Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula) is an important cucurbitaceous vegetable.
Research institutes like ICAR-IIVR breed varieties that are suited for both traditional fields and specialized agro-ecological niches like riverbeds (diara land cultivation).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements regarding the ridge gourd variety 'Kashi Saumya':
Statement (I) asserts that 'Kashi Saumya' is an attractive dark green, medium-fruited, open-pollinated (OP) variety of Ridge gourd.
This is correct as it is a prominent open-pollinated variety developed by IIVR, Varanasi, featuring high yield, tender ribs, and excellent culinary characteristics.
Statement (II) states that 'Kashi Saumya' is suitable for riverbed cultivation.
Riverbed or diara land cultivation is a specialized system where cucurbits are grown on sandy riverbeds during the dry winter-spring season.
Cucurbit varieties chosen for this system must have deep taproot systems, high temperature tolerance, and quick fruit-bearing habits.
'Kashi Saumya' is highly recommended for riverbed cultivation due to its early flowering, vigorous growth, and ability to establish well in sandy soils with limited water.
Thus, both statements are factually correct.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true.