Question

The potato crop is grown round the year in:

• A. Kashmir valley
• B. Nilgiris and Palani hills
• C. Zanskar Valley
• D. Shimla

Hint:

Nilgiris and Palani hills represent a unique microclimate in South India where temperate vegetables, like potato, can be grown continuously in multiple overlapping cycles.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
While potato is typically a seasonal temperate crop grown during winter (Rabi) in the plains of India, its cultivation can be sustained year-round in certain tropical hill stations.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In the Nilgiris and Palani hills of Southern India, the climate remains mild and temperate throughout the year without extreme frost or scorching heat.
This climate permits three successive potato crop seasons: Kharif, Rabi, and summer/autumn.
As a result, potato is grown almost round the year in these southern hills.
This continuous crop cycle is also the reason why potato cyst nematodes became permanently established in this region.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The potato crop is grown round the year in the Nilgiris and Palani hills, which corresponds to option (B).