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Question

Differentiate between cropping system and cropping pattern, and describe the principles of cropping system.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2025 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (25-May-2025)

A cropping system refers to the overall method of cultivating crops on a piece of land, integrating soil, water, climate, and socio-economic conditions. A cropping pattern, on the other hand, describes the specific sequence and proportion of crops grown in a particular area during a given period.

Principles of a good cropping system include:

Soil sustainability – Maintaining fertility and structure through crop rotation and inclusion of legumes.

Water use efficiency – Selecting crops as per rainfall and irrigation availability.

Climatic suitability – Matching crop requirements with regional agro-climate.

Risk management – Diversification to reduce crop failure risks.

Profitability – Ensuring higher income and market demand satisfaction.

Ecological balance – Avoiding overexploitation of resources.

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