On the basis of the main source of moisture for crops, analyse the types of farming in the Indian scenario

Class 12th Geography, Question -On the basis of the main source of moisture for crops, analyse the types of farming in the Indian scenario

Question 17:On the basis of the main source of moisture for crops, analyse the types of farming in the Indian scenario

The correct answer is – In the Indian scenario, farming can be broadly classified into two types based on the source of moisture for crops:

  1. Rainfed Farming: In this type of farming, crops are mainly dependent on rainfall for their water requirements. Rainfed farming is mainly practised in regions with an annual rainfall of less than 750 mm. The productivity of rainfed farming is low, and it is highly susceptible to droughts and other natural calamities. Rainfed farming is mainly practised in the Deccan plateau, Central Highlands, and some parts of North-Western India.

  2. Irrigated Farming: In this type of farming, water for crops is supplied through artificial means like canals, tube wells, tanks, and other irrigation facilities. Irrigated farming is practised in regions where the annual rainfall is more than 750 mm. Irrigation facilities have made it possible to grow crops throughout the year, and hence the productivity of irrigated farming is generally higher than rainfed farming. Irrigated farming is mainly practised in the Indo-Gangetic plain, Coastal regions, and some parts of Southern India.

In recent years, a third type of farming has emerged, which is a mix of both rainfed and irrigated farming. In this type of farming, crops are mainly dependent on rainfall, but farmers also use irrigation facilities during the dry season to supplement the water requirements of crops. This type of farming is practised in regions where the annual rainfall is erratic, and the farmers are forced to adopt a mix of rainfed and irrigated farming.