Question

Given below are two statements :
Statement (I) : Black gram as a cover crop reduces surface runoff and soil loss during rainy seasons.
Statement (II) : Black gram as a live mulch crop reduces surface runoff and soil loss during rainy seasons.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

Using leguminous live mulches like black gram provides two major benefits:
- It protects the soil surface from water erosion.
- It fixes atmospheric nitrogen, which enriches the soil and supports the main crop.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil conservation on agricultural slopes relies on establishing vegetative covers to protect the soil surface from water erosion.
Cover crops and live mulches shield the soil surface from the physical impact of raindrops and slow down surface water runoff.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements:
Statement (I): "Black gram as a cover crop reduces surface runoff and soil loss during rainy seasons."
This statement is correct.
Black gram (*Vigna mungo*) is a fast-growing, low-canopy leguminous crop.
Its spreading canopy quickly covers the bare soil surface, dissipating the kinetic energy of falling raindrops (preventing splash erosion).
This maintains the soil's infiltration capacity and reduces surface water runoff and soil erosion during heavy rains.
Statement (II): "Black gram as a live mulch crop reduces surface runoff and soil loss during rainy seasons."
This statement is correct.
A live mulch is a cover crop grown alongside a main cash crop.
Growing black gram as a live mulch provides a continuous living cover over the soil.
This slows down surface water runoff, traps eroding soil particles, and prevents soil loss during the rainy season.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
This corresponds to Option (A).