Agricultural Sector and Innovative Trends Class 8 Notes Questions and Answers Social Science Chapter 12

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Class 8 Social Science Chapter 12 Agricultural Sector and Innovative Trends Notes Questions and Answers

Class 8 Social Science Agricultural Sector and Innovative Trends Notes Questions and Answers

Class 8 Social Science Chapter 12 Question Answer Kerala Syllabus

Question 1.
Complete the list of agricultural resources you use every day, categorising them into those that are cultivated in your home or locality and those that are not.
Answer:

CULTIVATED AT HOME OR LOCALLY	NOT CULTIVATED LOCALLY
Coconut Banana Curry leaves Vegetables (tomato, brinjal, okra) Chilli Tapioca Spinach / leafy vegetable	Wheat Apple Almonds and cashews Saffron, nutmeg Pulses like rajma, chana Tea leaves Coffee beans

Question 2.
Complete the diagram by selecting the appropriate ones from the given options.

Answer:

Question 3.
Find and list out more examples of Monocropping from your locality.
Answer:
Com, Soybeans, Wheat, Rice, Sugarcane

Question 4.
We have now become familiar with different cropping systems and their characteristics. Based on that, identify the cropping system that is suitable for your locality . Write down individually why you have chosen that cropping system.
Answer:
(Hints to Identify the Suitable Cropping System)
1. Look at what farmers in your area mostly grow

• Do they grow only one crop? → Monocropping
• Do they grow two crops together? → Mixed cropping
• Do they grow one crop after another? → Crop rotation
• Do they grow two crops on the same land but at different times? → Intercropping

2. Choose one cropping system that fits your locality and identify reasons for choosing that crop.
(Example: If you choose Monocropping)
“Farmers in my locality mostly grow only one main crop, like paddy/coconut/rubber.
This makes farming easy and less costly.
That is why monocropping is suitable here.”

Question 5.
List out the changes that have occurred in the agricultural sector in your locality.
Answer:

• Farmers have started using modem machines like tractors, power tillers, and sprayers.
• Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are used more than before.
• Many farmers are now growing high-yielding varieties of seeds.
• Irrigation facilities such as wells, pumps, and drip irrigation have improved.
• Farmers have shifted from traditional crops to cash crops like banana, mbber, and vegetables.
• Mixed farming (crops + livestock) is becoming more common.

Question 6.
Prepare a note comparing Polyhouse farming with Rain Shelter farming.
Answer:

Features	Rain Shelter farming	Polyhouse farming
Structure	Only the roof is covered with polythene sheets; sides are open.	Entire structure (roof and sides) fully covered with polythene sheets.
Protection	Protects mainly from heavy rain.	Protects from heat, rain, cold, wind, and strong sunlight.
Environmental control	Partial control (mainly rain).	Full control of temperature, humidity, and light.
Cost	Less expensive to set up.	More expensive due to complete structure.
Crop Production	Good yield mainly during rainy seasons.	High production throughout the year.
Suitable Crops	Tomato, chilli, cucumber, leafy vegetables.	Capsicum, cucumber, flowers, strawberries, exotic vegetables.

Question 7.
Organise a seminar on ‘Modern Trends in Agriculture.’
Answer:
(Hints)
Seminar: Modem Trends in Agriculture A student welcomes everyone and introduces the topic.
Explain why modern farming is needed today.

Present main points:

• Modem irrigation (drip, sprinkler)
• New technologies (tractors, drones, apps)
• Advanced methods (polyhouse, rain shelter, hydroponics)
• High-yield seeds and organic fertilizers
• Government support to farmers
• Show charts or pictures of modern farming methods.

Conclude: Modem agriculture increases production, saves water and labour. End with a vote of thanks.

Question 8.
Prepare a questionnaire to collect the necessary information from farmers to prepare a project on ‘Challenges faced by the agricultural sector.’
Answer:

• What crops do you usually grow?
• What problems do you face during farming?
• Do you face difficulty in getting good-quality seeds?
• Is water available for irrigation throughout the year?
• Do pests or plant diseases affect your crops often?
• Are fertilizers and pesticides costly or easy to get?

Question 9.
Observe the pictures and identify the small-scale industries and their raw materials.

