UPSC Mains 2023 GS3 Q13 — Cropping Patterns
Explain the changes in cropping pattern in India in the context of changes in consumption pattern and marketing conditions. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Explain
- Scope keywords
- changes in cropping patternIndiaconsumption patternmarketing conditions
- Implicit sub-parts
- Recent shifts in cropping pattern away from traditional cereals towards horticulture, oilseeds, and cash crops.
- The causal link between rising urban incomes/dietary diversification and what farmers choose to grow.
- Impact of improved cold chains, e-NAM, and global trade integration on crop selection.
- The persistence of the rice-wheat monoculture due to specific marketing conditions like MSP and procurement.
- Common pitfalls
- Writing a generic essay on Indian agriculture problems without specifically linking them to consumption and marketing.
- Ignoring the 'marketing' aspect by focusing solely on diet, or vice versa.
- Failing to mention the geographical shift, such as the spread of oilseeds in semi-arid regions or horticulture in hilly areas.
- Overlooking the role of government policy (MSP/APMC) as a 'marketing condition' that distorts natural cropping shifts.
- Dimensions required
- Dietary/Nutritional (Demand side)Economic/Market (Incentive side)Policy/Institutional (State intervention)Technological (Storage and logistics)Socio-economic (Urbanization and lifestyle changes)
- Marks allocation hint
Devote approximately 50-60 words to defining cropping patterns and identifying current trends. Allocate 80-90 words to the consumption link (dietary diversification/protein-rich foods) and another 80-90 words to marketing conditions (MSP, supply chains, export demand). Use the final 20 words for a forward-looking conclusion on sustainable cropping.
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