Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Agro-ecological zoning is the division of a land area into smaller units based on similar climatic conditions, soil types, and length of growing period (LGP).
This classification is critical for planning agricultural and agroforestry practices suited to local conditions.
Step 2: Detailed Explation:
In India, the tiol Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) developed a comprehensive agro-ecological classification.
By integrating parameters such as physiography, soils, bio-climate, and length of growing period, the NBSS&LUP classified the country into:
• 20 Agro-ecological Regions (AERs): These are broad geographic regions sharing macro-climatic and physiographic features.
• 60 Agro-ecological Subregions (AESRs): These are finer subdivisions within the 20 main regions, refined to account for localized soil and moisture variations.
This 20 and 60 classification remains the standard reference for land-use planning and agricultural research in India.
Step 3: Fil Answer:
The correct option is (A).