Question

How many agroclimatic zones are in India?

• A. 18
• B. 19
• C. 20
• D. 22

Hint:

To avoid confusion:
Planning Commission = 15 zones.
NBSS&LUP = 20 zones.
NARP (ICAR) = 127 zones.
Identify the options in the exam to determine which classification is being targeted.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
To plan regional agricultural development, India has been classified into distinct zones based on parameters like soil, temperature, rainfall, and water resources.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
There are three main classifications of zones in India:
1. The Planning Commission of India divided the country into 15 Agro-climatic regions.
2. The National Agricultural Research Project (NARP) under ICAR divided the country into 127 Agro-climatic zones.
3. The National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP) divided the country into 20 Agro-ecological regions (zones), which are often referred to as agroclimatic zones in standard examinations.
Since 15 is not present in the options and 20 is a primary choice, the question refers to the 20 agro-ecological/climatic zones defined by the NBSS&LUP.
These 20 zones are formulated based on bioclimate, soil type, physiography, and length of growing period.

Step 3: Final Answer:
There are 20 agro-ecological/climatic zones in India.