Answer:
1. Papad / Bakery or Food Processing Industry
Raw Materials: Wheat flour/rice flour, Spices, Salt, Oil

2. Spice Grinding Industry
Raw Materials: Chilli, Turmeric, Coriander seeds, Pepper, Cumin, Other whole spices

3. Pickle-Making Industry
Raw Materials: Vegetables or fruits (mango, lemon, chilli, etc.), Salt, Vinegar/oil, Spices

4. Fruit Juice / Beverage Industry
Raw Materials: Fresh fruits (orange, mango, pineapple, etc.),Sugar, Water, Preservatives (optional)

Question 10.
Find an idea to begin a startup using the agricultural resources of our area and prepare an outline for it.
Answer:
Idea: Making and selling homemade pickles and fruit jams using local fruits and vegetables. Why?

• Raw materials are easily available.
• Low cost and high demand.
• Can be started at home.

Steps:

• Collect fruits/vegetables from local farmers.
• Prepare pickles and jams.
• Pack them in jars.
• Sell in local shops and markets.

Benefits:

• Supports farmers
• Earns small income
• Uses local agricultural resources effectively

Question 11.
Discuss and prepare a note on the importance of agricultural markets in the agricultural sector.
Answer:
Agricultural markets are very important because they help farmers sell their crops easily and at a fair price. These markets provide a proper place where farmers can bring their vegetables, fruits, grains, and other products. They also make sure the weighing is correct and the farmers are not cheated. Good storage and transport facilities in markets help reduce crop damage. Because of all this, farmers can earn better income, and consumers also get fresh products. Thus, agricultural markets play a big role in improving the agricultural sector.

Class 8 Agricultural Sector and Innovative Trends Questions and Answers Extended Activities

Question 1.
Visit nearby farmlands and prepare a report on various crops and cropping systems.
Answer:
Report on Crops and Cropping Systems in Nearby Farmlands
I visited the farmlands in my locality and observed various crops and the farming methods used by the farmers. The main crops grown in the area are paddy, banana, coconut, vegetables, and tapioca. Some farmers also grow pepper and arecanut.

Different cropping systems were also seen in these fields. In some places, farmers were practising monocropping, growing only one crop, such as paddy or banana, across the whole field. In many coconut farms, I saw intercropping, where vegetables and bananas were grown under the coconut trees. A few farmers also practiced mixed cropping, such as growing tapioca and vegetables together. In some fields, crop rotation was practised, in which farmers rotated crops each season to keep the soil fertile.

From the visit, 1 understood that farmers use different cropping systems based on soil, climate, and their needs. These systems help them get better yield and use the land more effectively.

Question 2.
Visit the Agricultural office near the school premises and discuss with the officials to understand the activities there.
Answer:
Report on Visit to the Agricultural Office
Our class visited the Agricultural Office near our school to understand the activities carried out there. The officials welcomed us and explained the different services they provide to farmers. They help farmers by giving information about seeds, fertilizers, and modem farming methods. They also guide farmers on how to control pests and plant diseases. The officers told us about government schemes and subsidies that support farmers.

The Agricultural Office also conducts training programmes to teach farmers about new technologies like drip irrigation, polyhouse farming, and organic farming. They help farmers test the soil to know which crops are best suited for their land. The officials also visit farmlands to advise on different stages of cultivation.

From the visit, we understood that the Agricultural Office plays a very important role in improving farming and helping farmers solve their problems.

Question 3.
Organise an agricultural fair in the school.
Answer:
(Hints to Organise an Agricultural Fair)

• Form a committee of teachers and students to plan the fair.
• Decide the date, venue, and theme of the fair.
• Invite local farmers, agricultural officers, and parents to participate.
• Set up stalls displaying seeds, fertilizers, tools, vegetables, fruits, and handmade products.
• Prepare charts and models showing modem farming methods like drip irrigation, polyhouse, and rain shelter farming.
• Arrange a demo corner for compost making, seed germination, or vermicomposting.
• Conduct competitions like poster-making, quiz on agriculture, and vegetable carving.
• Display farm produce grown in the school garden or by students.
• Provide a stage for experts to speak on modem farming and farmer issues.
• Make arrangements for refreshments made from local farm products.
• Ensure cleanliness, safety, and proper management throughout the event.

