Protected cultivation – Importance and scope, status of protected cultivation
In India and World
Definition and Concept-Based Questions
- What is the primary goal of protected cultivation?
a) To enhance the visual appeal of agricultural fields
b) To control the microclimate surrounding plants for optimal growth
c) To minimize the use of agricultural machinery
d) To increase the dependency on natural weather conditions Correct Answer: b) To control the microclimate surrounding plants for optimal growth
Explanation: Protected cultivation modifies the natural environment to suit plant growth requirements, as outlined in the document, by controlling factors like temperature, humidity, and light. - How is a greenhouse defined in the context of protected cultivation?
a) A structure made entirely of glass for aesthetic purposes
b) A framed or inflated structure with a transparent/translucent cover for controlled crop growth
c) An open-field setup with minimal environmental control
d) A temporary shelter for seasonal crops Correct Answer: b) A framed or inflated structure with a transparent/translucent cover for controlled crop growth
Explanation: The document defines a greenhouse as a structure covered with transparent or translucent material, allowing at least partial environmental control for crop cultivation. - What distinguishes protected cultivation from traditional farming?
a) The use of organic fertilizers exclusively
b) The ability to partially or fully control the plant microclimate
c) The elimination of all manual labor
d) The reliance on seasonal rainfall Correct Answer: b) The ability to partially or fully control the plant microclimate
Explanation: Protected cultivation is characterized by its ability to manipulate the microclimate, unlike traditional farming, which depends heavily on natural conditions. - Which of the following structures is NOT explicitly mentioned as a type of protected cultivation in the document?
a) Greenhouse
b) Net house
c) Shade house
d) Brick house Correct Answer: d) Brick house
Explanation: The document lists greenhouses, plastic houses, cloth houses, net houses, and shade houses, but does not mention brick houses as a protected cultivation structure.
Benefits and Importance
- Which benefit of greenhouse cultivation directly impacts water resource management?
a) Protection from adverse weather
b) Reduction in water consumption by 40-50%
c) Improved quality of produce
d) Year-round crop production Correct Answer: b) Reduction in water consumption by 40-50%
Explanation: The document highlights that greenhouses optimize water use, reducing consumption by 40-50% compared to open-field farming. - How do greenhouses contribute to reducing disease and pest incidence?
a) By increasing the use of chemical pesticides
b) By providing a physical barrier against pests and pathogens
c) By eliminating the need for soil
d) By enhancing natural predator populations Correct Answer: b) By providing a physical barrier against pests and pathogens
Explanation: The enclosed structure of greenhouses prevents the entry of pests and pathogens, reducing their incidence. - What is a key advantage of greenhouse cultivation for high-value crops?
a) Reduced need for skilled labor
b) Ability to produce high-quality crops for export markets
c) Elimination of irrigation requirements
d) Increased reliance on natural pollination Correct Answer: b) Ability to produce high-quality crops for export markets
Explanation: The document notes that greenhouses enable the production of high-value, high-quality crops, such as flowers, suitable for export. - Why do crops mature faster in greenhouses compared to open fields?
a) Due to higher exposure to sunlight
b) Due to controlled conditions optimizing growth
c) Due to increased use of fertilizers
d) Due to reduced competition from weeds Correct Answer: b) Due to controlled conditions optimizing growth
Explanation: Controlled environmental conditions in greenhouses, such as temperature and humidity, accelerate plant growth and maturity. - Which of the following is a social benefit of greenhouse cultivation?
a) Increased shelf life of produce
b) More self-employment opportunities for educated youth
c) Reduction in water consumption
d) Protection from frost Correct Answer: b) More self-employment opportunities for educated youth
Explanation: The document states that greenhouses create self-employment opportunities, particularly for educated youth on farms. - How do greenhouses enhance the shelf life of produce?
a) By using chemical preservatives
b) By reducing exposure to external contaminants
c) By accelerating the ripening process
d) By increasing moisture content Correct Answer: b) By reducing exposure to external contaminants
Explanation: The controlled environment minimizes spoilage factors, extending the shelf life of greenhouse-grown produce.
