Q36 · UPPSC Prelims 2024 · Set A · General Studies

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Consider the following statements with reference to cotton crops:1.Cotton is mostly a Kharif crop.2.Cotton crop requires moderate amounts of rainfall varying between 50–75 cm annually.Which of the above statements is/are correct?Select the correct answer from the code given below:

A Both 1 and 2
B Neither 1 nor 2
C Only 1
D Only 2

Correct answer: (a) Both 1 and 2

Explanation

  1. A

    Both 1 and 2

    Both 1 and 2. Statement 1 is correct because cotton is primarily grown as a Kharif crop in India, sown in the rainy season. Statement 2 is also correct as the cotton crop requires moderate rainfall, generally ranging between 50 to 75 cm annually, or supplementary irrigation where rainfall is deficient, making this option the comprehensive and correct choice.

  2. B

    Neither 1 nor 2

    Neither 1 nor 2. This option claims that both statements regarding the Kharif nature and rainfall requirement of cotton are wrong. However, both given statements are factual and scientifically accurate regarding cotton cultivation.

  3. C

    Only 1

    Only 1. This option accepts the first statement about cotton being a Kharif crop but incorrectly rejects the second statement regarding its rainfall requirement. Since both statements are valid, this partial choice is incorrect.

  4. D

    Only 2

    Only 2. This option accepts the second statement about rainfall while incorrectly rejecting the first statement regarding cotton being a Kharif crop. Both statements are accurate, so choosing only one makes this option incomplete.

Summary. Official key is (a) Both 1 and 2. Cotton is a major commercial Kharif crop sown during the monsoon season in various parts of India. It thrives well in tropical and subtropical conditions requiring 50 to 75 cm of annual rainfall. Bright sunshine during growth is also essential for the proper opening of cotton bolls. Therefore, both statements given in the question are correct.