Question 4.
Based on a questionnaire you have already prepared, discuss with farmers, and prepare a project on the problems faced by the agricultural sector.
Answer:
(Hints: Problems Faced by Farmers (Points)

• Farmers mainly grow paddy, banana, vegetables, coconut, and tapioca.
• Difficulty in getting good-quality seeds on time.
• Water shortage during summer affects irrigation.
• Pests and plant diseases often damage crops.
• Fertilizers and pesticides are costly and sometimes unavailable.
• Weather changes, like heavy rain or drought, cause crop loss.
• High labour costs and a lack of workers make farming harder.

Question 5.
Set up a farm in the school using the farming methods and technology we have discussed in the lesson.
Answer:
(Hints to Set Up a School Farm)

• Select a small open space in the school for farming.
• Test the soil quality or ask a teacher/agriculture officer for guidance.
• Choose easy-to-grow crops like spinach, tomato, brinjal, lady’s finger, and banana.
• Use seed beds for germinating seeds before planting.
• Try modem irrigation methods like drip irrigation or sprinkler if possible.
• Practice intercropping, like growing vegetables under coconut or banana plants.
• Use organic manure or compost made from school waste.
• Set up small structures like a rain shelter or mini polyhouse if space allows.
• Maintain a watering schedule and observe plant growth regularly.
• Keep a record of crops, farming methods, and observations.
• Display charts in the school explaining the farming methods used.

Agricultural Sector and Innovative Trends Class 8 Notes Pdf

Std 8 Social Science Agricultural Sector and Innovative Trends Notes

• Agricultural sector is one of the oldest and most important sectors of the economy.
• The agricultural sector plays a major role in providing employment and ensuring food security in the country.
• The reasons for choosing different crops and cropping systems depending on time and place.
• Cropping system can be classified as Monocropping, Poly Cropping, Ratoon Cropping.
• Monocropping is the method of cultivating one crop at a time on a farm. This cropping system is mainly aimed at export.
• Multiple Cropping is a cropping system in which two or more crops are cultivated on a single plot of land without affecting the natural fertility of the soil.
• Mixed cropping is the method of cultivating two or more crops simultaneously on agricultural land without maintaining spacing between them.
• Inter Cropping Inter Cropping is a cropping system where another crop is cultivated between the main crop in a specific pattern.
• Sequence Cropping is the method of cultivating another short-term crop in the same field immediately after harvesting the main crop.
• Relay cropping is the method of growing a second crop on the field before harvesting the first crop.
• Crop rotation is the method of cultivating crops of different plant families on the same field after harvesting each crop.
• Multi-tier cropping is the method of cultivating crops of different heights, with different root depths and varying sunlight requirements on the same field simultaneously.
• During harvesting, the roots or lower part of the crop is left uncut. After harvesting, the crop that was cultivated grows again and produces yield.
• The shift from traditional agricultural methods to modem agricultural methods using new technology is remarkable.
• The main objective of technology in the agricultural sector is to help farmers increase agricultural production.
• A rain shelter is a roof covered with polythene sheets.
• Polyhouse farming or Greenhouse farming is a method of artificially creating a suitable environment for plant growth by protecting the plant from heat, rain, cold and sunlight.
• Precision farming is a technique that enables maximum production by providing each crop with the required water, nutrients and crop protection materials at the right time and in the right quantity.
• Digital farming is a farming method that incorporates diverse technologies.
• Agro-based small-scale and cottage industries are a solution to some extent to the problems faced by the agricultural sector.
• Small-scale and cottage industries that operate locally around us by utilising agricultural resources are of great importance.
• An agricultural market is a system for buying and selling agricultural products.
• An efficient agricultural market is essential for the progress of agriculture.

Introduction
This chapter, “Agricultural sector and Innovative Trends”, explains how important farming is in Kerala and how new methods are improving the agricultural sector. Kerala has different types of climates and small farmlands that help in growing many crops like vegetables, spices, plantation crops, and food crops. Many organisations, such as the Department of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, and Farmer-Producer Organisations, work to support and guide farmers. New technologies have brought big changes in farming, helping farmers increase production and protect the environment. At the same time, farmers face challenges like climate change, pests, and high costs. Agro-based small-scale industries and agricultural markets also play an important role in strengthening the agricultural sector. As students, we must learn about these topics to ensure food security and support future generations.

