The National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013 changed the way we think about food security, from a welfare-based approach to one that’s based on rights.
- With this Act, 2/3 of the population is able to receive subsidized food.
- Eligible households can get up to 5 kilograms of food per person per month, each at different prices. The poorest households will still get 35 kilograms of food per month.
- The oldest woman in a household, 18 or over, will be the head for the ration card.
- This Act also pays special attention to the nutrition of women and children.
|
88. With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013, consider the following statements :
1. The families coming under the category of ‘below poverty line (BPL)’ only are eligible to receive subsidized foodgrains.
2. The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
3. Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a ‘take-home ration’ of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- The National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013 says that 75% of people living in rural areas and 50% of people living in urban areas can get subsidized food.
- Non-BPL households can also benefit.
- The eldest woman in the household who is 18 years or above will be the head of the household for the ration card.
- Pregnant women and lactating mothers will get 600 kcal and 18-20 grams of protein per day during pregnancy and six months after the child birth.
- They will also get a maternity benefit of at least Rs. 6,000.
|
89. Consider the following statements :
1. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
2. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of Director General of Health Services in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (a) 1 only
- The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 brought together various laws and regulations from different ministries and departments that previously dealt with food-related matters.
- A number of central acts and orders, such as the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, the Fruit Products Order, 1955, the Meat Food Products Order, 1973, and the Vegetable Oil Products (Control) Order, 1947 were removed when the FSS Act was established in 2006.
- Statement 1 is correct, but statement 2 is not because the Chairperson of FSSAI is appointed by the Government of India, and they have their own independent leader who has the same rank as the Secretary of the Government of India.
- It is not under the Director General of Health Services.
|
90. Which of the followings is not an objective of National Food Security Mission (NFSM)?
(a) Distribution of high yeilding variety seeds
(b) Demonstration of improved production technology
(c) Strengthening credit facilities
(d) Popularising newly released variety of crops
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Strengthening credit facilities
- In October 2007, the government set up the National Food Security Mission (NFSM).
- Its goals are to increase the production of rice, wheat, pulses, and coarse grains in certain districts, make sure soil fertility is restored on individual farms, and make sure farmers make a good profit.
- This mission will give out high-yielding variety seeds, show farmers how to use better production techniques, and promote newly released varieties of crops.
- The mission does not include working to strengthen credit facilities.
|
91. Which of the following crops is not covered under the National Food Security Mission ?
(a) Pulses
(b) Rice
(c) Wheat
(d) Coarse Cereals
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (*)
- In 2007, the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched as a government-funded program to increase the production of rice, wheat, and pulses by 20 million tons by the end of the 11th Plan (2011-12). Later, coarse cereals were added to NFSM in 2014-15.
- During the 12th Plan, the NFSM had new targets of 25 million tons of extra foodgrains production.
- This included 10 million tons of rice, 8 million tons of wheat, 4 million tons of pulses and 3 million tons of coarse cereals.
- The NFSM also included commercial crops, such as cotton, jute, and sugarcane.
- The NFSM was extended beyond the 12th Plan (2017-18 to 2019-20) with new goals to produce an extra 13 million tons of foodgrains, including 5 million tons of rice, 3 million tons of wheat, 3 million tons of pulses, and 2 million tons of nutri-cum-coarse cereals by 2019-20.
- From 2018-19 and 2019-20, NFSM includes National Mission on Oilseeds and Oilpalm (NMOOP) and Seed Village Program, making NFSM have 8 components.
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92. The National Food Security Mission in India has become effective with effect from :
(a) Rabi Season 2007-08
(b) Kharif Season 2007-08
(c) Rabi Season 2005-06
(d) Kharif Season 2006-07
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (a) Rabi Season 2007-08
- The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was set up in 2007 to increase the amount of rice, wheat, and pulses produced every year. Coarse cereals were added to the mission in 2014.
- During the 12th Five Year Plan, the goal was to increase foodgrain production by 25 million tons.
- This included 10 million tons of rice, 8 million tons of wheat, 4 million tons of pulses, and 3 million tons of coarse cereals. Cotton, jute, and sugarcane were also included in the NFSM.
- The mission has been extended beyond the 12th Plan, with the goal of producing an additional 13 million tons of foodgrains, including 5 million tons of rice, 3 million tons of wheat, 3 million tons of pulses, and 2 million tons of nutri-cum-coarse cereals by 2019-20.
- NFSM now includes 8 components: rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals, nutri-cereals, commercial crops, oilseeds and oilpalm, and the seed village program.
|
93. Which of the following crops are covered under the National Food Security Mission ?
(a) Wheat, Rice and Bajra
(b) Rice, Sugarcane and Maize
(c) Wheat and Coarse Cereals
(d) Wheat, Rice and Pulses
(e) Wheat, Maize and Jowar
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (*)
- In 2007, the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was started to increase food production by 20 million tons by 2012.
- From 2014-15, coarse cereals were also included.
- During the 12th Plan, the targets were increased to 25 million tons of foodgrains comprising of 10 million tons of rice, 8 million tons of wheat, 4 million tons of pulses and 3 million tons of coarse cereals. NFSM is continuing beyond the 12th Plan with new targets of 13 million tons of foodgrains.
- This includes 5 million tons of rice, 3 million tons of wheat, 3 million tons of pulses and 2 million tons of nutri-cum-coarse cereals. From 2018-19 and 2019-20, NFSM includes 8 components: NFSM-Rice, NFSM-Wheat, NFSM-Pulses, NFSM-Coarse Cereals, NFSM-Sub Mission on Nutri-Cereals, NFSM-Commercial crops, NFSM-Oilseeds and Oilpalm, and NFSM-Seed Village Programme.
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94. Which one of the following crops is not included in the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) ?
(a) Wheat
(b) Pulses
(c) Rice
(d) Course Cereals
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (*)
- In 2007, the National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched by the government in order to increase food production. This plan was meant to add 20 million tons of foodgrains (rice, wheat, and pulses) by the end of the 11th Plan in 2012. In 2014, coarse cereals were added to NFSM, and during the 12th Plan, the new target was to produce 25 million tons of foodgrains (rice, wheat, pulses, and coarse cereals) by the end of the 12th Plan in 2017. The NFSM is continuing beyond the 12th Plan through 2019-20, with a new aim to produce 13 million tons of foodgrains (rice, wheat, pulses, and nutri-cum-coarse cereals). As of 2018-19 and 2019-20, the NFSM also includes the National Mission on Oilseeds and Oilpalm (NMOOP) and Seed Village Programme, making eight components of the NFSM.
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95. Which one of the following is not included in the National Food Security Mission?
