Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 24

Farmers and peasants were depended on what for their survival.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the primary source of water for agriculture in India.

Correct Answer: A) Monsoon season.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

In India, the monsoon season plays a pivotal role in the agricultural sector, which is a significant part of the country's economy and the livelihood of a large portion of the population. The monsoon season typically occurs between June and September, bringing much-needed rainfall to the agricultural lands across the country. This rainfall is crucial for the cultivation of crops such as rice, wheat, and various other staples that form the backbone of the Indian diet and economy.

The dependency of farmers and peasants on the monsoon season is deeply rooted in the agricultural practices and the geography of India. The country's agricultural system is largely rain-fed, meaning that the majority of the water used for irrigation comes directly from rainfall. In the absence of adequate rainfall, the agricultural output can be severely impacted, leading to food shortages and economic distress.

The monsoon season is not only important for the immediate water needs of crops but also for recharging groundwater levels, which are crucial for irrigation during the dry seasons. The reliability and timing of the monsoon are critical factors that determine the success of the agricultural cycle. Farmers plan their planting and harvesting schedules around the expected arrival and duration of the monsoon season.

While other seasons such as summer, winter, and autumn do play roles in the agricultural calendar, they do not provide the same level of water supply that the monsoon season does. The summer season is typically very dry and hot, making it unsuitable for most agricultural activities without artificial irrigation. The winter season, while cooler, does not provide the same volume of rainfall as the monsoon, and the autumn season is generally a transition period with less predictable rainfall patterns.

Therefore, the monsoon season is the primary source of water for agriculture in India, and farmers and peasants depend on it for their survival and the sustenance of their livelihoods. Understanding the importance of the monsoon season is crucial for comprehending the agricultural and economic dynamics of India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The monsoon season is critical for farmers and peasants in India as it provides the necessary rainfall for crop cultivation and irrigation. The agricultural practices in India are heavily dependent on the monsoon season for water supply.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The summer season in India is typically characterized by high temperatures and low rainfall, making it unsuitable for providing the water needed for agriculture. Farmers and peasants cannot depend on the summer season for their survival.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The winter season in India generally has less rainfall compared to the monsoon season. While some regions may receive some precipitation, it is not sufficient to support the agricultural needs of farmers and peasants.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The autumn season in India does not provide the significant rainfall required for agriculture. Farmers and peasants cannot rely on the autumn season for their water needs and survival.

Mnemonic: M - Monsoon, M - Main, M - Moisture

Back to Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 24 – Practice all questions