What are the significances 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.
A
1 and 3 only
B
1, 2 and 4 only
Correct answer
C
2, 3 and 4 only
D
1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation
The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) is correct because it reduces seed costs by using young seedlings instead of heavy sets and enhances intercropping and irrigation efficiency through wider plant spacing. Statement 3 is incorrect because SSI advocates for the *judicious* use of fertilizers rather than a total prohibition of inorganic inputs, making option (d) the most tempting but incorrect choice. The core concept tested is resource-efficient agricultural management designed to optimize water, land, and seed inputs for higher productivity.
Sustainable AgricultureSugarcane Cultivation PracticesSustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI)seed costdrip irrigationchemical fertilizersintercroppingconventional cultivationwater efficiency