(a) Wheat
(b) Oilseeds
(c) Rice
(d) Pulses
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008, U.P.P.C.S (Pre) 2010, U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam.) 2015, 56th to 59th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (b) Oilseeds
- The National Food Security Mission was started in 2007, with the goal of increasing the amount of oilseeds, rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals, and commercial crops produced.
- This is done by increasing the size of the areas used to grow these crops and improving productivity.
|
96. Under which law, the State Food Commission is established?
(a) National Food Security Act, 2013
(b) National Food Security Act, 2019
(c) National Food Security Act, 2020
(d) None of the above
[M.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (a) National Food Security Act, 2013
- The National Food Security Act of 2013 includes a Section 16 that requires each State Government to make a State Food Commission.
- This Commission will have one Chairperson, five other members, and a Member-Secretary, as well as their staff.
- Two or more States may join together to make one State Food Commission, but it must be approved by the Central Government.
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97. Which of the following is not correctly matched?
Animal Breed
(a) Buffalo – Bhadawari
(b) Cow – Sindhi
(c) Goat – Jamunapari
(d) Sheep – Tharparkar
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (d) Sheep – Tharparkar
- Bhadawari is a type of buffalo mainly found in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Sindhi (Red Sindhi) is a type of cow that comes from Pakistan’s Sindh province, and can be found in Punjab, Haryana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Odisha. Jamunapari is a goat breed from Uttar Pradesh, and Tharparkar is a type of cow found in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
- Therefore, option (d) is incorrect.
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98. The most important fish industry in India is :
(a) at deep water
(b) at above sea-coast
(c) at cultural inland
(d) at natural inland
[40th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (d) at natural inland
- Currently, the biggest fish industry in India is in inland areas.
- These areas have lots of types of resources, such as rivers, floodplains, estuaries, mangroves, estuarine, impoundments, lagoons, lakes, reservoirs and ponds.
- According to the ‘Handbook on Fisheries Statistics : 2020’ released by the Department of Fisheries, Government of India in November 2020, the amount of marine and inland fish production in India between 2015-16 and 2019-20 has been increasing.
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99. Which of the following countries is the largest producer of fish in the world?
(a) Japan
(b) China
(c) Russia
(d) USA
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (b) China
- According to the FAO’s ‘State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2020’, China is the number one producer of both capture fisheries and aquaculture.
- In 2018, China produced 62.2 million tonnes of fish, with 47.6 million tonnes from aquaculture and 14.6 million tonnes from capture fisheries.
- That’s 58 percent of total aquaculture, 15 percent of capture fisheries, and 35 percent of total fish production. China has been the biggest exporter of fish and fish products since 2002.
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100. The ‘blue revolution’ is related with :
(a) foodgrain production
(b) oilseed production
(c) milk production
(d) fish production
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (d) fish production
- The Blue Revolution is about increasing fish production, also known as Pisciculture.
- The Indian government created the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) on September 9, 2006 as an independent organization to help make this revolution happen.
- It is based in Hyderabad.
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101. Among the following which one is related to the Blue Revolution in India?
(a) Horticulture
(b) Floriculture
(c) Pisciculture
(d) Sericulture
(e) None of the above
[Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Pisciculture
- The Indian Government set up the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) on September 9, 2006 with the goal of increasing fish production (Pisciculture) in the country, which is known as the Blue Revolution.
- It is based in Hyderabad.
|
102. Black revolution is related to the :
(a) Fish production
(b) Coal production
(c) Crude oil production
(d) Mustard production
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[60th to 62nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Crude oil production
- Crude oil is a dark-colored substance, also called “Black Gold”. To increase production of crude oil, the term “Black Revolution” was created. Other revolutions include Blue Revolution for fish production, White Revolution for dairy farming, Red Revolution for meat or tomato production, Green Revolution for foodgrain production, and Yellow Revolution for oilseeds production.
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103. Yellow Revolution is concerned with the production of
(a) Food grains
(b) Fish
(c) Oilseeds
(d) Milk
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2007*]
Ans. (c) Oilseeds
- The yellow revolution is about oilseed production.
- This revolution started in 1986 when the Indian Council of Agricultural Research began the Technology Mission on Oilseeds.
- The growth rate of different oilseeds has increased from 25% to 420%.
- During the 2020-21 period (4th AE), the production of nine oilseeds is estimated to be 36.1 million tonnes, up from 33.2 million tonnes in 2019-20.
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104. ‘Yellow Revolution’ is related to:
(a) Floriculture
(b) Fish culture
(c) Rapeseed-mustard production
(d) Wheat production
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) Rapeseed-mustard production
- The Yellow Revolution was a campaign in India that was focused on growing more edible oilseeds to help the country become self-sufficient with its own supply.
- It began in 1986–1987.
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105. The Father of the Green Revolution in the World is :
(a) Norman E. Borlaug
(b) M.S. Swaminathan
(c) G.S. Khush
(d) B.P. Pal
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) Norman E. Borlaug
- Norman E. Borlaug, an American agronomist, is known as the “Father of Green Revolution”.
- He was given the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1970.
- The Green Revolution he sparked significantly increased agricultural production around the world, particularly in poorer countries, beginning in the late 1960s.
- In India, Dr. M.S. Swaminathan is widely recognized as the pioneer of the green revolution.
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106. Indian Green Revolution started from :
(a) Pantnagar
(b) Bengaluru
(c) Kanpur
(d) Delhi
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (a) Pantnagar
- The start of green revolution in India is thought to be 1966. Pantnagar University of Agriculture played a major role in bringing green revolution to India.
- This university is also referred to as the origin of green revolution in India.
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107. Who was the person not associated with the green revolution when its started in India?
(a) M.S. Swaminathan
(b) C. Subramaniam
(c) Indira Gandhi
(d) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (d) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
- Dr. M.S. Swaminathan is known as the father of the green revolution in India.
- The Prime Minister at the time, Indira Gandhi, and the Union Agriculture Minister, C. Subramaniam, both had a big part to play.
- Rafi Ahmed Kidwai was not involved in the green revolution.
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108. Which one of the following most appropriately describes the nature of Green Revolution of late sixties of 20th century?
(a) Intensive cultivation of green vegetables
(b) Intensive agriculture district programme
(c) High-yielding varieties programme
(d) Seed-fertilizer-Water technology
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[64th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (d) Seed-fertilizer-Water technology
- The Green Revolution in India in the late 1960s was a process that used Seed-Fertilizer-Water technology.
- This included using specific seeds, fertilizers, water for irrigation, machinery, and pesticides.
- This changed India from being a country that struggled to produce enough food to being a world-leading agricultural nation.
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109. The reason for increase in price of foodgrains distributed through public distribution system is to :
(a) Allow farmers to receive remunerative prices
(b) To control the consumption of foodgrains
(c) Lesson the burden of subsidy involved in the scheme
(d) Earn profit out of scheme
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (c) Lesson the burden of subsidy involved in the scheme
- The government gives food at lower prices to those in need through the Public Distribution System (PDS).
