Question

Given below are two statements :
Statement (I) : Potato is an important cash crop for Indian farmers.
Statement (II) : Potatoes are a versatile crop that can be used for food, feed, and industrial purposes. The crop has a high yield potential and can be grown in different agro-climatic conditions.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

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

Hint:

To maximize potato yield and quality, growers use specific seed potato production techniques like the "Seed Plot Technique" (developed by Pushkarnath) to produce virus-free seed tubers in the subtropical plains of India during aphid-free periods.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Potato (*Solanum tuberosum*) is a major tuber crop cultivated globally.
It plays a significant role in agricultural systems, rural economics, and food security due to its high productivity and versatile industrial and culinary applications.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements individually:
Statement (I): "Potato is an important cash crop for Indian farmers."
This statement is correct.
Although consumed as a vegetable, the potato is cultivated primarily as a commercial cash crop by Indian farmers because it generates significant market value and profit per unit area compared to traditional cereal crops.
Statement (II): "Potatoes are a versatile crop that can be used for food, feed, and industrial purposes. The crop has a high yield potential and can be grown in different agro-climatic conditions."
This statement is correct.
The potato tuber is incredibly versatile, serving as a staple food, a nutrient-rich animal feed, and a raw material for various industrial applications (such as starch, alcohol, and processed food manufacturing).
It is a highly efficient crop with a high dry-matter yield potential per unit of water and land.
Furthermore, it is highly adaptable and can be grown in diverse agro-climatic regions of India, ranging from the temperate Himalayan hills to the subtropical Indo-Gangetic plains during winter.
Both statements are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true.
This corresponds to Option (A).