Topic: Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, – different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers.
5. What is Plasticulture? Do you think its environmental costs outweigh its economic benefits? Critically comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Hindustan Times
Why the question:
According to Food and Agriculture Organization experts, agricultural value chains use 12.5 million tonnes of plastic products each year. Crop production and livestock combined accounted for 10.2 million tonnes (Mt) per year of plastics, followed by fisheries and aquaculture with 2.1 million tonnes and forests with 0.2 million tonnes.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about Plasticulture, its pros and cons.
Directive word:
Critically comment – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘comment’ is prefixed, we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining plasticulture and its objectives.
Body:
First, write about the various components of plasticulture
Next, write about the benefits of plasticulture in agriculture and substantiate with facts and examples.
Next, write about the limitations of plasticulture. Also, write about ways to reduce the limitations associated with it.
Conclusion:
Conclude by commenting a balanced opinion of plasticulture.