- The lower prices are subsidized by the government, meaning the government pays some of the cost.
- If the government raises the prices, the subsidies they pay will go down.
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110. Operation Flood is related to which of the following –
(a) Flood control
(b) Milk production
(c) Fish production
(d) Arrangement of drinking water
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1992, U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1992*]
Ans. (b) Milk production
- In 1970, Operation Flood was started to help increase the production of milk and start a ‘white revolution’ in India.
- It was a big project created by India’s National Dairy Development Board and it was successful in making India the world’s biggest milk producer.
- Dr. Verghese Kurien is known as the leader of the ‘white revolution’ in India.
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111. Self-sufficiency in food, in the true sense of freedom from hunger, has not been achieved in India inspite of a more than three-fold rise in foodgrains production over 1950- 1990. Which of the following are the reasons for it?
1. The Green Revolution has been restricted to small pockets of the country.
2. The cost of food is too high compared to the earnings of the poor.
3. Too much emphasis is laid on wheat and paddy compared to the coarse grains.
4. The gains of the green revolution have largely accrued to the cash crop rather than food crops.
Select the correct answer from the codes given below –
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (a) 1, 2 and 3
- People have argued that the green revolution only helped certain parts of the country and wealthier farmers, and it focused mainly on increasing the production of wheat, rice, and other cash crops, not coarse cereals.
- Prices of food have been rising, and this is partly due to the Minimum Support Prices system.
- However, the incomes of poorer people have not increased as much, so even though foodgrain production has gone up by more than three times since 1950, India has not achieved food self-sufficiency.
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112. Which States of India have derived maximum benefits from green revolution?
(a) Bihar, West Bengal and Assam
(b) Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra
(c) Punjab, Haryana & Western U.P.
(d) Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (c) Punjab, Haryana & Western U.P.
- The Green Revolution in India began with the Kharif crop in 1966, and states such as Punjab, Haryana, and the western part of Uttar Pradesh, which had good infrastructure such as irrigation, were able to get the most out of it.
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113. The Second Green Revolution proposed by the Prime Minister does not include :
(a) helping Indian farmers to participate in global agricultural trade
(b) minimize post harvest wastage
(c) improve storage of crops
(d) encourage foreign direct investment in agriculture
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (d) encourage foreign direct investment in agriculture
- The Prime Minister’s Second Green Revolution does not involve inviting foreign investment in farming.
- The other three options are part of this initiative.
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114. Which one of the following agriculture practices is eco-friendly?
(a) Cultivation of high yielding varieties
(b) Growing plants in glass houses
(c) Shifting cultivation
(d) Organic farming
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (d) Organic farming
- Organic farming is a type of agriculture that uses natural fertilizers such as compost, green manure, and bone meal, and relies on techniques like crop rotation and planting together different plants.
- It does not use any synthetic chemicals or pesticides.
- Compared to regular farming, organic farming helps stop soil erosion, reduces nitrates getting into water, and recycles animal waste for use on the farm.
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115. With reference to ‘Initiative for Nutritional Security through Intensive Millets Promotion’ which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. This initiative aims to demonstrate the improved production and post-harvest technologies, and to demonstrate value addition techniques, in an integrated manner, with cluster approach.
2. Poor, small, marginal and tribal farmers have larger stake in this scheme.
3. An important objective of the scheme is to encourage farmers of commercial crops to shift to millet cultivation by offering them free kits of critical inputs of nutrients and micro irrigation equipment.
Select the correct answer using the code given below–
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) 1 and 2 only
- INSIMP, which was launched in 2011-12, is a scheme under RKVY that wants to show farmers how to produce and store millets better, so that more of it can be grown.
- Farmers will get free tools and supplies for millet farming, up to 2 hectares.
- This scheme is especially helpful for small, poor, and tribal farmers.
- It does not provide micro-irrigation equipment or suggest switching from commercial crops.
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116. National Agriculture Technology Project (NATP) is funded in India by :
(a) Food and Agriculture Organization
(b) World Bank
(c) Asian Development Bank
(d) United Nations Development Programme
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2002]
Ans. (b) World Bank
- In 1998, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Union Ministry of Agriculture, with the help of the World Bank, started the National Agriculture Technology Project (NATP).
- This project was made to increase the resources available and to produce more results from the national agricultural research system.
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117. With reference to ‘Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana’, consider the following statements :
1. Under this scheme, farmers will have to pay a uniform premium of two percent for any crop they cultivate in any season of the year.
2. This scheme covers post-harvest losses arising out of the cyclones and unseasonal rains.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) was started on 13th January 2016 to replace the existing National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS).
- Its main goals are to provide financial support to farmers whose crops fail due to natural disasters, pests, or diseases, to help farmers to stay in farming, to encourage them to use modern farming techniques, and to make sure credit gets to the farming sector.
- Crop yields for food, oilseed, and commercial/horticultural crops are covered, with farmers paying premiums of 2% for Kharif crops, 1.5% for Rabi crops, and 5% for annual commercial and horticultural crops.
- The government has recently updated the PMFBY to make it more effective from the 2020 Kharif season.
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118. Crop Insurance Scheme in India was started in :
(a) 1945
(b) 1980
(c) 1985
(d) 1988
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) 1985
- The Indian government began its first crop insurance program, called the Comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme (CCIS), on April 1, 1985 during the Kharif season.
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119. National Agricultural Insurance Scheme replacing A comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme was introduced in the year:
(a) 1997
(b) 1998
(c) 1999
(d) 2000
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (c) 1999
- In 1999, a new National Agricultural Insurance Scheme was put in place to replace the old Comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme.
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120. National Agricultural Insurance Scheme was launched in the year :
(a) 1995-96
(b) 1998-99
(c) 1999-2000
(d) 2001-02
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2016, U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2003]
Ans. (c) 1999-2000
- The Indian Ministry of Agriculture launched a new National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) for the 1999-2000 season, replacing the Comprehensive Crop Insurance Scheme.
- This was done to provide financial help to farmers who have suffered from natural disasters, diseases or pests.
- In 2004-05, the scheme was extended to cover Kharif crops as well. In 2013-14, a National Crop Insurance Programme (NCIP) was developed that included NAIS, Pilot Modified NAIS, Pilot Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme and Pilot Coconut Palm Insurance Scheme.
- Finally, in 2016, a new Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (PMFBY) replaced NAIS and modified NAIS, while the WBCIS was modified to match the PMFBY.
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121. In which financial year, the Union Budget proposed to extend the National Agriculture Insurance Scheme to Kharif crop as well ?
