Rice

4.2.1.1 Rice

Description

Quick Overview

Rice is a staple food crop in India, cultivated extensively under varying climatic conditions, particularly as a kharif crop, and plays a significant role in the economy.

Standard

Rice is the second largest produced food crop in India, primarily grown as a kharif crop requiring high temperatures and humidity. The cultivation methods vary from region to region, influenced by geography and the availability of resources. India is a leading producer of rice, which forms the main sustenance for a majority of its population and is vital for various industrial uses.

Detailed

Rice in India

Rice, a crucial staple for over half of India’s population, is primarily cultivated as a kharif crop, requiring substantial warmth (above 25°C) and high levels of humidity, alongside abundant rainfall of over 100 cm or irrigation in drier regions. It's paramount in various parts of the country, including the northeast and coastal zones, benefitting from significant developments in irrigation technologies.

Cultivation and Regions

The cultivation of rice has greatly evolved over time, dictating the introduction of diverse farming techniques influenced by climatic conditions and technological advancements. Key rice-growing states include Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, and the deltaic regions of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Additionally, areas like Punjab and Haryana now cultivate rice utilizing advanced irrigation methods despite traditionally lower rainfall.

Importance of Rice: The agricultural significance of rice extends beyond mere consumption; it acts as a pivotal raw material for numerous industries and has a notable presence in global trade markets.

Key Concepts

  • Rice Cultivation: The methods employed in growing rice, which vary by region.

  • Kharif Crop: Rice is primarily grown as a kharif crop in India, requiring warm and humid conditions.

Memory Aids

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Rice grows with water, warmth, and light, in fields so green, it's a lovely sight.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once there was a farmer in Assam who planted rice every monsoon. With each rain, his fields flourished, bringing nourishment to his family and helping the community thrive.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • R.I.C.E: 'R' for Rain, 'I' for Irrigation, 'C' for Climate, 'E' for Economy.

🎯 Super Acronyms

R.A.C.E

  • 'R' for Rice
  • 'A' for Agriculture
  • 'C' for Climate conditions
  • 'E' for Export.

Examples

  • Farmers in Assam practice three cropping seasons of rice: Aus, Aman, and Boro.

  • Punjab uses modern irrigation techniques to grow rice despite low rainfall conditions.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Kharif Crop

    Definition:

    Crops that are sown with the onset of monsoons in India and harvested in autumn.

  • Term: Irrigation

    Definition:

    The artificial application of water to land to assist in the growing of crops.

  • Term: HighYielding Variety (HYV)

    Definition:

    Crop varieties that have been developed through selective breeding to increase yield.