Cropping Pattern of India UPSC CSE

chahalacademy.com/cropping-pattern

1. Home
2. Materials
3. Cropping Pattern

India's diverse climate has led to a variety of cropping patterns. The Three main
seasons are Kharif (monsoon, rice, maize, cotton), Rabi (winter, wheat, pulses), and
Zaid (short season, vegetables, melons). Cropping intensity varies, with mono-
cropping (single crop) and multi-cropping (multiple crops in a year) being common. The
Factors influencing patterns are climate, soil type, farm size, and government policies.
Historically, subsistence farming dominated, but a shift towards cash crops and
market orientation is underway. While diversification offers benefits like improved soil
health and dietary intake, challenges like water scarcity and unequal benefits for small
farmers persist. Moving forward, India needs to promote sustainable practices and
technological advancements alongside diversified cropping patterns to ensure food
security for its growing population.

1) What are the main cropping seasons in India, and which crops are
typically grown during each season?
The main cropping seasons in India are Kharif, Rabi, and Zaid. During the Kharif season
(June-September), crops like rice, maize, cotton, pulses, groundnut, and jute are typically
grown. In the Rabi season (October-March), crops such as wheat, barley, gram, mustard,
and potato are common. The Zaid season (March-April to June-July) sees the cultivation
of short-duration crops like watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, and various vegetables.

2) What factors influence the choice of crops grown by farmers in India?

Several factors influence the choice of crops grown by farmers in India, including climate,
soil type, water availability, market demand, agricultural practices, land ownership, and
government policies. Farmers consider these factors to maximize productivity and
profitability while ensuring the sustainability of their agricultural practices.

3) What are some solutions to improve cropping patterns in India?

Promote diversification: Encourage pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture alongside
cereals.

1/9
 Sustainable practices: Implement organic farming, crop rotation, and water-
efficient irrigation.
Technological advancements: Utilize precision agriculture for data-driven decision
making and resource optimization.
Focus on Millets: Promote production and consumption of millets for their
nutritional value and drought resistance.

Background of Cropping Pattern

India's cropping patterns are undergoing a transformation driven by data and
economic forces. The area under fruits and vegetables has grown significantly, with
states like Himachal Pradesh witnessing a rise in apple and cherry cultivation. Data
also suggests a growing focus on oilseeds, reflecting both government initiatives and
market opportunities. This trend towards diversification holds promise for improving
dietary intake, soil health, and farmer incomes, but challenges like water scarcity and
ensuring equitable benefits for all stakeholders need to be addressed for a sustainable
future.

Introduction of Cropping Pattern

Cropping pattern refers to the arrangement, sequence, and distribution of different
crops grown on a piece of land over a specific period, usually a year. It is influenced
by various factors such as climate, soil fertility, water availability, market demand, and
agricultural practices. Cropping patterns can vary widely across regions and are often
tailored to maximize productivity and profitability.

Types of Cropping Pattern in India

India's vast landscape and diverse climate necessitate a variety of cropping patterns to
optimize agricultural production.

Based on Season

2/9
 Kharif Season (June-September): This coincides with the monsoon season
and is suitable for crops requiring ample rainfall. Common Kharif crops include:
Rice: The dominant crop in India, particularly in the wetter regions.
Maize (Corn): Grown widely for both food and fodder.
Cotton: A major cash crop cultivated in central and southern India.
Pulses: Important source of protein, including lentils, black gram,
chickpeas, and pigeon peas. According to the Directorate of Economics
and Statistics (DES), the share of pulse production in 2018- 19 was
comprised of Tur (15.34%), Gram (43.29%), Moong (green
gram,10.04%), Urad (black gram, 13.93%), Lentil (6.67%), and Other
Pulses (10%).
Groundnut: An oilseed crop also used for food.
Jute: A fiber crop used for making burlap and other textiles.

Rabi Season (October-March): This winter season receives less rainfall and is
ideal for crops that can tolerate cooler temperatures. Major Rabi crops
include:
Wheat: A staple food grain grown predominantly in northern India.
Barley: A cereal crop used for food and animal feed.
Pulses such as Gram (Chickpea): A major pulse crop consumed
throughout India, black gram, etc. Though pulses are grown in both
Kharif and Rabi seasons, Rabi pulses contribute more than 60% of the
total production. In the last three decades, both the production of kharif
pulses and the production of rabi pulses have increased.
Mustard: An oilseed crop also valued for its edible leaves.
Potato: A versatile vegetable grown across the country.

Zaid Season (March-April to June-July): This is a short season between Kharif

and Rabi, characterized by rising temperatures and pre-monsoon showers in
some areas. Farmers typically cultivate short-duration, heat-resistant crops
during Zaid. Examples include:
Watermelon, Muskmelon, Cucumber.
Vegetables: Other vegetables like tomatoes, okra (ladyfinger), and bottle
gourd are also grown during Zaid, depending on the region's specific
weather patterns.

