Agriculture: Detailed Notes for 8th Class
Agriculture
Agriculture is branch of science which deal in study of growth of palnts and animals for human use.
Factors Affecting Agriculture
Agriculture depends on various factors that influence how crops grow and how much they produce. Here are some important factors:
1. Climate
Climate refers to the weather conditions like temperature, rainfall, and sunlight in a region. Different crops need different climate conditions to grow well.
2. Soil
Soil quality and type are crucial for agriculture. Some soils are sandy, some are clayey, and some are loamy. Loamy soil is considered best for most crops.
3. Relief
Relief means the shape and height of the land. Plains are generally better for farming than hills and mountains because they are easier to work on and usually have better soil.
4. Other Factors
These include the availability of water, the use of fertilizers, and the technology available to farmers. All these help in increasing crop production.
Kinds of Farming
There are different types of farming based on the methods used and the purpose of farming. Here are some common types:
1. Extensive Agriculture
This type of farming uses large areas of land with low inputs like seeds and fertilizers. It results in low output per acre but covers a vast area.
2. Intensive Agriculture
Intensive agriculture uses small areas of land but with high inputs of seeds, fertilizers, and labor. It produces high output per acre.
3. Shifting Agriculture
In shifting agriculture, farmers move to a new plot of land once the soil in the current plot loses its fertility. This helps in restoring the soil fertility over time.
4. Subsistence Agriculture
This type of farming is done mainly to meet the needs of the farmer's family. The crops are not grown for sale but for personal use.
5. Commercial Agriculture
Commercial agriculture is done to produce crops for sale in the market. The main aim is to make a profit.
6. Plantation Agriculture
This involves large-scale farming of a single crop, such as tea, coffee, or rubber, usually for export.
7. Dry Farming
Dry farming is practiced in areas with very little rainfall. Crops that need less water, like millet and sorghum, are grown.
8. Humid Farming
Humid farming is practiced in areas with high rainfall. Crops that need more water, like rice and jute, are grown.
9. Dairy Farming
Dairy farming involves rearing cows and buffaloes for milk production. The milk is then sold or used to make dairy products like cheese and butter.
10. Ranching
Ranching is large-scale livestock farming, especially cattle and sheep, usually for meat production.
11. Mixed Farming
In mixed farming, crops and animals are reared on the same farm. This helps in utilizing the resources efficiently.
12. Truck Farming
Truck farming involves growing vegetables for sale in local markets. This type of farming is usually done near urban areas.
13. Fishing
Fishing involves cultivating fish in ponds, rivers, and oceans. It is an important source of food and income for many people.
14. Sericulture
Sericulture is the rearing of silkworms for silk production. It is a labor-intensive process but can be very profitable.
15. Tendancy Farming
Tendancy farming is done on rented land. Farmers pay rent to use the land for cultivation.
16. Cooperative Farming
In cooperative farming, farmers pool their resources and share the profits. This helps in reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
17. Collective Farming
Collective farming involves large farms operated by a group of farmers collectively. It is often found in socialist countries.
Agricultural Development
Improving agriculture involves several steps to increase production and efficiency. Some key methods are:
- Using better quality seeds and fertilizers.
- Adopting modern irrigation methods.
- Implementing effective pest control measures.
- Educating farmers about new farming practices.
- Using advanced machinery and technology.
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