UPSC Prelims 2011 · Question 38 of 100
UPSC Prelims 2011 question on Gujarat Cotton Cash Crops
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2011
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectGeography
- TopicGeomorphology
- DifficultyMedium
- TypeStatement
A state in India has the following characteristics:
1. Its northern part is arid and semi-arid.
2. Its central part produces cotton.
3. Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.
Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?
Show answer
Answer: B. Gujarat
Verdict
Correct Answer: Gujarat
Analysis
The state described in the question is Gujarat, because it satisfies all three conditions: an arid/semi-arid northern region, cotton production in the central region, and dominance of cash crops.
1. Northern part is arid and semi-arid — Correct for Gujarat
Northern and north-western Gujarat, especially Kutch and parts of Saurashtra, have arid and semi-arid conditions. The Rann of Kutch is one of the driest regions of India.
2. Central part produces cotton — Correct for Gujarat
Central Gujarat has black soil, also called regur soil, which is suitable for cotton cultivation due to its moisture-retention capacity. Gujarat is one of India’s leading cotton-producing states.
3. Cash crops are predominant over food crops — Correct for Gujarat
Gujarat has a strong commercial agriculture base. Major cash crops include cotton, groundnut, tobacco, castor and isabgul. Food crops are grown, but cash crops have a dominant role in the state’s agricultural economy.
Extra UPSC info
Black soil is ideal for cotton because it retains moisture and is rich in lime, iron and magnesia.
Gujarat is also a major producer of groundnut and castor.
The Rann of Kutch is a seasonal salt marsh.
Saurashtra and Kutch are relatively dry regions, while central and southern Gujarat are more agriculturally productive.
Cotton is called a cash crop and is linked with the textile industry.
How to crack it
The combination of arid northern region, cotton-producing central region, and dominance of cash crops clearly points to Gujarat.