Based on Cropping Intensity:

Mono-cropping: The practice of growing a single crop on a particular piece of

land during a specific season. This can be efficient but may deplete soil nutrients
over time. Examples: cultivating only rice during Kharif or wheat during Rabi.

3/9
 Intercropping: Growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same field.
This can improve land utilization, provide natural pest control, and enrich soil
fertility through nitrogen fixation (by legumes). Examples: planting pulses like
gram alongside wheat or maize.
Mixed Cropping: Sowing different crops in a close but irregular pattern within
the same field. This is similar to intercropping but with less planned arrangement.
It can enhance biodiversity and reduce pest risks. Examples: growing vegetables
like onions and tomatoes alongside peppers or eggplant.
Sequential Cropping: Growing two or more crops on the same land in a
sequential manner within the same agricultural year. This takes advantage of
varying crop durations and allows for multiple harvests. Example: harvesting a
short-duration crop like vegetables followed by planting a longer-duration crop like
rice.

Other Cropping Systems:

Relay Cropping: Planting a second crop before the first crop is fully
harvested. This maximizes land use and allows for efficient harvesting
schedules. Example: planting a short-duration pulse crop like moong dal before
harvesting a longer-duration sugarcane crop.
Multi-cropping: A broader term encompassing various intensive cropping
practices where multiple crops are grown on the same land in a year, maximizing
production potential.

Factors affecting Cropping Pattern

Climate and Rainfall:

Diverse Climate: From the arid north to the humid south, India's varied
climate dictates suitable crops for different regions. Wheat thrives in
cooler areas, while rice dominates in wetter regions.
Seasonal Variations: The monsoon season (Kharif) influences cropping
patterns. Farmers typically cultivate rice, maize, cotton during this period.
The winter season (Rabi) sees wheat, pulses, and mustard.
Soil Type:
Varying Fertility: Soil types across India differ in fertility and water
retention. Black soils are ideal for cotton and pulses, while alluvial soils
are well-suited for rice and wheat. Farmers choose crops based on their
soil's specific characteristics.

4/9
 Subsistence vs. Commercial Farming:
Traditional Practices: Subsistence farming, where families grow crops
for their own consumption, has been prevalent in India earlier.
Commercialization: Due to rising market focus, farmers are more
inclined towards growing cash crops like sugarcane, oilseeds, and
vegetables.
Land Ownership and Farm Size:
Land Distribution: Small and marginal farmers with limited landholdings
may have fewer options for diversified cropping patterns.
Government Policies:
Food Security: The government prioritizes food security and incentivizes
cultivation of staple crops like rice and wheat through Minimum Support
Prices (MSPs).
Diversification Initiatives: Recognizing the importance of diversifying
crops for soil health and income, the government promotes alternative
crops through schemes and subsidies.
Technological Advancements:
Irrigation Infrastructure: Improved irrigation allows cultivation beyond
the limitations of the monsoon season, enabling multiple cropping in
some areas.
High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs) and Green Revolution: The
introduction of HYVs has increased productivity and facilitated multiple
cropping cycles in suitable regions.
Other Factors:
Market Fluctuations: Fluctuating market prices for crops can influence
farmers' choices, encouraging diversification and value addition to
agricultural products.
Climate Change: Erratic rainfall patterns and rising temperatures require
adapting cropping patterns with climate-resilient crops and sustainable
practices.
Soil Degradation: Overuse of fertilizers and monoculture practices can
lead to soil degradation. Sustainable farming methods are crucial for
maintaining soil health.

Irrigated Cropping System in India

System 1: Indo-Gangetic Plains

Region: This system is prevalent in the fertile Indo-Gangetic Plains

encompassing states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of
Jammu & Kashmir.

5/9
 Climate: This region experiences a sub-tropical climate with hot summers, mild
winters, and good monsoon rainfall. However, irrigation plays a crucial role in
supplementing rainfall and ensuring successful harvests.
Dominant Crops:
Kharif Season: Rice is the major crop, followed by maize, cotton, and
pulses like arhar (pigeon pea).
Rabi Season: Wheat is the dominant crop, along with barley, gram
(chickpea), and mustard.
Cropping Pattern: Rice-wheat is the most common double cropping pattern,
maximizing land utilization throughout the year. In some areas, farmers might
practice sequential cropping with crops like potatoes or vegetables after
harvesting wheat.

System 2: Coastal Areas of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu

Region: This system is prevalent in the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and
Tamil Nadu.
Climate: These regions have a tropical climate with hot and humid summers,
warm winters, and receive good rainfall, particularly during the northeast
monsoon. However, irrigation plays a vital role during dry periods and for certain
crops.
Dominant Crops:
Throughout the Year: Due to the extended growing season and
availability of irrigation, farmers can cultivate multiple crops in a year.
Major Crops: Rice, sugarcane, cotton, pulses like black gram and green
gram, and oilseeds like groundnut and sesame are commonly grown.
Cropping Pattern: Multiple cropping patterns are practiced, including rice-rice
(double cropping of rice), rice-pulses, or rice-vegetables. Sugarcane, a long-
duration crop, is often grown in a separate rotation.

