Which plant family is most important for pulses and protein-rich crops in Indian agriculture?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Fabaceae.
Explanation:
☛ The plant family Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae) is the most vital family for pulses and protein-rich crops in Indian agriculture.
☛ It includes major pulse crops such as chickpea (gram), pigeon pea (arhar), lentil, moong, urad, and soybean.
☛ Plants of this family possess root nodules containing the symbiotic bacterium Rhizobium, which fixes atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, thereby naturally enhancing soil fertility.
☛ Due to their high protein content, pulses from this family play a crucial role in providing nutritional security to the predominantly vegetarian population of India.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Poaceae (Gramineae): The grass family that includes major staple cereal crops such as rice, wheat, maize, barley, and sugarcane.
☛ Solanaceae: Known as the nightshade or potato family, it includes economically important crops like potato, tomato, brinjal, and chilli.
☛ Brassicaceae (Cruciferae): The mustard family, widely cultivated for oilseeds and vegetables, including mustard, cabbage, cauliflower, and radish.
☛ India: The world's largest producer, consumer, and importer of pulses.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which bacterium forms a symbiotic relationship with legume roots to fix nitrogen? → Rhizobium
☛ Which Indian state is the leading producer of pulses in India? → Madhya Pradesh
☛ Which family does the wheat and rice plant belong to? → Poaceae
☛ What type of fruit is typically produced by members of the Fabaceae family? → Legume or Pod
☛ Which pulse crop is known as 'Red Gram'? → Pigeon pea (Arhar/Tur)