Agriculture | iexam

Agriculture is the primary sector of the economy and the backbone of many developing nations.
It involves the cultivation of crops and rearing of livestock for food, fiber, and other products.
Subsistence agriculture focuses on growing crops to meet the needs of the farmer's family.
Commercial agriculture is practiced on a larger scale to sell products in markets for profit.
The main types of agriculture include intensive farming, extensive farming, shifting cultivation, and nomadic herding.
Shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn farming, is common in tropical rainforests.
Nomadic herding involves the movement of livestock in search of pasture and water.
Mixed farming combines crop cultivation and livestock rearing on the same farm.
Plantation agriculture is characterized by large-scale production of cash crops like tea, coffee, and rubber.
Green Revolution introduced high-yielding crop varieties, mechanization, and chemical fertilizers, increasing agricultural output.
Terrace farming is practiced on hilly terrains to reduce soil erosion and retain water.
Irrigation plays a crucial role in ensuring water supply for crops in arid and semi-arid regions.
Monoculture refers to the cultivation of a single crop over a large area.
Crop rotation involves growing different crops in succession on the same land to maintain soil fertility.
Agroforestry combines agriculture and forestry to optimize land use.
Factors influencing agriculture include climate, soil, topography, and water availability.
Soil fertility is critical for crop production and is influenced by organic content and nutrient levels.
Major agricultural regions include the prairies, steppe grasslands, and river valleys.
Farming techniques have evolved with the use of modern technology and scientific methods.
Mechanization of agriculture involves the use of machines like tractors, harvesters, and seed drills.
Organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals and focuses on sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Horticulture involves the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Floriculture specializes in flower cultivation, while apiculture focuses on beekeeping.
Fishing and aquaculture supplement agriculture in providing food resources.
Livestock farming includes cattle rearing for milk, meat, and leather production.
Poultry farming contributes to egg and meat production globally.
Dairy farming focuses on milk production and its processing into dairy products.
Developing countries rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture, making them vulnerable to climate change.
In developed countries, precision farming uses GPS and data analytics for efficient farming practices.
GM crops (genetically modified) are engineered to enhance yield, pest resistance, and drought tolerance.
Agriculture contributes significantly to employment and the GDP of many nations.
Major agricultural products include cereals (wheat, rice), pulses, oilseeds, and cash crops.
Agricultural trade forms a significant part of global markets, with crops like coffee, tea, and spices being key exports.
Food security is a critical issue addressed by increasing agricultural productivity and reducing wastage.
Climate change impacts agriculture through altered rainfall patterns, droughts, and temperature changes.
Global initiatives like FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) aim to improve agricultural practices worldwide.
Subsistence farmers are most vulnerable to economic and environmental shocks.
Land degradation and soil erosion are significant challenges for sustainable agriculture.
Government policies like subsidies and minimum support prices support farmers economically.
Agri-business integrates farming with production, processing, and distribution activities.
Efforts like crop insurance aim to protect farmers from losses due to natural disasters.
Agro-climatic zoning helps in identifying suitable crops for specific regions.
Land reform policies aim to address issues of land ownership and distribution.
Food processing industries add value to agricultural produce and generate employment.
Post-harvest technologies help in reducing storage losses and improving food availability.
Agriculture is evolving with trends like vertical farming and urban agriculture.
Efficient use of natural resources is critical for long-term agricultural sustainability.
Globalization has influenced agricultural trade and market dynamics significantly.