Question 1655

In the context of the Indian agricultural system, which of the following cash crops is widely recognized by the moniker 'Golden Fibre' and is predominantly cultivated in the high rainfall states of West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam?

Answer

Jute

Why?

The correct answer is Jute Key Points Golden Fibre: Jute is famously known as the 'Golden Fibre' due to its shiny golden color and its high economic value in the textile and packaging industries. Cultivation Regions: It is primarily grown in states that receive high rainfall, which is essential for its growth. These states include West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam. Cropping Category: According to the Indian agricultural system, Jute is classified as a Kharif crop, meaning it is sown during the onset of the monsoon. Additional Information Economic Importance: Jute is a biodegradable and eco-friendly fiber used for making gunny bags, ropes, mats, and various decorative items. Processing: The extraction of jute fiber involves a process called retting, where the stalks are bundled and submerged in slow-running water to soften the tissues. Climate Requirements: It thrives in a hot and humid climate with temperatures ranging between 24 and 35 degrees Celsius and requires alluvial soil found in the floodplains of the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta. Important Points Cotton: While also a fiber crop, Cotton is a different cash crop that requires well-drained soil and is majorly produced in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat. Sugarcane: This is a tropical and subtropical crop primarily used for sugar production, with major cultivation in Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. Tea: Tea is a plantation crop grown in hilly areas of Assam and West Bengal but is not referred to as the 'Golden Fibre'.