Life of Farmers(Farming Techniques)Sainik School Exam Class 6 GK Questions Answers, Notes, Study Material

Explore the questions answers of essential farming techniques and agricultural practices with this detailed GK guide for AISSEE Class 6. Best study Material and notes for Sainik School Entrance Exam preparation by Anand Classes. Farming is the backbone of India’s economy. Farmers play a crucial role in producing food for the country using different farming techniques. Below are some important questions and answers related to the life of farmers and farming techniques that will help students preparing for the All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) Class 6 GK section.

Life of Farmers (Farming Techniques) – AISSEE Class 6 GK Question-Answer Format

Q1: What are the main types of farming in India?

A: The main types of farming in India are:

1. Subsistence Farming – Farmers grow food mainly for their own consumption with little surplus for sale.
2. Commercial Farming – Large-scale farming where crops and livestock are produced for sale and profit.
3. Mixed Farming – A combination of crop cultivation and animal husbandry.
4. Plantation Farming – Large-scale production of crops like tea, coffee, and rubber for commercial purposes.
5. Organic Farming – Farming without the use of synthetic chemicals, using natural fertilizers and biological pest control.

Q2: What is subsistence farming?

A: Subsistence farming is a method of farming where the primary goal is to grow enough food for the farmer’s family. It is mostly practiced in rural areas with small landholdings and minimal use of technology.

Q3: What is commercial farming?

A: Commercial farming involves large-scale agricultural production aimed at selling produce in markets. It includes mechanized farming, use of high-yield seeds, fertilizers, and modern irrigation techniques to maximize production.

Q4: Name some modern farming techniques used by farmers.

A: Farmers use various modern techniques to increase crop yield and efficiency:

1. Use of High-Yield Variety (HYV) Seeds – These seeds produce more crops compared to traditional ones.
2. Drip Irrigation – A water-saving technique where water is supplied directly to plant roots.
3. Crop Rotation – Changing crops in a field each season to maintain soil fertility.
4. Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides – Helps in increasing crop growth and protecting crops from pests.
5. Mechanization – Use of tractors, harvesters, and plows to reduce manual labor.
6. Greenhouse Farming – Growing crops under controlled conditions to ensure year-round production.

Q5: What is organic farming?

A: Organic farming is a sustainable method of farming that avoids synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It focuses on natural ways like composting, crop rotation, and biological pest control to maintain soil health and produce healthy food.

Q6: Why is crop rotation important in farming?

A: Crop rotation is the practice of growing different types of crops in the same field in sequential seasons. It is important because:

1. It improves soil fertility by replenishing essential nutrients.
2. It prevents soil erosion and maintains soil structure.
3. It reduces the risk of pests and plant diseases.
4. It increases crop yield by maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Q7: What is mixed farming?

A: Mixed farming is an agricultural system that combines crop cultivation with livestock farming. Farmers grow crops and rear animals on the same farm, which helps in:

1. Efficient utilization of farm resources.
2. Better income opportunities for farmers.
3. Natural manure production, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Q8: What are some traditional farming tools used by Indian farmers?

A: Indian farmers have used traditional tools for centuries, including:

1. Plough – Used to prepare the soil for sowing seeds.
2. Sickle – A curved blade tool used for harvesting crops and cutting grass.
3. Hoe – Used for removing weeds and breaking up soil.
4. Bullock Cart – Traditionally used for transporting goods and plowing fields.
5. Spade – A digging tool used for soil preparation and planting.

Q9: What are the benefits of using modern machinery in farming?

A: Modern machinery has transformed agriculture by:

1. Increasing Productivity – Machines allow faster and more efficient farming.
2. Reducing Labor Efforts – Mechanized equipment reduces the need for manual labor.
3. Saving Time – Machines can perform tasks much faster than human labor.
4. Improving Efficiency – Precision farming techniques help optimize resource use.

Q10: What are some government schemes introduced to support farmers?

