Question

Regarding the cultivation of rice, consider these statements:
I. Rice is a plant that directly absorbs ammonia.
II. Alluvial soil is considered suitable for rice cultivation.
III. Rice is categorized as a Cash Crop.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• A. I and II only
• B. II and III only
• C. I only
• D. I, II, and III

Answer 1

Answer:

A. I and II only

Rice Cultivation Facts

• Nitrogen Absorption: Rice plants primarily absorb nitrogen in the form of ammonium (NH₄⁺). While they can also utilize nitrate (NO₃^-), ammonium is the preferred form, especially in waterlogged paddy fields common for rice cultivation. This makes statement I correct.
• Soil Preference: Alluvial soils are highly suitable for rice cultivation. These soils are rich in nutrients and have good water-holding capacity, which is crucial for rice growth. Regions with extensive river systems, like the Indo-Gangetic Plain in India, are major rice-growing areas due to the abundance of alluvial soil. This confirms statement II is correct.
• Crop Categorization: Rice is predominantly considered a food crop or a cereal crop, not a cash crop. Food crops are grown primarily for consumption, whereas cash crops are grown for commercial purposes and export, like cotton, sugarcane, or tobacco. Therefore, statement III is incorrect.
• Importance in India: Rice is the staple food crop for a majority of the Indian population, particularly in the eastern and southern parts of the country. India is one of the world's largest producers of rice.
• Water Requirement: Rice cultivation requires significant amounts of water, often involving flooded fields (paddy fields). This is why it is mainly grown in regions with ample rainfall or irrigation facilities.