A state in India has the following characteristics:
- Its northern part is arid and semi-arid.
- Its central part produces cotton.
- Cultivation of cash crops is predominant over food crops.
Which one of the following states has all of the above characteristics?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2011 Prelims]
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Gujarat
(c) Karnataka
(d) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Gujarat’s soils can be categorized into nine groups: Black soil, Mixed red and black soils, Residual sandy soil, Alluvial soil, Saline soil, Lateritic soil, Hilly soil, Desert soil, and Forest soil. The soil texture in North Gujarat is mainly sandy loam to loam. Due to its arid climate, the state’s north-western region is mostly a desert. Therefore, the first statement is relevant to Gujarat.
- Gujarat is a significant contributor to the country’s cotton production, accounting for approximately 30% of total production. Cotton cultivation is widespread in the state, except for certain parts of Dangs and Valsad districts. This makes the second statement relevant to Gujarat.
- The main crops grown in Gujarat are commercial crops, including cotton, groundnut, milk and milk products, and dates. This demonstrates the significance of agriculture to the state’s economy. Therefore, the third statement is relevant to Gujarat.
Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.