A: The Indian government has introduced various schemes to support farmers, including:

1. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) – Provides direct income support to farmers.
2. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) – A crop insurance scheme to protect farmers from losses.
3. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) – Provides easy access to credit for farmers.
4. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) – Aims at improving agricultural productivity and infrastructure.

Q11: What is terrace farming?

A: Terrace farming is a method of growing crops on stepped levels or terraces built into hill slopes. This helps to reduce soil erosion and makes farming possible in hilly areas.

Q12: What is shifting cultivation?

A: Shifting cultivation is a farming technique where land is cleared by cutting and burning trees (slash-and-burn method), crops are grown for a few years, and then the land is abandoned for fertility to be restored naturally.

Q13: What is the Green Revolution?

A: The Green Revolution refers to the period when modern agricultural techniques, such as high-yield variety seeds, chemical fertilizers, and improved irrigation, were introduced to increase food production in India.

Q14: What are cash crops?

A: Cash crops are crops grown primarily for sale rather than for personal consumption. Examples include cotton, sugarcane, coffee, and rubber.

Q15: What is dryland farming?

A: Dryland farming is a method of farming in regions with low rainfall where farmers use drought-resistant crops and moisture conservation techniques to grow crops without irrigation.

Q16: What is animal husbandry?

A: Animal husbandry is the practice of breeding and raising livestock such as cows, buffaloes, sheep, goats, and poultry for milk, meat, wool, and eggs.

Q17: What is hydroponic farming?

A: Hydroponic farming is a technique of growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. This method is efficient, conserves water, and is widely used in urban farming.

Q18: What is agroforestry?

A: Agroforestry is a farming system that combines agriculture and tree planting. It helps in:

1. Soil conservation
2. Providing shade and shelter to crops
3. Enhancing biodiversity
4. Improving farm productivity

Q19: What is vertical farming?

A: Vertical farming is a modern technique where crops are grown in stacked layers, often indoors, using artificial lighting and controlled environments. It is useful for urban areas with limited land availability.

Q20: What is precision farming?

A: Precision farming is a farming method that uses technology such as GPS, sensors, and drones to monitor and optimize agricultural practices. It helps in improving efficiency and reducing resource wastage.

Q21: What is permaculture farming?

A: Permaculture farming is a sustainable farming approach that mimics natural ecosystems. It focuses on:

1. Using renewable resources
2. Soil regeneration
3. Water conservation
4. Self-sustaining agricultural practices

Q22: What is contract farming?

A: Contract farming is an agreement between farmers and companies where farmers grow crops as per the company’s requirements in exchange for guaranteed purchase and price assurance.

Q23: What are genetically modified (GM) crops?

A: Genetically Modified (GM) crops are plants whose DNA has been altered to improve yield, resistance to pests, and adaptability to harsh environmental conditions. Examples include BT Cotton and Golden Rice.

Q24: What is zero tillage farming?

A: Zero tillage farming is a farming technique where the soil is not plowed before planting, which helps in retaining soil moisture, preventing erosion, and improving soil fertility.

Q25: What is sustainable farming?

A: Sustainable farming involves using agricultural methods that do not harm the environment, ensure long-term soil health, and conserve water. It includes organic farming, crop rotation, and integrated pest management.

Q26: What is polyculture farming?

A: Polyculture farming is the practice of growing multiple crops in the same area at the same time. This technique improves biodiversity, reduces pests, and enhances soil fertility.

Q27: What is aquaponics farming?

A: Aquaponics farming is a combination of aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants without soil). The waste produced by fish provides nutrients for plants, and the plants help filter the water for the fish.

Q28: What is intercropping?

A: Intercropping is the practice of growing two or more different crops together in the same field to maximize land use and improve soil health. Example: Growing maize and beans together.

Q29: What is alley cropping?

A: Alley cropping is a farming method where crops are grown between rows of trees or shrubs. The trees provide shade, prevent soil erosion, and improve soil nutrients.

Q30: What is biofertilizer?

