Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2012 Prelims]
(a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops
(b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field
(c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together
(d) None of the above
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- Mixed farming is characterized by the co-rearing of animals and cultivation of crops, which is prevalent in India where animal husbandry is a vital component of agriculture and supports the livelihoods of approximately 55% of the rural population.
- Crop cultivation is the primary agricultural activity in India, providing food grains and raw materials for industries, and engaging two-thirds of the population.
- This type of farming involves more than one agricultural practice on the same agricultural field and is also known as a type of mixed farming.
Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.
