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I. Chapter Summary:
This chapter focuses on agriculture as a primary economic activity, explaining its importance in sustaining human life and economies. It explores different types of farming, major crops, and the factors influencing agricultural practices across the world. Students learn about subsistence farming, commercial farming, and plantation agriculture. The chapter also covers the modern methods of farming, technological advancements, and the importance of sustainable agricultural practices. It connects agriculture with livelihood, food security, and the environment.
II. Key Concepts Covered:
Concept | Explanation |
---|---|
Agriculture | The science and art of cultivating soil, growing crops, and rearing animals. |
Types of Farming | Subsistence (for local consumption), Commercial (for sale), Plantation (mono-crop on large scale). |
Major Crops | Rice, wheat, maize, cotton, jute, coffee, tea, etc., based on climatic conditions. |
Factors Affecting Agriculture | Topography, soil, climate, water, labour, and technology. |
Farm System | Input (land, labour, seeds) → Process (ploughing, sowing) → Output (crops, profit). |
Agricultural Development | Improving productivity using modern technology, irrigation, and market access. |
Technological Influence | Use of HYV seeds, tractors, drip irrigation, and biotechnology. |
Sustainable Agriculture | Farming practices that protect the environment and conserve resources. |
III. Important Questions:
(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):
Which of the following is a commercial crop?
a) Wheat
b) Rice
c) Cotton ✔️
d) BajraTea is mainly grown in:
a) Rajasthan
b) Kerala
c) Assam ✔️
d) GujaratShifting cultivation is also known as:
a) Organic farming
b) Slash and burn ✔️
c) Terrace farming
d) Mixed farmingWhat is the primary aim of subsistence farming?
a) Export
b) Profit
c) Family consumption ✔️
d) Industrial use
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):
Define plantation agriculture. Give two examples. (PYQ 2020)
Mention three factors that affect agriculture.
Differentiate between commercial and subsistence farming.
What is a farm system? Explain its components.
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):
Describe the main features of commercial farming with examples. (PYQ 2021)
Explain the process and importance of agricultural development.
How do physical and human factors influence agriculture?
Discuss the impact of technology on agriculture with suitable examples.
(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills):
Why is sustainable agriculture important in today’s world?
How can government policies support farmers in improving agricultural productivity?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:
Term | Definition / Example |
---|---|
Subsistence Farming | Farming to meet the needs of the farmer’s family. E.g., rice in India. |
Commercial Farming | Growing crops for sale in the market. E.g., wheat, cotton. |
Plantation | Large-scale single-crop farming. E.g., tea in Assam, coffee in Brazil. |
Farm Inputs | Tools, fertilizers, seeds, water, etc. |
Sustainable Farming | Practices like crop rotation, organic fertilizers, and minimal chemical use. |
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):
Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
---|---|---|
Agriculture | 6–8 Marks | Conceptual MCQs, Map-based, Short & Long Answer, HOTS |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
Marks | Question | Year |
---|---|---|
2 Marks | What is plantation agriculture? Give two examples. | 2020 |
3 Marks | Differentiate between subsistence and commercial farming. | 2019 |
5 Marks | Describe agricultural development and its features. | 2021 |
VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:
Drip irrigation and greenhouse farming in Israel as models of agricultural innovation.
Tea estates in Assam and coffee plantations in Karnataka reflect plantation agriculture.
Use of satellite data and mobile apps to predict weather and support farmers in India.
Contract farming and e-NAM (National Agricultural Market) as market linkage initiatives.
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success (Class-Specific):
Time Management:
Set 2 study sessions per week to revise theory and practice maps together.
Use visual aids like crop charts and farm system diagrams for clarity.
Exam Preparation:
Prepare notes on types of farming with comparison tables.
Practice past year map work and diagrams (e.g., crop belts of India).
Stress Management:
Create flashcards for crop names, regions, and farming types.
Use storytelling—relate farming types to family history or known farmers.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration (Class-Specific):
For Class 9–10 Students:
Stream | Career Paths |
---|---|
Science | Agronomist, Agricultural Engineer, Soil Scientist |
Commerce | Agri-business Manager, Supply Chain Specialist |
Arts | Rural Development Officer, Agricultural Economist |
Explore:
ICAR Junior Exams, NTSE, and Agro-based Olympiads.
Field visits to farms or agriculture expos to understand innovations.
XI. Important Notes:
Use ncert.nic.in and cbseacademic.nic.in for latest updates.
Focus on maps of India showing major crops and types of farming.
Link with other chapters like soil (Chapter 2) to show interdependence.