Scope and Applications
- What is a major scope of greenhouse cultivation in problematic agro-climatic zones in India?
a) Enhancing soil fertility naturally
b) Producing substantial returns from uncultivable lands
c) Reducing the need for irrigation entirely
d) Promoting large-scale livestock farming Correct Answer: b) Producing substantial returns from uncultivable lands
Explanation: The document highlights that greenhouses can make barren or desert lands productive, offering economic returns. - Why are greenhouses around big cities in India significant?
a) They reduce urban pollution
b) They meet year-round demand for fresh vegetables and ornamentals
c) They decrease transportation costs for farmers
d) They increase land prices in urban areas Correct Answer: b) They meet year-round demand for fresh vegetables and ornamentals
Explanation: The document notes the urban demand for fresh produce, which greenhouses can supply consistently. - Which crop is specifically mentioned as grown in greenhouses around Hyderabad for export?
a) Tomatoes
b) Gherkins
c) Roses
d) Cucumbers Correct Answer: b) Gherkins
Explanation: Gherkins are cited in the document as an export-oriented crop grown in greenhouses near Hyderabad. - How do greenhouses support plant propagation?
a) By eliminating the need for seeds
b) By providing a controlled environment for seedlings and cuttings
c) By increasing genetic diversity naturally
d) By reducing the cost of fertilizers Correct Answer: b) By providing a controlled environment for seedlings and cuttings
Explanation: Greenhouses offer the controlled conditions needed for successful seedling and cutting growth. - What role do greenhouses play in biotechnology applications?
a) Developing new pesticide formulations
b) Propagating tissue-cultured plants
c) Testing soil enhancement techniques
d) Producing genetically modified seeds Correct Answer: b) Propagating tissue-cultured plants
Explanation: The document specifies that greenhouses provide the controlled environment required for tissue-cultured plant propagation. - Which type of plants are identified for large-scale cultivation in greenhouses in India?
a) Cereal crops like wheat and rice
b) Rare and medicinal plants like orchids
c) Timber-producing trees
d) Oilseed crops like sunflower Correct Answer: b) Rare and medicinal plants like orchids
Explanation: The document mentions rare and medicinal plants, such as orchids, as suitable for greenhouse cultivation.
Global and National Status
- What is the estimated global area under greenhouse cultivation as per the document?
a) 275,000 ha
b) 405,000 ha
c) 500,000 ha
d) 1,000,000 ha Correct Answer: b) 405,000 ha
Explanation: The document estimates that 405,000 hectares are under greenhouse cultivation worldwide. - Which country has the largest area under protected cultivation?
a) Israel
b) China
c) Japan
d) United States Correct Answer: b) China
Explanation: China leads with over 2.5 million hectares under protected cultivation, primarily for vegetables. - When did India first experience hi-tech protected cultivation?
a) 1980
b) 1990
c) 1998
d) 2003 Correct Answer: c) 1998
Explanation: The Indo-Israel project, initiated in 1998, introduced hi-tech greenhouse cultivation to India. - Which Indian state had the highest cumulative area under protected cultivation till 2012?
a) Gujarat
b) Maharashtra
c) Andhra Pradesh
d) Haryana Correct Answer: b) Maharashtra
Explanation: Maharashtra had 5,730.23 hectares under protected cultivation by 2012, the highest among states listed. - What percentage of Telangana’s vegetable and flower crop value comes from polyhouse-grown crops like tomato and roses?
a) 15%
b) 25%
c) 31%
d) 40% Correct Answer: c) 31%
Explanation: These crops account for 31% of Telangana’s total vegetable and flower crop value, as per the document. - How many countries worldwide undertake commercial-scale protected cultivation?
a) Over 25
b) Over 40
c) Over 55
d) Over 70 Correct Answer: c) Over 55
Explanation: The document states that more than 55 countries practice commercial protected cultivation.
