With reference to the circumstances in Indian agriculture, the concept of “Conservation Agriculture” assumes significance” Which of the following fall under the Conservation Agriculture?

1. Avoiding the monoculture practices
2. Adopting minimum tillage
3. Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops
4. Using crop residues to cover soil surface
5. Adopting spatial and temporal crop sequencing/crop rotations

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 3 and 4
2. 2, 3, 4 and 5
3. 2, 4 and 5
4. 1, 2, 3 and 5

Explanation

Statements 2, 4 and 5 are correct

• Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a farming system that can prevent losses of arable land while regenerating degraded lands. It promotes maintenance of a permanent soil cover, minimum soil disturbance, and diversification of plant species.
• Three principles of Conservation Agriculture:
  • Minimum mechanical soil disturbance
  • Permanent soil organic cover
  • Species diversification
• Adopting Minimum Tillage: Minimum tillage involves reducing the amount of soil disturbance during planting and growing seasons.
• Benefits: Preserves soil structure, which is crucial for water retention and root development.
  • Reduces erosion by keeping the soil surface intact.
  • Enhances microbial activity and maintains organic matter levels in the soil.
• Using Crop Residues to Cover Soil Surface: This practice involves leaving leftover plant material (crop residues) on the field after harvest.
• Benefits: Protects the soil from erosion by wind and water.
  • Helps retain soil moisture and temperature, creating a favourable environment for soil organisms.
  • Adds organic matter to the soil as the residues decompose, improving soil fertility.
• Adopting Spatial and Temporal Crop Sequencing/Crop Rotations: Crop rotation involves alternating different types of crops in the same field across seasons or years, while spatial sequencing refers to the arrangement of different crops in a specific pattern.
• Benefits: Reduces pest and disease cycles, as different crops may not support the same pests.
  • Enhances soil fertility through the inclusion of legumes, which can fix atmospheric nitrogen.

Statements 1 and 3 are incorrect

• Avoiding monoculture practices: This does not directly fall under Conservation Agriculture. Monoculture refers to the cultivation of a single crop over a wide area.
• Avoiding the cultivation of plantation crops: This is not a component of Conservation Agriculture. Plantation crops such as tea, coffee, and rubber can also be cultivated using conservation agriculture practices.

Answer: (c) 2, 4 and 5; Difficulty Level: Easy