Explanation: Net Sown Area (NSA) is a critical metric in agricultural statistics, representing the area of land that is actually sown or cropped in a given year. It excludes fallow lands and other non-cultivated areas. The percentage of NSA varies significantly across Indian states due to differences in topography, climate, and agricultural practices.
In the context of the question, we are looking for states that have less than 10% of their total area under Net Sown Area. This is a relatively low percentage and indicates that a significant portion of the state's land is not suitable for cultivation. This can be due to various reasons such as rugged terrain, dense forests, or other geographical features that limit agricultural activities.
Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are two such states. Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern part of India, is characterized by its mountainous terrain and dense forests. The state's topography makes a large portion of its land unsuitable for agriculture, leading to a low percentage of Net Sown Area. Similarly, Mizoram, another northeastern state, also has a significant portion of its land covered by forests and hills, which limits the area available for cultivation.
On the other hand, states like Punjab and Haryana, which are known for their agricultural productivity, have a much higher percentage of their total area under Net Sown Area. These states have relatively flat terrain and favorable climatic conditions that support extensive agricultural activities.
West Bengal, while having some areas with challenging topography, still has a higher percentage of its land under cultivation compared to Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram. This is due to the state's diverse agricultural practices and the availability of fertile land in many parts of the state.
In conclusion, the correct answer is Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram, as these states have less than 10% of their total area under Net Sown Area due to their geographical and climatic conditions that limit agricultural land use. Understanding the factors that influence the Net Sown Area in different states is crucial for comprehending the agricultural landscape of India and the challenges faced by various regions in terms of land use and productivity.