Question

Which of the following is NOT a cotton growing region?

• A. Parts of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan
• B. Gujarat and Maharashtra
• C. Plateaus of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
• D. West Bengal and Assam

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Cotton is a significant crop that requires specific climatic and soil conditions for optimal growth. When considering the suitable regions for cotton cultivation, these factors are important: 

• Climatic Conditions: Cotton thrives in warm climates with well-defined seasons. It requires temperatures between 21°C to 30°C and a dry harvest period.
• Soil Requirements: Black soils, often referred to as Regur soils, are ideal due to their moisture retention properties and nutrient content. Alluvial soils can also support cotton growth.

Let's evaluate the provided options based on these criteria:

• Parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan: These regions experience warm temperatures and have suitable soil conditions for growing cotton.
• Gujarat and Maharashtra: Known for extensive cotton cultivation, these states have the required black soils and climatic conditions.
• Plateaus of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu: The Deccan Plateau region provides the right environmental conditions for cotton farming.
• West Bengal and Assam: These regions have a tropical climate with high humidity and significant rainfall, which isn't favorable for cotton cultivation. The predominant soils in these areas are alluvial and are better suited for crops like rice and jute.

Given the climatic and soil requirements for cotton, West Bengal and Assam are NOT typical cotton-growing regions.

Thus, the correct answer is: West Bengal and Assam

Answer 2

West Bengal and Assam are not typically considered major cotton-growing regions in India. Cotton cultivation requires specific climatic conditions, including warm temperatures and a relatively dry environment, which are not as prevalent in these areas. Instead, cotton is primarily grown in the drier and more arid regions of the country.

The states of Punjab, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and the Deccan Plateau are better suited for cotton cultivation due to their warmer climates and lower rainfall. These areas benefit from irrigation systems that support cotton farming and allow for higher yields.

In contrast, West Bengal and Assam have wetter climates and are better known for growing other crops, such as rice, tea, and jute. While cotton can be cultivated in these states on a small scale, the climatic conditions are not as favorable for large-scale production compared to other regions in India.

Overall, India's cotton cultivation is concentrated in the western and central parts of the country, where the climate and soil conditions are more suitable for this crop. The combination of irrigation, crop rotation, and modern farming techniques in these regions has allowed cotton production to thrive, making India one of the largest cotton producers in the world.