Chapter 3: Agriculture

Geography • Class 8

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate12 pages • English

Quick Summary

Agriculture, a primary activity, involves the cultivation of crops and rearing livestock. It is classified into subsistence and commercial farming, each with different practices based on technological advancement, labor, and land use. Major crops include rice, wheat, coffee, and cotton, and these are grown under specific climatic conditions. The chapter also covers topics such as intensive and primitive subsistence farming, nomadic herding, and the economic activities related to agriculture.

Key Topics

  • Types of Farming
  • Subsistence Farming
  • Commercial Farming
  • Major Food Crops
  • Factors Influencing Agriculture
  • Agricultural Development
  • Role of Technology in Agriculture
  • Plantation and Mixed Farming

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the different types of farming practices worldwide.
  • Identify major food and fibre crops and their growth requirements.
  • Explain the economic activities associated with agriculture.
  • Discuss the impact of climatic conditions on farming.
  • Recognize the importance of technology in agricultural development.
  • Analyze the challenges faced by farmers in different regions.

Questions in Chapter

What is agriculture?

Page 30

Name the factors influencing agriculture?

Page 30

What is shifting cultivation? What are its disadvantages?

Page 30

What is plantation agriculture?

Page 30

Name the fibre crops and name the climatic conditions required for their growth.

Page 30

Additional Practice Questions

Describe the process and benefits of organic farming.

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Answer: Organic farming involves using natural inputs like manure and avoids chemical-based fertilizers, promoting environmental health and sustainable agriculture.

Explain the role of technology in modern agriculture.

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Answer: Modern agriculture utilizes technology such as satellite imaging, soil testing, and mechanization to increase efficiency and crop yields, thus supporting large-scale commercial farming.

What are the differences between intensive and subsistence farming?

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Answer: Intensive farming focuses on maximizing output on small land areas using high-efficiency practices and technology, whereas subsistence farming is aimed at self-sufficiency with lower technology use.

How do climatic conditions affect the choice of crop cultivation?

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Answer: Different crops require specific climatic conditions such as temperature, rainfall, and soil types, which dictate suitable regions for optimal growth.

Discuss the significance of crop rotation in agriculture.

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Answer: Crop rotation helps in maintaining soil fertility, reducing pest and disease cycles, and improving crop yields by alternating different types of crops on the same land.