Which of the following pairs correctly represents the cropping season and its corresponding time of sowing?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: (C) Kharif – June to September
Explanation:
In India, crop seasons are primarily categorized into three types: Kharif, Rabi, and Zaid. Kharif crops are typically sown at the onset of the Southwest Monsoon (June–July) and harvested at the conclusion of the monsoon season (September–October). These crops require abundant water and warm weather conditions to grow. Major Kharif crops include rice, maize, sorghum (Jowar), pearl millet (Bajra), cotton, and groundnuts.
In contrast, Rabi crops are winter crops; they are sown in October–November and harvested in March–April (examples include wheat, gram, and mustard). Zaid crops are cultivated during the short interlude between the Rabi and Kharif seasons (March to June) and primarily consist of water-rich crops such as watermelons, muskmelons, and cucumbers.
Additional Points:
Regarding options (A) and (D): Rabi crops are sown during the winter season (October), not at the onset of the monsoon or during May–June.
Regarding option (B): October–November marks the sowing period for Rabi crops, whereas the Zaid season falls between March and June.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers:
Question: Which of the following is not a Rabi crop?
Wheat, Gram, Mustard, Maize.
Answer: Maize (This is a Kharif crop).
Question: Which crop is referred to as the 'Golden Fibre,' and to which season does it belong?
Answer: Jute is known as the 'Golden Fibre,' and it is a Kharif season crop.