Historical Context
- What was the significance of the Indo-Israel project in India?
a) It introduced organic farming methods
b) It brought hi-tech greenhouse cultivation to India
c) It focused on water conservation techniques
d) It promoted traditional farming practices Correct Answer: b) It brought hi-tech greenhouse cultivation to India
Explanation: Initiated in 1998, the project introduced advanced greenhouse technology to India. - Where was the Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology (CPCT) established?
a) Hyderabad
b) New Delhi
c) Mumbai
d) Ahmedabad Correct Answer: b) New Delhi
Explanation: The CPCT was established at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi. - How long did the Indo-Israel project last in India?
a) 3 years
b) 5 years
c) 7 years
d) 10 years Correct Answer: b) 5 years
Explanation: The project ran from 1998 to 2003, a duration of five years.
Technical Aspects
- What is the most common material used for covering greenhouses?
a) Glass
b) Plastic
c) Cloth
d) Metal Correct Answer: b) Plastic
Explanation: Plastic is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness and flexibility, though glass is also mentioned. - Which irrigation method is used for nearly 90% of polyethylene mulched crops in Telangana?
a) Flood irrigation
b) Drip irrigation
c) Sprinkler irrigation
d) Manual watering Correct Answer: b) Drip irrigation
Explanation: The document states that 90% of these crops in Telangana use drip irrigation. - What technique mentioned in the document requires a controlled environment for growing plants without soil?
a) Hydroponics
b) Aeroponics
c) Net house cultivation
d) Shade house farming Correct Answer: a) Hydroponics
Explanation: Hydroponics, linked to biotechnology in the document, involves growing plants in nutrient solutions under controlled conditions. - Which environmental factor is NOT directly controlled in a greenhouse?
a) Temperature
b) Humidity
c) Rainfall
d) Light Correct Answer: c) Rainfall
Explanation: Greenhouses control temperature, humidity, and light, but rainfall is external and mitigated by the structure itself. - What feature of greenhouses supports plant breeding?
a) High water usage
b) Insect-proof design and microclimate manipulation
c) Open ventilation systems
d) Soil-based cultivation Correct Answer: b) Insect-proof design and microclimate manipulation
Explanation: These features allow controlled breeding and seed production, as noted in the document.
Economic and Social Impact
- How does greenhouse cultivation benefit small landholders in India?
a) By reducing land requirements
b) By increasing income several-fold
c) By eliminating labor costs
d) By decreasing crop diversity Correct Answer: b) By increasing income several-fold
Explanation: The document highlights that greenhouses boost income from small holdings through high-value crop production. - What economic advantage do greenhouses offer for export markets?
a) Lower production costs
b) Production of high-quality, export-oriented crops
c) Reduced transportation needs
d) Increased reliance on local markets Correct Answer: b) Production of high-quality, export-oriented crops
Explanation: Greenhouses enable the cultivation of crops like cut flowers and gherkins for international markets. - How does greenhouse cultivation reduce labor involvement?
a) By automating all farming processes
b) By optimizing resource use and controlled conditions
c) By eliminating the need for planting
d) By increasing manual tasks Correct Answer: b) By optimizing resource use and controlled conditions
Explanation: Controlled environments reduce the labor needed for tasks like pest control and watering. - What is a key economic benefit of growing medicinal plants in greenhouses?
a) Reduced export potential
b) High commercial value under controlled conditions
c) Increased pest incidence
d) Lower quality produce Correct Answer: b) High commercial value under controlled conditions
Explanation: Medicinal plants thrive in greenhouses, yielding high economic returns due to controlled growth.
