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Question

Which of the following statements with reference to crops cultivated in India is/are correct?
1. Bajra grows well in sandy and shallow black soils, whereas red and shallow black soil is suited for Ragi
2. Bajra is predominantly grown in states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, while Ragi is mainly cultivated in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh
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This question was previously asked in
NDA 2 2025 GAT Question Paper (14-Sep-2025)
The correct answer is
Both 1 and 2

Understanding Crop Cultivation in India: Bajra and Ragi

This question asks us to evaluate the correctness of two statements regarding the cultivation of Bajra (Pearl Millet) and Ragi (Finger Millet) in India. Let's break down each statement.

Statement 1 Analysis: Soil Preferences

Statement 1 talks about the suitable soil types for growing Bajra and Ragi.

  • Bajra Soil Needs: Bajra, also known as Pearl Millet, is a hardy crop that thrives in arid and semi-arid regions. It grows well in sandy soils and light sandy loams. It can also tolerate shallow black soils and is relatively adaptable to different soil conditions, provided they are well-drained. The statement mentions "sandy and shallow black soils", which aligns with its known soil preferences.
  • Ragi Soil Needs: Ragi, or Finger Millet, is another important millet crop. It prefers well-drained soils. It is known to grow well in sandy loams, light red soils, and shallow black soils. It can even grow on degraded soils, making it a valuable crop for marginal lands. The statement's mention of "red and shallow black soil" being suited for Ragi is accurate.

Therefore, Statement 1, which suggests Bajra grows well in sandy and shallow black soils, and Ragi is suited for red and shallow black soil, appears to be correct.

Statement 2 Analysis: Major Growing Regions

Statement 2 focuses on the primary states in India where Bajra and Ragi are cultivated.

  • Bajra Cultivation States: Bajra is a staple in the northwestern and western parts of India. Major cultivating states include Rajasthan, which is the largest producer, followed by Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. The statement listing "Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra" is consistent with the key Bajra growing regions.
  • Ragi Cultivation States: Ragi is predominantly grown in the southern and certain hilly regions of India. Karnataka is the leading producer, followed by Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The statement mentions "Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh". While Himachal Pradesh is not a primary producer, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are major Ragi-growing states. The inclusion of these key states makes the statement largely correct in identifying major areas.

Thus, Statement 2, identifying major states for Bajra and Ragi cultivation, is also considered correct.

Conclusion on Statements

Based on the analysis of soil requirements and major cultivation areas, both Statement 1 and Statement 2 provide accurate information regarding the cultivation of Bajra and Ragi in India.

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