Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements with reference to cotton crops:
Cotton is mostly a Kharif crop.
Cotton crop requires moderate amounts of rainfall varying between 50–75 cm annually.
Which of the above statements is/are correct? Select the correct answer from the codes given below:
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Only 1
Only 2
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Statement 1 is correct. In India, cotton is grown mainly as a Kharif crop. Kharif crops are generally sown around the onset of the monsoon, and most of the cotton area also falls under this crop season.
Statement 2 is also correct. Moderate rainfall is considered favourable for cotton. The 50–75 cm annual rainfall given in the question represents a suitable rainfall condition for the crop. Excessive rainfall and waterlogging are unfavourable for cotton, while irrigation may be required in areas receiving lower rainfall.
Cotton requires a long frost-free period, adequate sunshine and well-drained soils. The Black Soil or Regur Soil of the Deccan Plateau is considered particularly suitable for cotton because of its moisture-retaining capacity.