Challenges and Limitations
- What is a primary challenge in adopting greenhouse cultivation?
a) High initial investment costs
b) Lack of suitable crops
c) Limited water availability
d) Excessive labor availability Correct Answer: a) High initial investment costs
Explanation: The document implies that the setup cost of greenhouses is a significant barrier to adoption. - Which factor does NOT typically limit greenhouse cultivation?
a) Availability of skilled labor
b) High energy costs
c) Access to sunlight
d) Initial capital investment Correct Answer: c) Access to sunlight
Explanation: Greenhouses are designed to utilize sunlight effectively, unlike the other factors, which pose challenges. - How has the CPCT addressed a limitation of greenhouse cultivation?
a) By eliminating the need for irrigation
b) By reducing costs and adapting designs to local conditions
c) By increasing reliance on imported technology
d) By focusing solely on organic farming Correct Answer: b) By reducing costs and adapting designs to local conditions
Explanation: The CPCT has worked to lower costs and tailor greenhouse structures to India’s needs.
Comparative Analysis
- How does crop productivity in greenhouses compare to open fields?
a) Lower due to limited space
b) Higher due to controlled conditions
c) Equal due to similar inputs
d) Variable based on weather alone Correct Answer: b) Higher due to controlled conditions
Explanation: Controlled environments in greenhouses enhance growth and yield compared to open fields. - What is a key difference between greenhouse and traditional farming regarding pest management?
a) Greenhouses rely more on chemical pesticides
b) Greenhouses use physical barriers to reduce pest incidence
c) Traditional farming avoids pest control entirely
d) Both use identical pest management strategies Correct Answer: b) Greenhouses use physical barriers to reduce pest incidence
Explanation: Greenhouses reduce pest entry physically, unlike traditional farming, which often requires more chemical intervention. - Which resource is used more efficiently in greenhouses than in open-field farming?
a) Labor
b) Water
c) Sunlight
d) Soil Correct Answer: b) Water
Explanation: Greenhouses reduce water consumption by 40-50%, optimizing its use compared to open fields.
Future Prospects
- What future trend is implied for greenhouse cultivation in India?
a) Decline due to high costs
b) Expansion in problematic agro-climatic zones
c) Replacement by traditional methods
d) Focus solely on cereal crops Correct Answer: b) Expansion in problematic agro-climatic zones
Explanation: The document suggests growth potential in uncultivable areas using greenhouse technology. - How might technology enhance greenhouse cultivation in the future?
a) By increasing manual labor needs
b) By improving automation and environmental control
c) By reducing crop variety
d) By eliminating export potential Correct Answer: b) By improving automation and environmental control
Explanation: Advances in technology could further optimize greenhouse conditions and reduce labor.
Additional Questions (43-100)
- What percentage of Telangana’s vegetables are produced on polythene mulch?
a) One-tenth
b) One-sixth
c) One-third
d) One-half Correct Answer: b) One-sixth
Explanation: The document states that nearly one-sixth of Telangana’s vegetables are grown on polythene mulch. - Which country began protected cultivation in the 1990s and now leads in area coverage?
a) Japan
b) China
c) Israel
d) Holland Correct Answer: b) China
Explanation: China started in the 1990s and now has over 2.5 million hectares under protected cultivation. - What is a key benefit of using greenhouses for solar drying?
a) Increased pest resistance
b) Utilization of controlled heat for drying farm produce
c) Reduced water usage
d) Enhanced seed germination Correct Answer: b) Utilization of controlled heat for drying farm produce
Explanation: Greenhouses can harness solar energy for drying, as noted in the document. - Which of the following is a high-value crop suitable for greenhouse cultivation?
a) Rice
b) Medicinal plants
c) Cotton
d) Sugarcane Correct Answer: b) Medicinal plants
Explanation: Medicinal plants are listed as high-value crops ideal for greenhouses. - What was the area under greenhouse cultivation in India by the end of the 20th century?
a) 50 ha
b) 110 ha
c) 275 ha
d) 500 ha Correct Answer: b) 110 ha
Explanation: The document reports 110 hectares under greenhouse cultivation in India by that time. - Which state is NOT listed as expanding protected cultivation between 2007-2012?