A: Biofertilizers are natural fertilizers made from microorganisms like bacteria and fungi that help improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and decomposing organic matter.

Q31: What is rainwater harvesting in farming?

A: Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater for agricultural use. It helps farmers irrigate crops during dry seasons and reduces dependency on groundwater.

Q32: What is agroecology?

A: Agroecology is a farming approach that integrates ecological principles into agricultural systems to create sustainable and resilient food production methods.

Q33: What is companion planting?

A: Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together to benefit each other. Example: Planting marigolds near tomatoes helps repel harmful insects.

Q34: What is regenerative agriculture?

A: Regenerative agriculture is a method that focuses on restoring soil health, increasing biodiversity, and improving water retention through practices like cover cropping and no-till farming.

Q35: What is watershed management in farming?

A: Watershed management involves the conservation and efficient use of water resources in a specific area to ensure sustainable agriculture and prevent soil erosion.

Q36: What is integrated farming?

A: Integrated farming is a farming system that combines crops, livestock, fisheries, and forestry to maximize resource utilization and minimize waste.

Q37: What is organic manure?

A: Organic manure is a natural fertilizer made from decomposed plant and animal waste, such as compost, cow dung, and green manure, which enriches the soil with nutrients.

Q38: What is silviculture?

A: Silviculture is the practice of growing and managing forests for timber, fuel, and ecological benefits such as soil conservation and carbon sequestration.

Q39: What is floriculture?

A: Floriculture is the cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants for commercial purposes, such as landscaping, decoration, and perfume production.

Q40: What is horticulture?

A: Horticulture is the branch of agriculture that focuses on growing fruits, vegetables, nuts, and ornamental plants for food and commercial use.

Q41: What is pisciculture?

A: Pisciculture, also known as fish farming, is the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish in controlled environments such as ponds, tanks, or enclosures.

Q42: What is sericulture?

A: Sericulture is the cultivation of silkworms to produce silk. It involves feeding silkworms mulberry leaves and harvesting silk threads from their cocoons.

Q43: What is apiculture?

A: Apiculture, also called beekeeping, is the practice of rearing honeybees for honey production, beeswax, and pollination of crops.

Q44: What is terrace farming?

A: Terrace farming is a method of cultivating crops on stepped levels or terraces built into hilly slopes to prevent soil erosion and retain water.

Q45: What is mulching?

A: Mulching is the process of covering the soil with organic or inorganic materials such as straw, leaves, or plastic to conserve moisture, prevent weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.

Q46: What is green manure?

A: Green manure refers to crops that are grown and plowed back into the soil to improve its fertility by adding organic matter and nitrogen.

Q47: What is strip cropping?

A: Strip cropping is the practice of growing different crops in alternating strips along the land contour to prevent soil erosion and enhance soil fertility.

Q48: What is contour plowing?

A: Contour plowing is a farming method where plowing is done along the natural contour lines of a slope to reduce soil erosion and water runoff.

Q49: What is vermicomposting?

A: Vermicomposting is the process of using earthworms to decompose organic waste into nutrient-rich compost that improves soil fertility.

Q50: What is hydroseeding?

A: Hydroseeding is a planting technique where a mixture of seeds, mulch, water, and fertilizers is sprayed over land to promote fast and uniform plant growth, often used for reforestation and erosion control.

Q51: What is agroforestry?

A: Agroforestry is a farming system that combines agriculture and forestry to create more sustainable land-use practices. Trees and crops are grown together to improve soil fertility and biodiversity.

Q52: What is ratooning?

A: Ratooning is an agricultural practice where the crop is harvested but the roots and lower parts of the plant are left intact to grow new shoots for the next season. It is commonly used in sugarcane farming.

Q53: What is leguminous cropping?

A: Leguminous cropping refers to the cultivation of legume plants like peas, beans, and lentils, which help in fixing nitrogen in the soil and improving soil fertility.

Q54: What is pastoral farming?