(a) 2005-06
(b) 2004-05
(c) 2003-04
(d) 2002-03
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004, 2005]
Ans. (b) 2004-05
- The Union Ministry of Agriculture created the National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) in 1999.
- It was a way to help farmers financially if their crops were destroyed by natural disasters, pests, or diseases.
- In 2004, the scheme was expanded to cover Kharif crops.
- A new scheme, the National Crop Insurance Programme (NCIP), was created in 2013 to replace NAIS and other related schemes.
- In 2016, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna (PMFBY) was introduced as an umbrella scheme that improved upon all previous schemes.
- PMFBY replaced NAIS and modified NAIS, and the Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS) was modified to match PMFBY.
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122. Weather Based Crop Insurance scheme was first implemented in :
(a) Haryana
(b) Karnataka
(c) Punjab
(d) Tamil Nadu
[U.P.U.D.A./ L.D.A. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (b) Karnataka
- The Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS) was first used in Karnataka in 2007 and then spread to 10 other states.
- This scheme is intended to help farmers if their crops are damaged due to bad weather like rainfall, temperature, wind, and humidity.
- The Agriculture Insurance Company of India (AIC) is responsible for implementing the scheme.
- In 2016 and 2017, it was implemented in 12 and 9 states, respectively.
- Now, AIC and other insurance companies appointed by the agriculture ministry are in charge of implementing the Restructured WBCIS.
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123. Consider the following Statements :
1. Varsha Bima, the rainfall insurance scheme, is managed by the Agriculture Insurance Company of India Ltd. (AICIL).
2. The scheme was introduced during the 2007 South West monsoon period.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[56th to 59th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) Only 1
- The Agriculture Insurance Company of India Ltd. (AICIL) launched ‘Varsha Bima’, a rainfall insurance scheme, in 2004 for parts of India such as Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. Later, Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme (WBCIS) was also launched by AICIL in 2007.
- Currently, both AICIL and other public and private sector general insurance companies, selected by the State/UT Government, are responsible for implementing the restructured WBCIS.
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124. Crop Insurance is under the monopoly of :
(a) National Insurance Company
(b) Life Insurance Company
(c) General Insurance Company
(d) NABARD
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (*)
- Agriculture Insurance Company of India (AIC) had control over crop insurance until 2002-03, when it was managed by the General Insurance Corporation of India.
- Now, both AIC and other public and private sector general insurance companies chosen by the Ministry of Agriculture and the State/UT Government are responsible for implementing the Government-supported agriculture and crop insurance plans.
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125. Consider the following statements:
1. The Crop Insurance Scheme in India was started in the year 1985.
2. The total number of agro-climatic zones in U.P. is 9.
3. Food for Work Programme was started in the year 1977.
4. Blue Revolution is concerned with the production of mustard.
Codes :
(a) only 1 and 2 are correct
(b) only 2 and 3 are correct
(c) only 3 and 4 are correct
(d) only 1, 2 and 3 are correct
[U.P.P.C.S (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (d) only 1, 2 and 3 are correct
- The blue revolution has to do with fish farming and not growing mustard.
- All other facts are accurate.
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126. Hariyali Yojana is related to :
(a) Crop Management
(b) Soil Management
(c) Water Management
(d) Forest Management
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (c) Water Management
- In 2003, the Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee started the Hariyali scheme which had an expenditure of 2000 crore.
- The purpose of this scheme was to collect water for use, to provide drinking water, to give access to irrigation and to encourage tree planting.
- This project is overseen by the Ministry of Rural Development and is being implemented in 2.32 lakh villages across the country.
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127. ‘Vishesh Krishi Upaj Yojana’ is related to :
(a) Production of pulses and oilseeds
(b) Increase in production of cash crops
(c) Thrust in export of agricultural products
(d) Increasing productivity of crops in drought prone areas
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (c) Thrust in export of agricultural products
- The ‘Vishesh Krishi Upaj Yojna’ is designed to increase the export of agricultural products.
- This scheme encourages the export of fruits, vegetables, flowers, minor forest produce, dairy, poultry and their value added products, produced and processed in India.
- Exporters of these products will receive a duty credit scrip worth 5% of the FOB value of their exports for each licensing year.
- This scheme was announced in the Export-Import Policy 2004-09.
|
128. ‘Rashtriya Vishesh Krishi Upaj Yojna’ is mainly concerned with :
(a) Cash crops
(b) Cereals
(c) Vegetables
(d) Exportable agricultural produce
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]
Ans. (d) Exportable agricultural produce
- The ‘Vishesh Krishi Upaj Yojna’ is a plan to help increase exports of agricultural goods.
- It is designed to help exporters of products like fruits, vegetables, flowers, minor forest produce, dairy, poultry and their value-added products.
- Exporters will receive a reward in the form of a duty credit scrip equal to 5% of the FOB value of exports for every licensing year.
- This scheme was announced in the Export-Import Policy for 2004-2009.
|
129. The objective of the PM-KUSUM Scheme is:
(a) to reduce farmers’ dependence on monsoon for irrigation
(b) to reduce farmers’ dependence on money-lenders for credit
(c) promotion of floriculture in India
(d) to remove farmers’ dependence on diesel and kerosene and to link pump sets to solar energy
(e) None of the above / More than one of the above
[66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (d) to remove farmers’ dependence on diesel and kerosene and to link pump sets to solar energy
- The PM-KUSUM Scheme was introduced in 2019 with the aim of providing energy security to farmers in India and fulfill India’s commitment to increasing the share of power from non-fossil fuels.
- Its main purpose is to reduce the need for diesel and kerosene and link agricultural pump sets to solar energy.
|
130. In which of the following years National Land Records Modernization Programme (NLRMP) was launched?
(a) 2008
(b) 2009
(c) 2010
(d) 2011
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (a) 2008
- The Indian Government began the National Land Records Modernization Programme in 2008 to make land records digital and up-to-date.
- It’s now called the Digital India Land Record Modernization Programme.
|
131. Rainfed Area Development Programme (RADP) was launched by the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Government of India in the year :
(a) 2008-09
(b) 2009-10
(c) 2010-11
(d) 2011-12
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2015]
Ans. (d) 2011-12
- In 2011-12, a new program called Rainfed Area Development Programme (RADP) was started as part of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) in order to help agriculture grow in the rainfed areas.
- Its goal is to improve the lives of farmers, especially small and marginal farmers, by giving them a package of activities to make their farming more profitable.
|
132. Handbook of Agriculture is published by:
(a) I.A.R.I.
(b) I.C.A.R.
(c) U.P.C.A.R.
(d) I.C.S.I.R.
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (b) I.C.A.R.