a) Punjab
b) Tamil Nadu
c) Kerala
d) West Bengal Correct Answer: c) Kerala
Explanation: Kerala is not mentioned among the states expanding protected cultivation in that period. - How many farmers in Telangana were involved in polyhouse cultivation as of March 2018?
a) 500
b) 917
c) 1,150
d) 2,000 Correct Answer: b) 917
Explanation: The document states that 917 farmers were involved in polyhouse cultivation in Telangana. - What is the primary purpose of the insect-proof feature in greenhouses?
a) To enhance pollination
b) To support plant breeding and pest reduction
c) To increase humidity
d) To reduce sunlight exposure Correct Answer: b) To support plant breeding and pest reduction
Explanation: The insect-proof design aids breeding by controlling pollination and reduces pest entry. - Which of the following is a direct outcome of better germination in greenhouses?
a) Increased labor costs
b) Faster crop maturity
c) Reduced export potential
d) Higher water usage Correct Answer: b) Faster crop maturity
Explanation: Better germination under controlled conditions leads to quicker plant development. - What is the main reason for promoting greenhouse cultivation near urban areas?
a) Lower land costs
b) High demand for off-season crops
c) Reduced pest incidence
d) Increased soil fertility Correct Answer: b) High demand for off-season crops
Explanation: Urban areas have a consistent demand for fresh and off-season produce, driving greenhouse use. - Which factor enhances the export potential of greenhouse-grown crops?
a) Lower quality standards
b) Consistent supply of high-quality produce
c) Increased pest exposure
d) Reduced shelf life Correct Answer: b) Consistent supply of high-quality produce
Explanation: Greenhouses ensure quality and year-round supply, boosting export markets. - What is the approximate area under protected cultivation in Gujarat till 2012?
a) 2,500 ha
b) 4,720.72 ha
c) 5,730.23 ha
d) 6,000 ha Correct Answer: b) 4,720.72 ha
Explanation: Gujarat had 4,720.72 hectares under protected cultivation by 2012, per the document. - Which environmental condition is NOT listed as a threat greenhouses protect against?
a) Cold
b) Wind
c) Earthquakes
d) Rain Correct Answer: c) Earthquakes
Explanation: The document mentions protection from cold, wind, storm, rain, and frost, but not earthquakes. - What is a key advantage of using Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) in greenhouses?
a) Increased soil dependency
b) Controlled nutrient delivery to plants
c) Reduced water quality
d) Higher pest incidence Correct Answer: b) Controlled nutrient delivery to plants
Explanation: NFT, mentioned in the document, provides precise nutrient supply in a controlled environment. - Why are greenhouses considered effective for year-round cultivation?
a) They eliminate seasonal changes
b) They allow control over environmental parameters
c) They reduce crop variety
d) They increase reliance on rainfall Correct Answer: b) They allow control over environmental parameters
Explanation: Control over temperature, light, and humidity enables continuous cropping. - Which of the following is a benefit of reduced disease incidence in greenhouses?
a) Increased pesticide use
b) Lower production costs
c) Higher water consumption
d) Reduced crop quality Correct Answer: b) Lower production costs
Explanation: Fewer diseases and pests reduce the need for treatments, lowering costs. - What is the main purpose of raising seedlings in greenhouses?
a) To reduce seed costs
b) To ensure successful nurseries under controlled conditions
c) To increase soil usage
d) To eliminate vegetative propagation Correct Answer: b) To ensure successful nurseries under controlled conditions
Explanation: Greenhouses provide the ideal environment for raising seedlings and cuttings. - Which country is noted for using protected cultivation in water-deficit areas?
a) China
b) Israel
c) Japan
d) England Correct Answer: b) Israel
Explanation: Israel is highlighted for producing quality crops in water-scarce regions using greenhouses. - What was the area under greenhouse cultivation worldwide by the end of the 20th century?
a) 110,000 ha
b) 275,000 ha
c) 405,000 ha
d) 500,000 ha Correct Answer: b) 275,000 ha
Explanation: The document reports 275,000 hectares globally by the end of the 20th century. - Which of the following is a benefit of greenhouse cultivation for organic crops?