A: Pastoral farming is a type of agriculture focused on the rearing of livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats for milk, meat, and wool production.

Q55: What is waterlogging in agriculture?

A: Waterlogging occurs when excess water accumulates in the soil, reducing oxygen availability for plant roots and leading to poor crop growth or crop failure.

Q56: What is saline soil?

A: Saline soil contains a high amount of soluble salts, making it unsuitable for crop cultivation. It can be reclaimed by proper drainage, gypsum application, and salt-tolerant crops.

Q57: What is bio-pesticide?

A: Bio-pesticides are natural pesticides derived from living organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and plants. They help in controlling pests with minimal harm to the environment.

Q58: What is mixed cropping?

A: Mixed cropping is the practice of growing two or more crops together in the same field to maximize land use, improve yield, and reduce the risk of crop failure.

Q59: What is permaculture?

A: Permaculture is a sustainable farming approach that mimics natural ecosystems to create self-sufficient agricultural systems that require minimal external inputs.

Q60: What is shifting cultivation?

A: Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn farming, is a traditional farming method where a patch of land is cultivated, then abandoned to allow natural regeneration before being used again.

Q61: What is alley cropping?

A: Alley cropping is an agroforestry practice where crops are grown between rows of trees or shrubs to improve soil fertility, reduce erosion, and provide shade.

Q62: What is crop diversification?

A: Crop diversification is the practice of growing different types of crops in the same area to increase yield stability, reduce pests, and improve soil health.

Q63: What is water conservation farming?

A: Water conservation farming includes techniques like rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and mulching to minimize water wastage and improve irrigation efficiency.

Q64: What is the importance of soil testing in farming?

A: Soil testing helps farmers determine the nutrient content, pH level, and fertility of the soil, allowing them to apply the right fertilizers and improve crop productivity.

Q65: What is genetic modification in agriculture?

A: Genetic modification (GM) is the process of altering the DNA of crops to enhance their resistance to pests, improve nutritional value, and increase yield.

Q66: What is organic pest control?

A: Organic pest control involves using natural predators, biological pesticides, and eco-friendly methods instead of chemical pesticides to protect crops from pests.

Q67: What is precision agriculture?

A: Precision agriculture is a modern farming technique that uses GPS, sensors, and data analytics to optimize planting, irrigation, and harvesting for maximum efficiency.

Q68: What is aquaponics?

A: Aquaponics is a combination of aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants without soil) in a sustainable system where fish waste provides nutrients for plants.

Q69: What is the role of earthworms in farming?

A: Earthworms help in improving soil aeration, nutrient cycling, and composting organic matter, making the soil fertile for better plant growth.

Q70: What is silage in animal farming?

A: Silage is fermented, high-moisture fodder stored for livestock feeding, especially during dry seasons when fresh fodder is scarce.

Q71: What is vertical farming?

A: Vertical farming is a method of growing crops in stacked layers, often using hydroponics or aeroponics, to maximize space and reduce land usage.

Q72: What is terrace farming?

A: Terrace farming is a technique used in hilly areas where land is cut into steps or terraces to prevent soil erosion and retain water for farming.

Q73: What is monoculture farming?

A: Monoculture farming is the practice of growing a single crop species over a large area, which can increase yield but also make crops more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Q74: What is polyhouse farming?

A: Polyhouse farming involves growing crops in a controlled environment inside a structure covered with polyethylene sheets, protecting plants from extreme weather conditions.

Q75: What is dryland farming?

A: Dryland farming is a technique used in regions with low rainfall where drought-resistant crops are grown, and water conservation methods are applied.

Q76: What is mixed cropping?

A: Mixed cropping is the practice of growing two or more crops together on the same field to improve soil fertility, increase yield, and reduce crop failure risks.

Q77: What is bio-intensive farming?

A: Bio-intensive farming is a sustainable agricultural method that focuses on organic composting, companion planting, and minimal external inputs to increase productivity.

Q78: What is sustainable agriculture?