- The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) publishes a book about farming called the Handbook of Agriculture.
|
133. U.P. Council of Agricultural Research is located at –
(a) Kanpur
(b) Gaziabad
(c) Allahabad
(d) Lucknow
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (d)Lucknow
- The Uttar Pradesh Council of Agriculture Research is based in Lucknow, and it was created in 1989.
|
134. NAFED is mainly connected with :
(a) Animal husbandry
(b) Conservation of fuels
(c) Agricultural marketing
(d) Agricultural implements
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (c) Agricultural marketing
- NAFED is an organization which works to help farmers by promoting the marketing and trading of agricultural produce. It was established in 1958 with the goal of organizing, promoting, and developing the processing, storage, and distribution of agricultural and forest goods.
- It also helps with the import and export of goods between states, as well as the retail and wholesale of items. NAFED’s main focus is on cooperative marketing of agricultural products to benefit the farmers.
|
135. The apex organization for marketing cooperatives at the national level is :
(a) FCI
(b) NAFED
(c) National Cooperative Union
(d) National Agricultural Marketing Board
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2007]
Ans. (b) NAFED
- NAFED is a government organization that helps farmers in India with marketing and trading of agricultural and other commodities.
- It was formed on October 2, 1958 and its main purpose is to support cooperative marketing of farm produce to benefit farmers.
- It also deals with things like processing, storage, distribution of agricultural machinery, and import and export trading.
|
136. Which of the following agencies is not engaged in exporting agricultural goods from India?
(a) NAFED
(b) State Trading Corporation
(c) IFFCO
(d) MMTC
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (c) IFFCO
- NAFED, State Trading Corporation and MMTC all export agricultural products from India.
- IFFCO makes and sells fertilizers in India, and also does import-export.
|
137. In India markets in agricultural products are regulated under the :
(a) Essential Commodities Act, 1955
(b) The Agricultural Produce Market Committee Act enacted by States
(c) Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937
(d) Food Products Order, 1956 and Meat and Food Products Order, 1973
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (b) The Agricultural Produce Market Committee Act enacted by States
- In India, most states have passed laws that set up and control markets for agricultural products, called the Agricultural Product Marketing Committee Acts.
|
138. Golden rice has been made richer in –
(a) Vitamin A
(b) Vitamin B
(c) Vitamin D
(d) Vitamin E
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (a) Vitamin A
- Golden rice is a kind of rice that has been genetically modified to make beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A when eaten.
- This type of rice is meant to be grown and eaten in areas where there is not enough vitamin A in the diet.
|
139. The demand of agricultural products is found to be :
(a) Elastic
(b) Zero elastic
(c) Inelastic
(d) Infinite elastic
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (c) Inelastic
- People have a limit to how much of agricultural products they can consume, so even if the price goes down, they won’t buy more.
- This is a problem for farmers, because when the price goes down, the extra items they sell don’t make up for the money they lose due to the lower price.
|
140. First Agricultural University in India was established at :
(a) Pantnagar
(b) Ludhiana
(c) Jabalpur
(d) Kanpur
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (a)Pantnagar
- G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology is the first agricultural university in India and is situated in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand.
- It opened in 1960 as ‘Uttar Pradesh Agricultural University’ and was renamed in 1972 to its current name.
|
141. Consider the following Technological Projects of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and arrange them in chronological order according to their year of starting.
I. National Agricultural Innovation Project
II. Krishi Vigyan Kendra
III. National Agricultural Technology Project
IV. Lab to Land Programme
Select the correct answer from the code given below :
Code :
(a) II, IV, III, I
(b) IV, III, I, II
(c) I, II, IV, III
(d) III, I, II, IV
[U.P. R.O. / A.R.O. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (a) II, IV, III, I
| The correct chronological order of the given technological projects of ICAR is as follows : |
| II. Krishi Vigyan Kendra |
1974 |
| IV. Lab to Land Programme |
1979 |
| III. National Agricultural Technology Project |
1998 |
| I. National Agricultural Innovation Project |
2006 |
|
142. Indian Institute of Vegetable Research is located at –
(a) Varanasi
(b) Lucknow
(c) Mysore
(d) Bengaluru
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) Varanasi
- The Indian Institute of Vegetable Research is based in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
|
143. Central Food Technological Research Institute is located at :
(a) Bangalore
(b) Mysore
(c) Chennai
(d) Hyderabad
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (b)Mysore
- The Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) is based in Mysore, Karnataka and was set up in 1950.
|
Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) is located in Mysore, Karnataka. It was established in 1950.
144. The National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM) is located at :
(a) New Delhi
(b) Hyderabad
(c) Nagpur
(d) Nainital
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (b) Hyderabad
- The National Academy of Agricultural Research Management is located in Hyderabad, Telangana.
- It was set up in 1976.
|
145. Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute is located at :
(a) Bahraich
(b) Ranchi
(c) Jhansi
(d) Patna
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) Jhansi
- The Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute is situated in Jhansi, U.P. and was created in 1962.
|
146. The Headquarters of the International Potato Centre (CIP) is situated in :
(a) Lima, Peru
(b) Shimla, India
(c) Dakar, Senegal
(d) Dublin, Ireland
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (a) Lima, Peru
- The International Potato Centre (CIP) was created in 1971 to do research to help people develop and improve the potato, sweet-potato and andean roots and tubers.
- It works to make sure people can get nutritious food, help businesses and employees grow, and make sure the food systems related to root and tuber crops can survive climate change.
- It is based in Lima, Peru.
|
147. Which of the following States ‘Neeru-Meeru water harvesting programme was launched in 2000?
(a) Tamil Nadu
(b) Maharashtra
(c) Andhra Pradesh
(d) Madhya Pradesh
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (c) Andhra Pradesh
- In 2000, the Neeru-Meeru (water and you) water-harvesting initiative was launched in Andhra Pradesh.
|
148. Consider the following statements:
1. The Union Government fixes the Statutory Minimum Price of sugarcane for each sugar season.
2. Sugar and sugarcane are essential commodities under the Essential Commodities Act.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- The Indian government no longer sets a minimum price for sugarcane, but instead determines what is known as the “Fair and Remunerative Price”.
- On October 22, 2009 they issued an amendment to the Sugarcane Control Order of 1966, which changed the minimum price to the “Fair and Remunerative Price” for the 2009-2010 and all future sugar seasons.