Key Differences:

Crops: The Indo-Gangetic Plains focus heavily on rice-wheat rotation, while the
coastal areas practice multiple cropping with a wider variety of crops.
Climate and Rainfall: The Indo-Gangetic Plains rely more on irrigation due to a
shorter monsoon season compared to the coastal areas with extended growing
seasons.
Cropping Intensity: The coastal areas often practice more intensive cropping
patterns due to a longer growing season and better irrigation facilities.

Evolution of Cropping Pattern in India

6/9
Pre-Independence Era:

Subsistence Farming: Dominated by subsistence farming, where families

primarily grew crops for their own consumption.
Cash Crops: Limited cultivation of cash crops like cotton, jute, and indigo under
British rule, often at the expense of food security.
Stagnant Production: Low productivity due to traditional farming practices and
limited investment in agriculture.

Post-Independence (1947-1960s):

Focus on Food Security: Immediate priority given to achieving self-sufficiency in

food production due to frequent famines.
Development Efforts: Government initiatives like land reforms and community
development programs aimed at improving agricultural infrastructure.
Limited Progress: Despite efforts, progress in increasing production remained
slow.

Green Revolution (1960s-1980s):

High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): Adoption of HYVs for wheat and rice led to a
substantial increase in crop yields.
Increased Use of Inputs: Increased use of fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation
facilities further boosted production.
Success and Challenges: While successful in achieving food security, the Green
Revolution also led to concerns about environmental degradation and social
inequalities.

Post-Green Revolution (1980s-Present):

Diversification: Growing recognition of the need for diversification beyond rice

and wheat.
Focus on Pulses and Oilseeds: Promotion of pulses and oilseeds to improve
soil health and address protein deficiencies.
Horticulture Boom: Increased focus on horticulture, including fruits, vegetables,
and flowers, driven by rising demand and market opportunities.
Challenges: Unequal benefits of agricultural development, water scarcity, and
climate change pose new challenges.

Current Trends:

Market Orientation: Shift towards market-oriented agriculture, with farmers

responding to demands for high-value crops.

7/9
 Sustainable Practices: Growing awareness of the need for sustainable practices
like organic farming, conservation agriculture, and water-efficient irrigation.
Technological Advancements: Adoption of technologies like precision
agriculture for data-driven decision making and resource optimization.

Issues with the current cropping pattern

Overdependence on Rice and Wheat: The Green Revolution's success in

increasing rice and wheat production has led to an overdependence on these
crops, neglecting the importance of diversification. This can lead to soil nutrient
depletion and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases specific to these
crops.
Water Scarcity: Many regions, particularly those heavily reliant on rice
cultivation, face water scarcity. Current cropping patterns may not be sustainable
in the long run due to competition for water resources from a growing population
and industrial demands.
Soil Degradation: Monoculture practices (growing a single crop repeatedly) and
overuse of chemical fertilizers can lead to soil degradation, impacting fertility and
long-term productivity. Additionally, excessive use of water for irrigation can
contribute to salinization in some areas.
Unequal Benefits: The shift towards market-oriented agriculture and high-value
crops may not benefit all farmers equally. Small and marginal landholders might
struggle to adapt to these changes or lack access to resources needed for
profitable cash crops.
Climate Change: Erratic rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and extreme
weather events pose a significant challenge to existing cropping patterns.
Farmers need to adapt to more climate-resilient crops and sustainable practices
to ensure food security in a changing climate.
Market Fluctuations: Focusing solely on cash crops can leave farmers
vulnerable to fluctuating market prices. Diversification and exploring value
addition through processing or local markets can help mitigate these risks.
Excessive Fertilizer Use: Fertilizers are being used more and more as the land
productivity reduces leading to pollution of the ground water table and river water.

Conclusion of Cropping Pattern

These issues highlight the need for a multi-pronged approach to improve cropping
patterns in India. To ensure long-term agricultural sustainability in India, a shift
towards more diversified cropping patterns is essential. This can involve promoting
pulses, oilseeds, and horticulture alongside staple cereals to improve soil health and
dietary needs. Encouraging sustainable practices like organic farming, crop rotation,

8/9
zero waste farming and water-efficient irrigation is crucial to combat soil degradation
and water scarcity. Technological advancements like precision agriculture can further
optimize resource utilization. By addressing these concerns and embracing innovation,
India can ensure food security for its growing population while safeguarding its vital
agricultural resources for future generations.

Prelims PYQS of Cropping Pattern of India

(a) 1 and 4
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2, 3 and 4

Show Answer
Correct Answer :(c) 1, 2 and 3

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 3 only

Show Answer
Correct Answer :(a) 1 only

Main PYQS of Cropping Pattern of India

How has the emphasis on certain crops brought about changes in cropping
patterns in recent past? Elaborate the emphasis on millets production and
consumption.(2018)

What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping
system? How crop diversification is helpful to stabilize the yield of the crop in the
system? (2017)

9/9