A: Sustainable agriculture is a farming method that focuses on long-term environmental health, economic profitability, and social equity by reducing chemical use and conserving resources.

Q79: What is regenerative farming?

A: Regenerative farming is an agricultural approach that aims to restore soil health, increase biodiversity, and improve water retention through organic and conservation techniques.

Q80: What is hydroponics?

A: Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions to provide essential minerals for plant growth.

Q81: What is aeroponics?

A: Aeroponics is a method of growing plants without soil by suspending plant roots in the air and misting them with nutrient-rich water.

Q82: What is agroecology?

A: Agroecology is a farming approach that integrates ecological principles into agriculture to promote sustainable and biodiversity-friendly food production.

Q83: What is conservation tillage?

A: Conservation tillage is a farming method that reduces soil disturbance by limiting plowing, helping to retain moisture, prevent erosion, and improve soil health.

Q84: What is intercropping?

A: Intercropping is the practice of growing two or more crops together in the same field to improve yield, reduce pests, and enhance soil fertility.

Q85: What is agro-tourism?

A: Agro-tourism involves inviting visitors to farms to learn about farming practices, participate in farm activities, and support local agricultural businesses.

Q86: What is green manure?

A: Green manure refers to crops that are grown and then plowed back into the soil to enhance soil fertility by adding organic matter and nutrients.

Q87: What is companion planting?

A: Companion planting is the technique of growing certain plants together to benefit each other, such as repelling pests, improving pollination, or enhancing growth.

Q88: What is watershed management?

A: Watershed management is the conservation and regulation of water resources in a given area to prevent soil erosion, enhance irrigation, and improve water quality.

Q89: What is aquaculture?

A: Aquaculture is the farming of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants in controlled environments such as ponds, rivers, or artificial tanks.

Q90: What is permaculture farming?

A: Permaculture farming is a design system that mimics natural ecosystems to create self-sustaining agricultural systems that require minimal external inputs.

Q91: What is precision farming?

A: Precision farming is an advanced agricultural method that uses technology like GPS, sensors, and data analytics to optimize crop yields and resource usage.

Q92: What is hydroseeding?

A: Hydroseeding is a planting technique where seeds, mulch, and fertilizers are mixed with water and sprayed onto the soil to promote rapid plant growth.

Q93: What is cover cropping?

A: Cover cropping is the practice of growing specific crops like clover or rye to protect and enrich the soil between main crop cycles.

Q94: What is vermicomposting?

A: Vermicomposting is the process of using earthworms to decompose organic waste and produce nutrient-rich compost for soil improvement.

Q95: What is organic certification in farming?

A: Organic certification is an official recognition given to farms that follow organic farming practices without using synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.

Q96: What is zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF)?

A: ZBNF is a farming approach that minimizes external inputs, relying on natural fertilizers and pesticides made from cow dung, urine, and plant extracts.

Q97: What is soil erosion?

A: Soil erosion is the removal of the top layer of fertile soil due to factors like wind, water, and deforestation, leading to reduced agricultural productivity.

Q98: What is silviculture?

A: Silviculture is the practice of cultivating and managing forest trees to improve timber production and forest health.

Q99: What is alley cropping?

A: Alley cropping is a method where crops are planted between rows of trees or shrubs to enhance biodiversity and improve soil fertility.

Q100: What is rotational grazing?

A: Rotational grazing is a livestock management practice where animals are moved between different pasture areas to allow grasslands to recover and maintain soil health.

Do You Know?

• India is the second-largest producer of rice and wheat in the world.
• Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are known as the ‘Food Bowl of India.’
• The Green Revolution in India helped increase food grain production significantly.
• Farmers celebrate festivals like Baisakhi, Pongal, and Makar Sankranti, which are associated with agriculture.

Conclusion

Understanding farming techniques is crucial for students preparing for AISSEE as it enhances their general knowledge. Learning about different farming methods and their impact on food production helps in understanding the importance of agriculture in India.