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 :
A
1, 3 and 4
B
2, 3, 4 and 5
C
2, 4 and 5
Correct answer
D
1, 2, 3 and 5
Explanation
Option (c) is correct because it encompasses the three fundamental pillars of Conservation Agriculture as defined by the FAO: minimum soil disturbance (Statement 2), permanent organic soil cover using crop residues (Statement 4), and diversified crop rotations (Statement 5). Options (a), (b), and (d) are incorrect because they include Statement 3, whereas Conservation Agriculture focuses on soil management techniques rather than the exclusion of specific crop types like plantation crops. The core concept tested is the specific framework of sustainable land management practices designed to improve soil health and water retention.
Sustainable AgricultureConservation Agriculture PracticesConservation AgricultureMinimum tillageCrop residuesCrop rotationMonoculture