Agricultural Sector

• Agricultural sector is one of the oldest and most important sectors of the economy.
• It is also the largest unorganised sector in India. Agriculture provides food for the people and fodder for livestock.
• The agricultural sector plays a major role in providing employment and ensuring food security in the country.
• It helps in the growth of industries by providing raw materials. Agricultural products are also of great importance in our daily lives.
• Not all the crops or cropping systems are used for agriculture in all parts of India.
• The reasons for choosing different crops and cropping systems depending on time and place.

Factors Influencing Cropping System

Factors Influencing Cropping system	Sub-factors
Natural factors	Nature of soil Topography Climate Availability of water
Economic factors	Price of agricultural products Farmers’ income Area of agricultural land held
Infrastructure	Irrigation Electricity Transportation Marketing facilities Availability of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides
Social factors	Diet Education Generational differences in agricultural practices Social environment
Government policies	Export and import of crops Taxation Availability of loans Subsidies
Technological factors	High-yielding seed varieties Scientific irrigation Use of Modem technology

CROPPING SYSTEM

• The order in which crops are cultivated on a farm during a specific period is called cropping system.
• Cropping system can be classified as Monocropping, Poly Cropping, Ratoon Cropping.

Monocropping

• Monocropping is the method of cultivating one crop at a time on a farm. This cropping system is mainly aimed at export.
• Since there is only one crop, planting, maintenance and harvesting can be done smoothly. Its main advantage is that it can increase the profit from the fannland.
• Monocropping increases the risk of pest attack.
• Example: rubber, tea, tapioca.

Multiple Cropping Or Poly Cropping

• Multiple Cropping is a cropping system in which two or more crops are cultivated on a single plot of land without affecting the natural fertility of the soil.
• The advantage of this is to increase the total production from the farm land and thereby the income.

Mixed Cropping

• This is the method of cultivating two or more crops simultaneously on agricultural land without maintaining spacing between them. This cropping system is more common in dry areas.
• The advantage is that even if the yield of one crop is poor due to adverse weather conditions, the yield from other crops can be obtained.
• Example: maize-groundnut, coconut-pigeon pea

Inter Cropping

• Inter Cropping Inter Cropping is a cropping system where another crop is cultivated between the main crop in a specific pattern.
• This is a suitable method for controlling weeds and pests.
• Example: Groundnut cultivated as an intercrop in cotton, which grows slowly in the initial stage. Plantain cultivated as an intercrop in coconut plantations.

Sequence Cropping

• Sequence Cropping is the method of cultivating another short-term crop in the same field immediately after harvesting the main crop. This method utilises the moisture and nutrients remaining on the field.
• The main advantage is that the fields do not lie fallow.
• Example: On paddy fields, pulses or sesame are grown after the main crop, paddy.

Relay Cropping

• Relay cropping is the method of growing a second crop on the field before harvesting the first crop.
• Example: Cultivating vegetables before harvesting plantain.

Crop Rotation

• Crop rotation is the method of cultivating crops of different plant families on the same field after harvesting each crop. The main benefit of crop rotation is that it increases soil fertility.
• It is a suitable method for increasing soil productivity and for controlling weeds and pests.
• Example: Cultivating peas after paddy

Multi-Tier Cropping

• Multi-tier cropping is the method of cultivating crops of different heights, with different root depths and varying sunlight requirements on the same field simultaneously.
• Its advantage is that soil, water and sunlight can be used more effectively.
• Example: coconut, pepper, ginger/turmeric are cultivated simultaneously on the same farm.

Ratoon Cropping

• During harvesting, the roots or lower part of the crop is left uncut. After harvesting, the crop that was cultivated grows again and produces yield.
• The advantage of this system is that the crop is harvested again from the same crop. The disadvantage of this system is that there is a possibility of reduced yield, increased disease and pest attack.
• Example: spinach, sugarcane.

