Question

Why is step farming common in hills?

Answer 1

Hint:Step farming is also known as terrace farming. It is done by cutting steps in the hill slopes. Crops like tea, coffee are grown on these slopes.

 Complete answer:
Steep hill slopes are not at all favourable for agricultural practices. People living in these sloppy mountains convert this complex land to agricultural land by cutting terraces or steps in the slopes of the hilly areas. This makes it suitable for carrying out agricultural practices.
Terrace farming or step farming is commonly done on the slopes of the hills. It is defined as the farming in which the slopes of the hills or mountains are cut in the form of steps so that the farmer gets enough space for cultivating various kinds of crops. These terraces provide support for the irrigation of crops such as rice, barley.
The advantages of terrace farming make it a regular practice in the hills. The advantages are-
>It allows the use of land which could not be used for conventional farming.
>It helps to reduce soil erosion. It prevents heavy rainfall from running down from the slopes.
>It also helps to reduce flooding in the valley. It slows down the momentum of water in the slopes and thus the water can be used for irrigation purposes.

Additional Information: Many food crops as well as cash crops can be grown through this kind of farming. In India mainly tea and coffee are grown through these farming methods in the hilly slope of Tamil Nadu and Assam

Note: Step farming is done in hilly slopes because it helps in preventing soil erosion. It also helps in preventing the runoff of water which can bring floods in the valley or foot hills.