UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 77
‘The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimetres of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.’ Which one of the following is the crop?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Correct Option: A (Cotton)
Explanation: Cotton is a warm-season subtropical crop damaged by frost; it thrives over a long frost-free period and suits well-drained soils with moderate rainfall.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Correct - the climatic profile and 210 frost-free days point to cotton.
B. Incorrect - Jute prefers hot humid, high-rainfall alluvial floodplains and more abundant moisture.
C. Incorrect - Sugarcane usually requires substantially more water and a longer growing season.
D. Incorrect - Tea prefers humid conditions and high rainfall, not the cited cotton rainfall/soil profile.