Agriculture is the primary occupation of people in many countries, especially in India, where more than 50% of the population is engaged in farming. It involves the cultivation of crops, rearing of animals, and other farming activities to produce food, fiber, and raw materials for various industries.
This chapter helps students understand the types of agriculture, farming practices, agricultural tools, and the role of technology in modern farming.
1. What is Agriculture?
The term agriculture is derived from Latin words:
- "Ager" meaning field.
- "Cultura" meaning cultivation.
Thus, agriculture refers to the practice of growing crops and rearing animals to meet human needs.
2. Types of Agriculture
Agriculture can be classified into different types based on farming techniques, crops grown, and land use.
2.1 Subsistence Farming
- Farmers grow crops for their own use rather than for sale.
- Uses traditional tools and methods.
- Low yield due to limited resources.
Example: Small-scale farming in villages.
2.2 Commercial Farming
- Crops are grown for sale in markets and industries.
- Uses modern technology, fertilizers, and irrigation systems.
- High yield due to advanced methods.
Example: Sugarcane and cotton farming in large estates.
2.3 Mixed Farming
- Both crops and livestock are raised together.
- Provides multiple sources of income.
Example: Dairy farms where cattle and wheat farming coexist.
2.4 Plantation Farming
- Single crop grown on a large scale for commercial use.
- Requires huge investment and labor.
- Mostly practiced in hilly areas.
Example: Tea, coffee, and rubber plantations.
2.5 Shifting Cultivation (Slash and Burn)
- Farmers clear forests, cultivate crops, and move to another land after soil fertility declines.
- Mainly practiced in northeastern India and tribal areas.
Example: Jhum cultivation in Assam.
2.6 Organic Farming
- No chemicals are used; only natural fertilizers like compost and manure.
- Protects soil fertility and the environment.
Example: Growing vegetables using bio-fertilizers.
3. Major Crops in India
Crops are categorized based on climatic conditions and seasons.
3.1 Kharif Crops
- Sown in June-July and harvested in September-October.
- Need high rainfall.
- Examples: Rice, Maize, Cotton, Groundnut.
3.2 Rabi Crops
- Sown in October-November and harvested in March-April.
- Require cold weather and less rainfall.
- Examples: Wheat, Barley, Mustard, Peas.
3.3 Zaid Crops
- Grown between Rabi and Kharif seasons (March to June).
- Require warm and dry weather.
- Examples: Watermelon, Cucumber, Muskmelon.
4. Agricultural Practices
Farming involves various steps to ensure proper crop production.
Step 1: Preparation of Soil
- Ploughing: Loosening soil using a plough to improve air circulation.
- Leveling: Smoothing the soil surface using a leveller.
- Manuring: Adding organic or chemical fertilizers.
Step 2: Sowing of Seeds
- Selection of good seeds ensures high yield.
- Broadcasting: Seeds are scattered manually.
- Drilling: Using machines to sow seeds at proper depths.
Step 3: Adding Manure and Fertilizers
- Organic Manure: Cow dung, compost.
- Chemical Fertilizers: Urea, NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium).
Step 4: Irrigation (Watering the Crops)
- Canal Irrigation: Used in large farms.
- Drip Irrigation: Saves water by delivering it directly to the roots.
- Sprinkler Irrigation: Sprays water like rain.
Step 5: Weeding (Removing Unwanted Plants)
- Hand Weeding: Removing weeds manually.
- Herbicides: Spraying chemicals to kill weeds.
Step 6: Protection from Pests
- Pesticides and insecticides prevent crop damage from pests.
Step 7: Harvesting (Cutting Crops)
- Manual Method: Using a sickle.
- Machine Method: Using a harvester.
Step 8: Storage of Grains
- Grains are dried and stored in granaries to prevent spoilage.
5. Role of Technology in Agriculture
5.1 Modern Machinery
- Tractors for ploughing.
- Harvesters for quick harvesting.
- Drip irrigation systems to conserve water.
5.2 Use of Biotechnology
- Development of high-yield and pest-resistant seeds.
- Genetic modification improves crop quality.
5.3 Green Revolution
- Led by Dr. M.S. Swaminathan.
- Introduction of HYV (High Yielding Variety) seeds.
- Increased food production in India.
6. Importance of Agriculture
- Provides food for the growing population.
- Source of livelihood for millions of farmers.
- Supplies raw materials for industries (cotton for textiles, sugarcane for sugar).
- Contributes to economic growth.
- Supports export trade.
7. Challenges in Agriculture
- Overuse of chemical fertilizers harms soil health.
- Water scarcity affects irrigation.
- Pest attacks reduce crop yield.
- Climate change affects rainfall patterns.
- Fragmented land holdings limit large-scale farming.
8. Sustainable Agriculture
- Crop Rotation: Growing different crops to maintain soil fertility.
- Organic Farming: Using natural fertilizers instead of chemicals.
- Water Conservation: Using rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation.
Conclusion
Agriculture plays a vital role in feeding the world’s population. With modern techniques and sustainable practices, we can improve crop production while preserving the environment.
FAQs on Agriculture (Class 8 Science)
1. What is agriculture?
Agriculture is the practice of growing crops and rearing animals to provide food and raw materials.
2. What are the major types of farming?
- Subsistence farming (for personal use).
- Commercial farming (for sale).
- Plantation farming (large-scale crop production).
3. What are Kharif and Rabi crops?
- Kharif crops (rainy season): Rice, maize, cotton.
- Rabi crops (winter season): Wheat, mustard, barley.
4. What is organic farming?
Organic farming avoids chemicals and uses natural fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.
5. Why is irrigation important?
Irrigation provides water to crops for proper growth, especially in areas with low rainfall.
6. What is the Green Revolution?
The Green Revolution introduced HYV seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation techniques, increasing food production.
7. What are the problems faced by farmers?
Farmers face challenges like climate change, water shortage, low productivity, and market price fluctuations.
8. How does modern technology help in farming?
Modern technology like tractors, harvesters, and drip irrigation improves efficiency and crop yield.