a) Increased pest exposure
b) Controlled conditions for high-quality production
c) Reduced shelf life
d) Higher water usage Correct Answer: b) Controlled conditions for high-quality production
Explanation: Greenhouses support organic farming by controlling conditions for quality output. - What is the significance of cloth houses in Telangana?
a) They are the most expensive option
b) They are suitable for specific agro-climatic conditions
c) They eliminate the need for irrigation
d) They increase pest incidence Correct Answer: b) They are suitable for specific agro-climatic conditions
Explanation: Cloth houses are listed as a viable protected cultivation practice for Telangana. - How does greenhouse cultivation support plant variety development?
a) By increasing natural pollination
b) By manipulating the microclimate for breeding
c) By reducing seed production
d) By limiting environmental control Correct Answer: b) By manipulating the microclimate for breeding
Explanation: Controlled conditions aid in developing new plant varieties. - Which crop is NOT mentioned as a major polyhouse crop in Telangana?
a) Tomato
b) Gerbera
c) Wheat
d) Capsicum Correct Answer: c) Wheat
Explanation: Wheat is not listed among the major polyhouse crops like tomato, gerbera, and capsicum. - What is the primary reason for the high initial cost of greenhouses?
a) Expensive labor requirements
b) Cost of structural materials and technology
c) Increased water usage
d) Limited crop variety Correct Answer: b) Cost of structural materials and technology
Explanation: The setup involves costly materials and engineering, implied as a challenge in the document. - Which of the following enhances the feasibility of greenhouse cultivation in deserts?
a) High water availability
b) Ability to control harsh environmental conditions
c) Increased pest populations
d) Reduced sunlight exposure Correct Answer: b) Ability to control harsh environmental conditions
Explanation: Greenhouses can mitigate desert conditions, making cultivation viable. - What is a key feature of greenhouse designs refined by the CPCT?
a) Increased reliance on glass
b) Adaptation to local Indian conditions
c) Elimination of plastic covers
d) Focus on large-scale farming only Correct Answer: b) Adaptation to local Indian conditions
Explanation: The CPCT has tailored designs to suit India’s climate and needs. - How does greenhouse cultivation align with India’s horticultural scope?
a) By reducing crop diversity
b) By promoting cultivation of high-value and rare plants
c) By increasing soil degradation
d) By limiting export potential Correct Answer: b) By promoting cultivation of high-value and rare plants
Explanation: The document emphasizes the potential for horticultural growth through greenhouses. - Which benefit of greenhouses supports market responsiveness?
a) Reduced water usage
b) Year-round crop production to meet demand
c) Increased pest incidence
d) Higher labor requirements Correct Answer: b) Year-round crop production to meet demand
Explanation: Continuous production allows greenhouses to meet market needs consistently. - What is the approximate increase in the area under greenhouse cultivation in India over the last decade from the 20th century?
a) 5%
b) 10%
c) 15%
d) 20% Correct Answer: b) 10%
Explanation: The document suggests a 10% increase in area since the end of the 20th century. - Which of the following is a potential use of greenhouses beyond crop production?
a) Livestock rearing
b) Solar drying of farm produce
c) Soil reclamation
d) Water purification Correct Answer: b) Solar drying of farm produce
Explanation: Greenhouses can be used for solar drying, as mentioned in the document. - What is a key advantage of greenhouse cultivation in inclement climates?
a) Increased exposure to weather
b) Protection from adverse conditions
c) Reduced crop quality
d) Higher energy costs Correct Answer: b) Protection from adverse conditions
Explanation: Greenhouses shield crops from harsh weather, enabling cultivation in tough climates. - Which country has practiced horticulture under glass for over a century?
a) China
b) Israel
c) Holland
d) India Correct Answer: c) Holland
Explanation: Holland, along with England, has a long history of greenhouse horticulture. - What is the main reason for the success of nurseries in greenhouses?