- Sugar and sugarcane are both considered essential commodities under the Essential Commodities Act of 1955, so the second statement is correct.
|
149. Which of the following organizations approves the Fair and Remunerative Price (F.R.P.) of the sugarcane?
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
(b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
(c) Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture
(d) Agricultural Produce Market Committee
[U.P.B.E.O. (Pre) 2019, I.A.S. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
- The CCEA agrees to the price of sugarcane based on the CACP’s suggestions, with the help of the State Governments and feedback from sugar industry associations.
|
150. The economic cost of foodgrains to the Food Corporation of India is Minimum Support Price and bonus (if any) paid to the farmers plus
(a) transportation cost only
(b) interest cost only
(c) procurement incidentals and distribution cost
(d) procurement incidentals and charges for godowns
[I.A.S. (Pre.) 2019]
Ans. (c) procurement incidentals and distribution cost
- The total amount that the Food Corporation of India spends on food grains is the sum of the minimum support price to farmers, bonus payments, and additional costs for procurement, plus expenses for distribution.
|
151. Consider the following statements:
1. In the case of all cereals, pulses and oil-seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) is unlimited in any State/UT of India.
2. In the case of cereals and pulses, the MSP is fixed in any State / UT at a level to which the market price will never rise.
Which of the statement given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- The government of India has created Minimum Support Price (MSP) to protect farmers from low crop prices. This MSP is applied to 24 different types of crops, such as cereals, pulses, oilseeds, etc.
- However, the procurement of these crops is only limited to a few states.
- The MSP is the same for all states, but the market price will not always stay below the MSP.
|
152. Consider the following statements :
1. The Commission for Agriculture Cost and Prices recommends the Minimum Support Prices for 32 crops.
2. The Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has launched the National Food Security Mission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2009]
Ans. (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) has set Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 22 crops and Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for Sugarcane.
- These 22 crops include 7 cereals, 5 pulses, 7 oilseeds and 3 commercial crops.
- The Department of Food and Public Distribution also sets MSP for Toria and De-husked Coconut based on Rapeseed-Mustard and Copra.
- The Government also sets FRP for Sugarcane. The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched in 2007-08 to increase foodgrain production.
- Both of the given statements are incorrect.
|
153. Consider the following :
1. Areca nut
2. Barley
3. Coffee
4. Finger millet
5. Groundnut
6. Sesamum
7. Turmeric
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has announced the Minimum Support Price for which of the above?
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 7 only
(b) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only
(c) 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) 2, 4, 5 and 6 only
- The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) currently recommends a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 22 crops and a Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane.
- These 22 crops include 7 cereals, 5 pulses, 7 oilseeds, and 3 commercial crops.
- The government also gives FRP for sugarcane. The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was created in 2007-08 to increase food grain production.
- Both of the given statements are incorrect.
|
154. Since 1997-98, which statement is correct regarding Minimum Support Price (MSP)?
(a) MSP = C2 costs
(b) MSP > C2 costs
(c) MSP < C2 costs
(d) MSP is independent of C2 cost.
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2016, R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2015]
Ans. (b) MSP > C2 costs
- The Cost Accounting and Cost Control Project suggests that the Minimum Support Prices for major crops should be based on C2 costs.
- This includes money spent on production and rent for leased land, as well as the value of family labor, interest on owned capital (not including land) and rent for owned land (minus land taxes).
- Since 1997-98, the MSPs have been higher than C2 costs.
|
155. Who determines the minimum support price in India?
(a) The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
(b) The Agriculture Ministry
(c) The Finance Commission
(d) NABARD
(e) None of the above/More than one of the above
[65th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
- In 1965, the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (formerly known as the Agricultural Prices Commission) was created.
- Its purpose is to suggest minimum support prices to encourage farmers to use modern technology and increase their crop production in order to meet the needs of the country.
- Every year, the government sets minimum support prices for major agricultural products based on the CACP’s recommendations.
|
156. The Agricultural Prices Commission (APC) was set up in the year :
(a) 1955
(b) 1965
(c) 1970
(d) 1973
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2002]
Ans. (b) 1965
- The Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (previously called the Agricultural Prices Commission) was established in January 1965.
- It has been known as CACP since 1985.
|
157. Minimum Support Price is decided by :
(a) I.C.A.R.
(b) State Government
(c) CACP
(d) None of these
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (c) CACP
- The Government of India sets the lowest prices that they will pay for certain crops at the start of the growing season, based on the suggestions of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices.
|
158. Which of the followings makes recommendation regarding fixing of minimum support price for various crops?
(a) Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(b) NABARD
(c) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
(d) Indian Agricultural Research Institute
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam.) 2015]
Ans. (c) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
- The Indian Government announces the lowest prices they will pay for certain crops at the start of the planting season, based on suggestions from the CACP.
|
159. Who recommends supporting price of the wheat?
(a) Planning Commission
(b) RBI
(c) President
(d) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1990]
Ans. (d) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
- India’s government announces minimum prices for certain crops at the start of the planting season, based on the suggestions of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices.
|
160. Institution which recommends support prices of foodgrains-
(a) Planning Commission
(b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
(c) Ministry of Agriculture
(d) Ministry of Irrigation
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1992]
Ans. (b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
- The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), which works under the Ministry of Agriculture, suggests minimum support prices (MSPs) for 22 types of crops in India, and also suggests a fair and reasonable price (FRP) for sugarcane.
|
161. Which of the following are the objectives of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP)?
1. To stabilize agricultural prices
2. To ensure meaningful real income levels to the farmers
3. To protect the interest of the consumers by providing essential agricultural commodities at reasonable rates through public distribution system
4. To ensure maximum price for the farmer
Select the correct answer from the codes given below :
Codes :
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 2 and 4
(c) 1, 3, and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1995]
Ans. (a) 1, 2 and 3
- The CACP is responsible for suggesting Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) to help farmers use modern technology and increase their production.
- Stable prices for agricultural products are necessary to help growers and make sure consumers can get essential goods at reasonable prices.
- Every year the government sets MSPs based on the CACP’s recommendations.
|
162. Public procurement of food grains at support prices ensures the following:
(A) Stability in farm prices
(B) Remunerative prices to the farmers
(C) Building food stocks for public distribution
Which of the above statements is correct?
(a) (A) and (B)
(b) (B) and (C)
(c) (A), (B), and (C)
(d) only (C)
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2013]
Ans. (c) (A), (B), and (C)
- The Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP) is responsible for suggesting Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) to motivate farmers to use modern technology to increase productivity and produce more food.
- Having a stable price environment is important to increase agricultural production and protect farmers from losses, even when they use the best technology.
- The government also sets MSPs every year based on the Commission’s recommendation to make sure food is available to consumers at reasonable prices.
|
163. Consider the following statements regarding the Minimum Support Price :
I. If the market price is high, then farmers will sell their produce to the government
II. This ensures minimum fixed prices for the farmers’ yields
III. It is helpful in Food Security Mission
IV. It is highly profitable for the farmers as they earn immense profit on their yields
Among these –
(a) I, II and IV are correct
(b) II, III and IV are correct
(c) II and IV are correct
(d) II and III are correct
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (d) II and III are correct
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) guarantees a minimum fixed price for farmers’ crops and encourages them to increase production. Farmers only sell their produce to the government if the market price is lower than the MSP.
