Question

Which of the following methods is used in Western and central Himalayas for soil conservation?
A. Terrace farming
B. Strip cropping
C. Shelter belts
D. none of these

Answer 1

Hint: On the steep sides of mountains and hills, this farming is an ancient farming method used to grow crops. To grow crops, flat areas are cut off from a hilly or mountainous landscape. Therefore in the Himalayas, this farming is practiced.

Complete answer:
Option A. Terrace farming: Terrace farming is a method of farming which is constructed on the slopes of hills and mountains using "steps" known as terraces. When it rains, they flow to the next terrace, instead of rain bringing away the soil nutrients and plants down the slope.

Mainly in hilly areas, terrace farming is practiced. In India, it is primarily practiced in hilly regions such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and some northeastern states. In the South, like Andhra Pradesh, it is also practiced. Western and central Himalayas is the hilly region, where terrace farming method is used. hence this is the correct option.

Option B. Strip cropping: Strip cropping is a farming method that involves cultivating a field divided into long narrow strips that are alternated in a system of crop rotation. It is used when a slope is too steep or when soil erosion is not stopped by any alternative process. The dry belts of Karnataka belong to the

Chinnahagari and Upparahalla watersheds of the Chitradurga and Bellary districts. This is where the technique of strip cropping is used. Strip cropping is used when a slope is too steep, whereas Western and central Himalayas come under hilly areas. Hence this is an incorrect option.

Option C. Shelterbelts: Shelterbelts, commonly along fence lines, are rows of trees. They are planted primarily to protect animals or crops from cold winds, but also in hot weather to give shade. Shelter belts also limit wind erosion in regions like Canterbury, where there is a lot of cultivated land.

Shelter belts are an arrangement of trees to stop soil erosion in the coastal, dry zone. The roots of trees bind to the soil and prevent water or wind from removing the top layer of soil. Shelter belts are practiced in the coastal, dry zone, whereas Western and central Himalayas come under hilly areas. Hence this is an incorrect option.

Option D. None of these :We know option A is the correct answer, so this is also an incorrect option.
Terrace farming method is used in Western and central Himalayas for soil conservation.

Hence, Option A. Terrace farming is the correct answer.

Note: Modern farmers are now returning to the terrace farming methods used as a more realistic and sustainable way to raise the most food with the least water thousands of years ago.
Terrace farming also takes advantage of tea growers.