a) Reduced sunlight exposure
b) Controlled environment for seed and vegetative propagation
c) Increased pest exposure
d) Higher water consumption Correct Answer: b) Controlled environment for seed and vegetative propagation
Explanation: The controlled setting ensures successful nursery development. - Which of the following is a characteristic of greenhouse-grown produce?
a) Shorter shelf life
b) Improved quality and quantity
c) Increased pest damage
d) Reduced market value Correct Answer: b) Improved quality and quantity
Explanation: Greenhouses enhance both the quality and yield of crops. - What is a key factor in the commercial success of greenhouse cultivation?
a) Low initial investment
b) Production of high-value crops
c) Increased labor dependency
d) Reduced environmental control Correct Answer: b) Production of high-value crops
Explanation: High-value crops like flowers and medicinal plants drive profitability. - Which Indian state had 5,730.23 hectares under protected cultivation by 2012?
a) Andhra Pradesh
b) Maharashtra
c) Tamil Nadu
d) Punjab Correct Answer: b) Maharashtra
Explanation: Maharashtra led with 5,730.23 hectares, as per the document. - How does greenhouse cultivation optimize input use?
a) By increasing fertilizer application
b) By controlling environmental factors for efficiency
c) By reducing crop diversity
d) By enhancing natural rainfall dependency Correct Answer: b) By controlling environmental factors for efficiency
Explanation: Controlled conditions ensure efficient use of water, nutrients, and other inputs. - What is the primary benefit of greenhouse cultivation for off-season crops?
a) Reduced quality
b) Ability to meet market demands year-round
c) Increased pest incidence
d) Higher water usage Correct Answer: b) Ability to meet market demands year-round
Explanation: Off-season production meets consumer demand continuously. - Which of the following is a limitation mitigated by greenhouse technology?
a) Seasonal crop production
b) High labor availability
c) Excess rainfall
d) Low sunlight exposure Correct Answer: a) Seasonal crop production
Explanation: Greenhouses enable year-round cultivation, overcoming seasonal limits. - What is the significance of polyhouses in Telangana’s agriculture?
a) They reduce crop value
b) They contribute 31% to vegetable and flower crop value
c) They increase water consumption
d) They limit export potential Correct Answer: b) They contribute 31% to vegetable and flower crop value
Explanation: Polyhouses significantly boost Telangana’s crop value, per the document. - Which factor does NOT contribute to the scope of greenhouses in India?
a) Export potential
b) Urban demand
c) Reduced crop variety
d) Plant propagation Correct Answer: c) Reduced crop variety
Explanation: Greenhouses expand crop options, not reduce them, enhancing scope. - What is a key environmental benefit of greenhouse cultivation?
a) Increased pesticide use
b) Optimized water and resource use
c) Higher soil degradation
d) Reduced biodiversity Correct Answer: b) Optimized water and resource use
Explanation: Greenhouses minimize resource waste, benefiting the environment. - Which of the following is a historical milestone in India’s protected cultivation?
a) Introduction of drip irrigation
b) Indo-Israel project in 1998
c) Establishment of CPCT in 1980
d) China’s influence in the 1990s Correct Answer: b) Indo-Israel project in 1998
Explanation: This project marked the advent of hi-tech protected cultivation in India. - What is the main advantage of shade houses in Telangana?
a) Increased pest control
b) Suitability for specific agro-climatic conditions
c) Reduced water efficiency
d) Higher labor costs Correct Answer: b) Suitability for specific agro-climatic conditions
Explanation: Shade houses are listed as appropriate for Telangana’s climate. - How does greenhouse cultivation support sustainable agriculture?
a) By increasing chemical inputs
b) By minimizing environmental impact through resource optimization
c) By reducing crop yields
d) By enhancing soil erosion Correct Answer: b) By minimizing environmental impact through resource optimization
Explanation: Efficient resource use aligns with sustainability goals. - Which of the following is a benefit of greenhouse cultivation in water-scarce regions?