- The goal of MSP is to provide the farmer with a minimum fixed value, not to make more money.
- MSP also helps with food security as it is used to determine the prices for items sold through the Public Distribution System (PDS).
|
164. The Minimum Support Price fixed by the Government for the purchase of wheat in 2013 is :
(a) Rs. 1280/quintal
(b) Rs. 1300/quintal
(c) Rs. 1350/quintal
(d) Rs. 1380/quintal
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (c) Rs. 1350/quintal
- When this question was asked, the Minimum Support Price for wheat was Rs. 1350 per quintal.
- For the 2021-2022 Rabi marketing season, the MSP of wheat has been raised to Rs. 1975 per quintal, which is higher than the MSP (Rs. 1925 per quintal) for the previous year 2020-2021
|
165. From 4th July, 2018 the Minimum Support Price (MSP) during 2018-19 for paddy per quintal is :
(a) Rs. 1,550
(b) Rs. 1,650
(c) Rs. 1,750
(d) Rs. 1,950
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (c) Rs. 1,750
- In 2018-19, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for a quintal of paddy was set at Rs. 1750 (Grade A Rs. 1770).
- This was increased to Rs. 1815 (Grade A Rs. 1835) for 2019-20, and then to Rs. 1868 (Grade A Rs. 1888) for 2020-21.
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) recently decided to raise the MSP of paddy (common) by Rs. 72 per quintal, making it Rs. 1940 (Grade A Rs. 1960) for 2021-22.
|
166. Which State of India has recently decided to fix a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for fruits and vegetables?
(a) Kerala
(b) Manipur
(c) Himachal Pradesh
(d) Telangana
[U.P. R.O. / A.R.O. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (a) Kerala
- In October 2020, the Kerala government made a decision to help farmers make their state more self-sufficient in fruit and vegetable production.
- They did this by setting a minimum support price (MSP) for what farmers can sell their produce for.
- This decision took effect on November 1, 2020.
- This made Kerala the first state in India to have an MSP system for 16 different kinds of vegetables, fruits, and tubers.
|
167. Minimum Support Price for groundnut announced by the Government of India for 1995-96 is –
(a) 900 Rs/quintal
(b) 875 Rs/quintal
(c) 850 Rs/quintal
(d) 800 Rs/quintal
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1995*]
Ans. (a) 900 Rs/quintal
- The Government of India announced the Minimum Support Price for groundnut in 1995-96 as Rs. 900 per quintal.
- This has now been increased to Rs. 5550 per quintal for 2021-22, up from Rs. 5275 per quintal in 2020-21.
|
168. The price at which the Government purchases foodgrains is :
(a) Ceiling Price
(b) Market Price
(c) Minimum Support Price
(d) Procurement Price
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (d) Procurement Price
- The government buys the farmers’ crops at a price higher than the Minimum Support Price.
|
169. The prices at which the government purchases foodgrains for maintaining the public distribution system and for building up buffer stock is known as:
(a) Minimum Support Prices
(b) Procurement Prices
(c) Issue Prices
(d) Ceiling Prices
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (b) Procurement Prices
- The government buys food for its public distribution program and to keep stocks on hand at set prices, which are called procurement prices.
|
170. Which one among the followings is not a cash crop ?
(a) Tobacco
(b) Cotton
(c) Soyabean
(d) Rubber
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) Soyabean
- Tobacco, cotton and rubber are considered cash crops, but soybean is not.
|
171. In the Union Budget 2011-2012, the effective rate of interest for farmers on timely repayment of bank loan is :
(a) 7 percent
(b) 6 percent
(c) 4 percent
(d) 3 percent
[U.P.P.C.S (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (c) 4 percent
- In the budget for 2011-12, the government gave farmers an extra 1% interest when they paid their bank loans on time.
- This made the total interest rate 4% for short-term crop loans of up to 3 lakhs.
- This rate is still the same.
|
172. Which of the followings is not included in running cost capital of a farm?
(a) Seed
(b) Fertilizer
(c) Irrigation water
(d) Land revenue
[U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (d) Land revenue
- The money needed to run a farm does not include the cost of land, but it does include the cost of things like seeds, fertilizer, and irrigation water, which are all necessary for farming.
|
173. Which One of the followings does not contribute to the rural economy ?
(a) Pastoralism .
(b) Cottage industry
(c) Practice of lending personal money
(d) Accessibility of good tools
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (c) Practice of lending personal money
- Animal husbandry, cottage industries, and good equipment are important for the rural economy.
- The contribution of option (c) is much smaller compared to the other three, so option (c) is the best answer.
|
174. Which of the following is the main principle of agriculture finance?
(a) Purpose
(b) Person
(c) Productivity planning
(d) All of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2016]
Ans. (d) All of the above
- In agricultural finance, the main idea is to plan for the purpose, the people involved, and how productive the results will be.
|
175. Which is not a source of agricultural finance in India?
(a) Co-operative Societies
(b) Commercial Banks
(c) Regional Rural Banks
(d) None of these
[44th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2000]
Ans. (d) None of these
- In India, agricultural finance comes from two types of sources.
- The first type is institutional sources, such as cooperative societies and banks, commercial banks, regional rural banks, and the government.
- The second type is non-institutional sources, like private money-lenders, relatives, businessmen, and zamindars.
- According to the NAFIS Report 2016-17, in 2015 about 72% of agricultural finance came from institutional sources and 28% came from non-institutional sources.
|
176. The farmers are provided credit from a number of sources for their short-and long-term needs. The main sources of credit to the farmers include:
(a) the Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies, Commercial Banks, RRBs and private money-lenders
(b) the NABARD, RBI, Commercial Banks and private money-lenders
(c) the District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCB), the Lead Banks, IRDP and JRY
(d) the Large Scale Multi-purpose Adivasis Programme, DCCB, IFFCO and Commercial Banks
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (a) the Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies, Commercial Banks, RRBs and private money-lenders
- In India, farming finance comes from two types of sources.
- The first are institutional sources, such as cooperative societies, banks, regional rural banks and the government.
- The second type is non-institutional sources, which include private lenders, family members, businesspeople and landlords.
- According to the NAFIS Report 2016-17, in 2015, institutional credit made up around 72% of agricultural finance, while non-institutional credit made up 28%.
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177. Consider the following statements:
1. In terms of short-term credit delivery to the agriculture sector, District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) deliver more credit in comparison to Scheduled Commercial Banks and Regional Rural Banks.
2. One of the most important functions of DCCBs is to provide funds to the Primary Agricultural Credit Societies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- A District Co-operative Central Bank (DCCB) is a type of cooperative bank that works at the district level in India.
- Its main purpose is to provide banking services to rural areas for the agricultural sector.
