UPSC Prelims 2011 · GS Paper I

Question 93: Geography

The lower Gangetic plain is characterised by humid climate with high temperature throughout the year. Which one among the following pairs of crops is most suitable for this region ?

aPaddy and cotton

bWheat and Jute

cPaddy and Jute

dWheat and cotton

AnswerThe answer is (c).

The lower Gangetic plain, in West Bengal and Bangladesh, has hot, humid conditions, heavy rainfall and alluvial soils that are often flooded. Paddy needs high temperature, plentiful water and humidity. Jute needs warm, moist air and standing water for retting. Wheat is a cool-season crop that needs moderate rainfall, and cotton needs drier, sunnier conditions. So paddy and jute fit the region best.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Cotton needs drier, sunnier conditions than this humid region offers.
(b) Wheat is a cool-season crop and does not suit hot, humid conditions.
(c) Right: paddy and jute suit heat, humidity and heavy rain.
(d) Neither wheat nor cotton suits the humid lower Gangetic plain.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

Practise this paper timedPrevious question Next question

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2011, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.