Agriculture and Food Security Quiz

Improving Food Resources

• Global population growth necessitates increased food production.
• Malnutrition remains a significant concern for many.
• Sustainable agriculture is key, emphasizing resource optimization and minimizing environmental impact.

Crop Improvement

• Plant breeding enhances crop quality and yield.
• Desirable traits include higher yield, improved quality, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, shorter maturity, and wider adaptability.
• Hybridisation combines desirable traits from different parental plants.
• Genetic engineering (GM crops) introduces beneficial genes, though debated for safety and environmental impact.
• Government and research initiatives develop and disseminate improved crop varieties.

Crop Production Management

• Nutrient management is vital for plant growth.
  • Manures (compost, vermicompost, green manure) provide organic nutrients.
  • Fertilizers (chemicals) provide essential nutrients but can have negative environmental effects if overused.
• Efficient water management is crucial for crop irrigation.
  • Modern techniques (drip and sprinkler irrigation) conserve water.
• Cropping patterns like mixed cropping, intercropping, and crop rotation optimize yield and manage pest problems.
• Pest and disease control employs diverse strategies.
  • Pesticides can harm the environment and promote pesticide resistance.
  • Biopesticides offer natural pest control alternatives.
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) combines various pest control approaches.
• Proper storage prevents post-harvest losses due to pests and spoilage.

Animal Husbandry

• Animal husbandry encompasses breeding, feeding, and caring for animals.
  • Cattle farming includes dairy (high milk-producing) and draught (work animals) breeds.
  • Poultry farming focuses on breeds for eggs (layers) or meat (broilers).
  • Fish production includes capture fisheries and aquaculture (pond/sea).
  • Bee-keeping (apiculture) is an integral part.
• Animal breeding aims to improve traits like milk production, meat quality, and disease resistance.
• Nutritional feed and disease control are crucial for animal productivity and health.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices

• Organic farming avoids chemical inputs, prioritizing natural methods.
• Integrated farming systems combine multiple agricultural practices (crops, livestock, fish).
• Efficient water management aids in irrigation using practices like drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting.
• Soil health management through practices like crop rotation and manure use enhances soil fertility.

Conclusion

• Sustainable food production strategies are essential for global food security.
• A balanced approach to improving yields and maintaining environmental health is vital.