- According to NABARD’s Annual Report for 2019-20, only 10.9% of the total credit given to agriculture came from cooperative banks like DCCBs, compared to 77.2% from Commercial Banks and 11.9% from Regional Rural Banks.
- The share of short-term credit in total credit flow to agriculture was about 59.7% in 2019-20.
- This means that statement (1) is not correct.
- The functions of DCCBs are to provide funding and leadership to ‘Primary Agricultural Credit Societies’ (PACS) and to supervise and support them.
- Therefore, statement (2) is correct.
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178. Long-term agricultural credit is provided by :
(a) Primary Cooperative Society
(b) District Cooperative Bank
( c) Land Development Bank
(d) State Cooperative Bank
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2014]
Ans. (c) Land Development Bank
- Cooperative banks specifically for agricultural credit, known as Land Development Banks (formerly called Land Mortgage Banks), provide long-term financing.
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179. Which one of the followings is the largest source of agricultural credit in India in recent years ?
(a) Commercial Banks
(b) Co-operative Banks
(c) Regional Rural Banks
(d) Land Development Banks
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2006*]
Ans. (a) Commercial Banks
- According to the NABARD’s Annual Report 2019-20, most of the agricultural credit (both short-term and long-term) came from Commercial Banks in 2019-20, making up 77.2% of the total.
- This is a big increase from 53.7% in 1999-2000.
- The share of Co-operative Banks/Institutions decreased from 39.5% to 10.9% over this period and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) increased their share from 6.9% to 11.9%.
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180. Following are the sources of institutional credit to agriculture in India :
1. Co-operative Banks 2. Regional Rural Banks
3. Commercial Banks
Which one is the correct sequence in descending order of their importance ?
(a) 1, 3, 2
(b) 2, 1, 3
(c) 3, 2, 1
(d) 3, 1, 2
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (c) 3, 2, 1
- Option (d) was the right answer for the question.
- But now, the right answer is option (c).
- Read the explanation for this question.
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181. In India, which of the followings have the highest share in the disbursement of credit to agriculture and allied activities?
(a) Commercial Banks
(b) Cooperative Banks
(c) Regional Rural Banks
(d) Micro-finance Institutions
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (a) Commercial Banks
- Most of the loans given to farming and related activities come from commercial banks.
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182. Which among the followings is providing least institutional credit to agriculture and allied activities in recent years?
(a) Commercial Banks
(b) Foreign Private Banks
(c) Cooperative Banks
(d) Regional Rural Banks
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2010]
Ans. (b) Foreign Private Banks
- Banks, cooperative organizations, and regional rural banks (RRBs) mostly give loans to farming and related activities.
- Foreign private banks hardly give out loans for these activities.
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183. To improve institutional agricultural credit flow, what credit target for 2020-21 has been fixed in the Union Budget of India?
(a) Rs. 10 lakh crore
(b) Rs. 13.5 lakh crore
(c) Rs. 15 lakh crore
(d) Rs. 16.5 lakh crore
(e) None of the above / More than one of the above
[66th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (c) Rs. 15 lakh crore
- In the Union Budget for 2020-2021, the government set a goal of providing 15 lakh crore rupees in agricultural credit to help improve access to financial resources for farmers.
- For the subsequent two years, 2021-2022 and 2022-2023, the target has been increased to 16.5 lakh crore and 18 lakh crore rupees respectively.
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184. Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?
1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets
2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks
3. Consumption requirements of farm households
4. Post-harvest expenses
5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 5 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
- In 1998, the Kisan Credit Card scheme was launched with the goal of helping farmers get access to credit easily and quickly. This plan was made by NABARD based on the suggestions of the R.V. Gupta Committee.
- It was created to help with short-term credit needs for farming, post-harvest expenses, working capital for farm assets and activities, and consumption needs of farming households.
- However, it does not cover investment credit needs for agriculture and related activities like pumps, sprayers, and dairy animals.
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185. Kisan Credit Card Scheme was announced in the year :
(a) 2004-05
(b) 2000-01
(c) 1998-99
(d) 1995-96
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2008, U.P.P.S.C. (GIC) 2010]
Ans. (c) 1998-99
- In 1998, the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) was created to help farmers buy things they need for farming, such as seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides.
- They can also take out cash for their farming needs.
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186. Consider the following statements about Kisan Credit Card Scheme –
1. The Kisan Credit Card scheme was launched in the year 2001.
2. This scheme provides adequate and timely credit support to the farmers for their cultivation needs.
Of these :
(a) Only 1 is correct
(b) Only 2 is correct
(c) 1 and 2 both are correct
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 is correct
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (b) Only 2 is correct
- \In 1998, the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme was started.
- Banks were told to give Kisan Credit Cards to farmers based on their land holdings.
- This card would allow farmers to buy things like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides easily, and they could also get cash for their farming needs.
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187. Consider the following events and arrange them in chronological order :
1. Establishment of NABARD
2. Self-Help Group Bank Linkage Programme
3. Kisan Credit Card Plan
4. Establishment of Regional Rural Bank
Select the correct answer from the codes given below.
Codes:
(a) 4, 1, 2, 3
(b) 4, 2, 3, 1
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) 4, 3, 2, 1
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (a) 4, 1, 2, 3
- NABARD was created in 1982, the Self Help Group Bank Linkage Programme was launched in 1992-93, the Kisan Credit Card Plan was introduced in 1998 and Regional Rural Banks were created in 1975.
- Option (a) is the correct chronological order.
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188. The New Package for Agriculture announced by the UPA Government does not provide :
(a) Landless agriculturists will get loan from banks
(b) NABARD will work out a proposal for loans to landless agriculturists
(c) 50 lakhs new farmers will be covered under the loan scheme
(d) Concession in loan payment
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2005]
Ans. (d) Concession in loan payment
- The UPA Government’s new farming plan states that banks will give loans to landless farmers and NABARD will come up with a plan to lend money to more than 50 lakh new farmers.
- This package does not mention any loan waivers or discounts on loan payments.
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189. Government of India has taken a decision to set up a Price Stabilisation Fund for the growers of :
(a) Potato and Onion
(b) Sugarcane
(c) Coffee and Tea
(d) Tomato
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (c) Coffee and Tea
- The government of India started the Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) Scheme to help out small farmers who grow coffee, tea, rubber, and tobacco.
- The scheme was active from April 2003 to September 2013 and it was meant to help farmers who only had up to four hectares of land.
- This was done because of the changing prices on the international market and how it affects the farmers.
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190. With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements :
1. Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
2. State Governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) 1 and 3 only
- The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 states that sand is a ‘minor mineral’.
- It also states that the Central Government can declare any other mineral to be a minor mineral.
- Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is correct, as the State Government can make rules for preventing illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals.
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