What are the significance of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as ‘Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative’?

1. Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
2. Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this.
3. There is no application of chemical/ inorganic fertilizers at all in this.
4. The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 and 3 only
2. 1, 2 and 4 only
3. 2, 3 and 4 only
4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) is a resource-efficient method of cultivation that significantly reduces seed cost by using single-bud chips instead of conventional setts. It also promotes wider spacing between plants, which enables the effective use of drip irrigation. Further, this wider spacing increases the scope for intercropping, allowing farmers to cultivate additional crops alongside sugarcane, thereby enhancing overall productivity and income. It does not prohibit chemical fertilizers; rather, it promotes judicious and reduced use.

Answer: (b) 1, 2 and 4 only; Difficulty Level: Hard