Question:

What is approximate percent area under riverbed cultivation out of total area under cucurbits cultivation?

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Riverbed cultivation is a form of natural hydroponics.
The sandy top layer provides excellent aeration, while the roots tap directly into the underlying moisture-rich silt layer.
  • 85
  • 48
  • 68
  • 25
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Riverbed cultivation, also known as "Diara land farming," is a highly specialized agricultural practice.
It involves growing vegetables on dry, sandy riverbeds after monsoon floodwaters recede.
This system is especially suited for tap-rooted cucurbits due to the availability of underground residual moisture.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

In India, riverbed farming is practiced extensively along major river systems.
These rivers include the Ganges, Yamuna, Narmada, and their various tributaries.
As the post-monsoon water levels decline, vast stretches of dry, sandy riverbeds become available.
Cucurbitaceous crops, such as watermelon, musk melon, bottle gourd, and bitter gourd, are highly suited to this environment.
These crops have deep, extensive tap-root systems that can access the lower water table.
According to vegetable production statistics, riverbed farming is highly prominent.
It represents approximately 68% of the total area dedicated to cucurbits cultivation in northern and central India.
This system allows farmers to produce off-season, early-crop vegetables.
These early harvests fetch premium prices in the market before regular field crops are harvested.
This makes the riverbed system economically significant for small and marginal landless farmers.

Step 3: Final Answer:

The approximate percent area under riverbed cultivation out of the total area under cucurbits is 68%.
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