What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative?
- Seed cost is very low in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
- Drip irrigation can be practiced very effectively in this.
- There is no application of chemical/inorganic fertilizers at all in this.
- The scope for intercropping is more in this compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
Smart Elimination
Statement 3 says that in this method, there is no application of chemical fertilizers "at all". In agriculture and science, it is almost impossible to claim 0% usage. Extreme statements like "at all" are usually wrong. If you remove Statement 3, only Option (B) remains.
Potential Trap
Extreme Words: Statement 3 uses the phrase 'no application... at all'. In agriculture, absolute zero chemical use is a feature of 'Organic Farming' or 'ZBNF', but SSI primarily focuses on efficiency and reduction, not necessarily a total ban.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: BThe correct answer is Option B.
Statement 1 is Correct: The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) uses 'bud chips' (using only a small part of the cane) instead of the conventional method of using large cane setts. This drastically reduces the quantity of seeds required, lowering the seed cost.
Statement 2 is Correct: SSI emphasizes water efficiency. It supports and is very effective with drip irrigation, aiming to reduce water consumption by up to 40-70%.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: While SSI advocates the use of organic manure and bio-fertilizers to improve soil health, it does not strictly forbid the application of chemical fertilizers 'at all'. It promotes a balanced approach or reduction, unlike strict organic farming.
Statement 4 is Correct: SSI involves wider spacing between plants. This extra space allows for intercropping with crops like wheat, potato, or pulses, which is difficult in the conventional narrow-spacing method.
Value Addition
- SSI Principles: Less seed, less water, fewer fertilizers, and more interaction (intercropping).
- Water Crisis: Sugarcane is a water-guzzling crop; SSI is promoted in states like Maharashtra to handle drought stress.
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Foundational question based on core concepts.