Previous Year Question

At the time of the question, Madhya Pradesh was the largest producer of soybean in India. In 2010-11, Madhya Pradesh contributed more than 50% of both the total area and production of soybean in the country. Maharashtra was the next major producing state.

Soybean is an important oilseed as well as a leguminous crop. Its cultivation is particularly widespread in the Malwa region and adjoining areas of Madhya Pradesh. Rainfed agriculture, suitable temperatures and the extensive presence of deep black soils provide favourable conditions for soybean cultivation in the state.

Soybean is primarily used for the production of edible oil, while the soybean meal remaining after oil extraction is rich in protein and is extensively used in animal and poultry feed.