Question

Attempt any four of the following:
(a) What are the economic uses of Linseed? 
(b) Write in short about after care in Potato. 
(c) How the Chilli crop is harvested? 
(d) Write in short storage of Onion. 
(e) Discuss the characteristics of Good Cropping Scheme.
(f) What is the importance of oil seed in Indian Farming?

Hint:

Effective harvesting, proper storage, and thoughtful cropping practices are key to increasing agricultural productivity. Oilseeds and linseed are vital for both food security and industrial applications.

Answer 1

(a) Economic Uses of Linseed:
- Linseed (Linum usitatissimum) is a valuable oilseed crop with several applications.
- It is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, making it important for edible oil production.
- The oil extracted from linseed is commonly used in the manufacturing of paints, varnishes, and printing inks.
- Linseed cake, which is high in protein, serves as animal feed.
- The fiber from linseed plants is utilized in producing linen fabric and paper.
(b) Aftercare in Potato Cultivation:
- Irrigation: Potatoes require regular watering every 7-10 days to support proper tuber development.
- Weeding and Earthing Up: Weeds should be regularly removed, and soil should be heaped around the plants (earthing up) to keep the tubers covered.
- Pest and Disease Control: Fungicides like Mancozeb are used to control late blight (Phytophthora infestans).
- Fertilization: The application of potassium and phosphorus helps in enhancing tuber quality.
(c) Harvesting of Chilli Crop:
- Chilli crops are ready for harvest 90-120 days after transplanting.
- The crop is harvested in stages as chillies mature at different times.
- Fully ripe, red chillies are picked manually.
- The harvested chillies are then sun-dried for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content and increase shelf life.
(d) Short-term Storage of Onions:
- Onions should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry environment to prevent rotting.
- Ideal storage conditions include 50-60% humidity and temperatures around 25°C.
- Onions must be cured before storage by drying them in the shade for 10-15 days.
- Storing onions in mesh bags or ventilated wooden crates helps prevent fungal infections.
(e) Characteristics of a Good Cropping Scheme:
- Maximizes land efficiency through proper crop rotation.
- Ensures high yields and profitability.
- Incorporates soil fertility management with practices like green manuring and organic farming.
- Utilizes intercropping to boost overall production.
- Helps minimize soil erosion and conserve moisture.
(f) Importance of Oilseeds in Indian Farming:
- Oilseed crops like mustard, soybean, and groundnut play a crucial role in India’s agricultural economy.
- These crops provide raw materials for edible oils, biofuels, and various industrial products.
- Some oilseeds, being nitrogen-fixing, contribute to improving soil fertility.
- They generate employment in the processing industries.
- India is one of the top producers of oilseeds, reducing reliance on imported edible oils.