a) Increased water consumption
b) Ability to produce crops with reduced water use
c) Higher pest incidence
d) Reduced crop quality Correct Answer: b) Ability to produce crops with reduced water use
Explanation: Greenhouses optimize water, as seen in Israel’s example. - What is the primary material advantage of plastic over glass in greenhouses?
a) Higher durability
b) Lower cost and flexibility
c) Increased light diffusion
d) Reduced environmental control Correct Answer: b) Lower cost and flexibility
Explanation: Plastic is favored for its affordability and adaptability. - Which of the following is a key indicator of greenhouse cultivation growth in India?
a) Decline in urban demand
b) Expansion in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat
c) Reduced export markets
d) Increased reliance on traditional farming Correct Answer: b) Expansion in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat
Explanation: These states show significant growth in protected cultivation area. - What is the main purpose of net houses in protected cultivation?
a) To increase sunlight exposure
b) To provide partial environmental control and pest protection
c) To eliminate irrigation needs
d) To reduce crop quality Correct Answer: b) To provide partial environmental control and pest protection
Explanation: Net houses offer a balance of control and protection. - Which crop benefits from greenhouse cultivation for its long shelf life?
a) Wheat
b) Flowers like roses
c) Rice
d) Sugarcane Correct Answer: b) Flowers like roses
Explanation: Flowers benefit from controlled conditions, extending shelf life. - What is a key economic driver for greenhouse adoption in India?
a) Reduced crop yields
b) High export potential for horticultural produce
c) Increased pest management costs
d) Lower quality produce Correct Answer: b) High export potential for horticultural produce
Explanation: Export demand, such as for cut flowers, encourages greenhouse use. - Which of the following is a feature of greenhouse technology in biotechnology?
a) Increased soil dependency
b) Controlled conditions for hydroponics and tissue culture
c) Reduced plant propagation
d) Higher pest exposure Correct Answer: b) Controlled conditions for hydroponics and tissue culture
Explanation: Greenhouses support advanced techniques like hydroponics and tissue culture. - What is the significance of the 40-50% water reduction in greenhouses?
a) Increased irrigation needs
b) Enhanced sustainability in water-scarce areas
c) Reduced crop growth
d) Higher labor costs Correct Answer: b) Enhanced sustainability in water-scarce areas
Explanation: Water savings make greenhouses viable in dry regions. - Which of the following is a challenge addressed by the CPCT?
a) Lack of crop variety
b) High costs of greenhouse structures
c) Excess water availability
d) Reduced urban demand Correct Answer: b) High costs of greenhouse structures
Explanation: The CPCT has worked to reduce costs, making greenhouses more accessible. - What is a key benefit of greenhouse cultivation for Telangana’s farmers?
a) Increased pest incidence
b) Significant contribution to vegetable and flower crop value
c) Reduced export potential
d) Higher water consumption Correct Answer: b) Significant contribution to vegetable and flower crop value
Explanation: Polyhouses contribute 31% to crop value in Telangana. - Which of the following is a future prospect for greenhouse cultivation?
a) Reduced technological integration
b) Expansion into uncultivable lands
c) Increased reliance on open-field methods
d) Lower quality crop production Correct Answer: b) Expansion into uncultivable lands
Explanation: The document suggests potential growth in problematic zones. - What is the primary advantage of drip irrigation in Telangana’s polyhouses?
a) Increased water usage
b) Efficient water delivery to 90% of mulched crops
c) Reduced crop yields
d) Higher pest incidence Correct Answer: b) Efficient water delivery to 90% of mulched crops
Explanation: Drip irrigation enhances water efficiency for mulched crops. - Why are greenhouses considered a policy priority in Indian agriculture?
a) They reduce crop diversity
b) They address food and nutritional needs through controlled cultivation
c) They increase dependency on rainfall
d) They limit export potential Correct Answer: b) They address food and nutritional needs through controlled cultivation
Explanation: Greenhouses meet quality and quantity demands, making them a policy focus.