Previous Year Question
In India the largest area under rice cultivation lies in the State of
Andhra Pradesh
Orissa
Uttar Pradesh
West Bengal
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
The question asks about the area under rice cultivation, not about rice production. These two measures must be distinguished.
According to historical Ministry of Agriculture data, Uttar Pradesh had the largest share of India's rice acreage during the relevant period. An analysis covering 2010-11 to 2012-13 places Uttar Pradesh's share at about 13.0%, followed by West Bengal at about 12.4%, Odisha at 9.8% and Andhra Pradesh at 9.5%.
Therefore, a state leading in rice production does not necessarily have the largest cultivated area. Area and production are different indicators, because production depends on both cultivated area and yield.
Hence, when the question asks for the largest area under rice cultivation, the correct answer is Uttar Pradesh.