Question

In shifting cultivation, the shifting cycle has been shrunk to about 5 years or even below 5 years, mainly due to:

• A. Increase in soil fertility
• B. Decrease in population of tribal farmers practicing shifting cultivation
• C. Increase in population of tribal farmers
• D. Quality of produce from shifting cultivation is high

Hint:

Shifting cultivation cycle:
Traditionally 10-20 years.
Now reduced to 5 years due to population pressure.
Leads to land degradation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Shifting cultivation is a traditional practice.
The cycle length has decreased over time.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
No specific formula.
Need to understand the reasons for changes in shifting cultivation.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The shifting cycle has shrunk to about 5 years or less.
This is mainly due to an increase in population.
More people require more land for cultivation.
This leads to shorter fallow periods.
Thus, increase in population is the main reason.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The shifting cycle has shrunk due to increase in population.
Hence, the correct option is (C).