INNOVATIVE TRENDS IN AGRICULTURE

• Due to constant change in increasing world population, climate change, and growth of technology, the agricultural activities also change.
• The agricultural sector in India has undergone a radical transformation in the last few decades.
• The shift from traditional agricultural methods to modern agricultural methods using new technology is remarkable.
• Technology has taken on the challenges of agriculture and adopted innovative methods to increase productivity.
• The main objective of technology in the agricultural sector is to help farmers increase agricultural production.

Rain Shelter Farming

• A rain shelter is a roof covered with polythene sheets. By using transparent polythene sheets as a canopy, the crops are protected from excessive rain while receiving the necessary sunlight for farming.
• Rain shelter farming is suitable for achieving high production throughout the year even in adverse weather conditions.

Polyhouse Farming

• Polyhouse farming or Greenhouse farming is a method df artificially creating a suitable environment for plant growth by protecting the plant from heat, rain, cold and sunlight.
• This method of cultivation is done in polyhouses that are completely covered with polythene sheets.

Precision Farming

• Precision farming is a technique that enables maximum production by providing each crop with the required water, nutrients and crop protection materials at the right time and in the right quantity.
• This method can be implemented in rain shelter and open areas.
• The advantages of this farming method are the precise use of water and nutrients, efficient use of machinery, and better management of agricultural land.
• Micro-irrigation (the method of providing water required for plant growth in droplets or fine streams), fertigation, and integrated pest and disease management are the main components of precision farming.

Digital Farming: Digital farming is a farming method that incorporates diverse technologies. Technologies such as big data analysis tools, artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital communication technologies such as mobile phones, digital platforms, robotics, and agricultural advisory apps are used in digital farming.

Vertical Farming: Vertical farming is being used as a viable way to produce food in cities due to urbanisation and scarcity of agricultural land. This technology involves growing crops in vertically stacked, layered, or built-up areas. It uses hydroponic, aeroponic, and aquaponic systems to produce food year-round with minimal water use.

Organic Farming: Organic farming is a farming method that relies on organic pesticides, compost, green manures, crop rotation, machinery, and the like. It completely avoids chemical fertilizers and synthetic chemical pesticides. Plant growth regulators and organically modified seeds are not used in this method.

FERTIGATION
Fertigation is the method ofproviding water-soluble fertilizers through irrigation.

CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE (CSA)
Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) is an approach to help fanners cope with climate change. The main goals are to increase productivity and income, adapt to climate change, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

CHALLENGES FACED BY THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

• Most of the small-scale farmers who use chemical fertilizers and pesticides cannot afford the high price of chemical fertilizers.
• The gradual decline in soil fertility and the high cost of seeds and irrigation, leave farmers in crisis.
• To meet these challenges, the central and state governments are implementing several schemes.(Eg: Njangalum Krishiyilekk”.

Other challenges the agricultural sector faces are follows:

• Neglect of crop rotation
• Loan availability and repayment
• Crop failure/crop loss
• Low prices of agricultural products
• Agricultural debt
• Inadequate mechanisation
• Lack of basic infrastructure
• Climate change
• Inadequate agricultural research

AGRO-BASED SMALL-SCALE AND COTTAGE INDUSTRIES

• Agro-based small-scale and cottage industries are a solution to some extent to the problems faced by the agricultural sector.
• Small-scale and cottage industries that operate locally around us by utilising agricultural resources are of great importance.

Small-scale industries
Small scale industries are industries with an investment not exceeding ten crores and an annual turnover of less than fifty crores.

Cottage industries

• Cottage industries are industries where an individual or a family converts locally available resources into products using traditional techniques.
• The initial investment is low in this industry. Cottage industries rely mainly on the labour force of family members.
• Examples of cottage industries include weaving, carpet making, leather industry, handicraft manufacturing, and small-scale food processing units.
• Cottage industries are the backbone of many rural economies around the world.

The Changing Face Of Agro-Based Small-Scale And Cottage Industries
Agro-based startups are gaining popularity today. The government is giving a lot of encouragement to such startups. Small-scale and cottage industries, which convert fruits and vegetables into various value-added products using simple technologies like grinding, milling, and packaging, have gained importance today. Industries producing Arecanut spathe products, food products, and fruit-based products are mainly based on agricultural products.

Handloom Industry

AGRO PARK: Agro Parks are agricultural product processing centres in Kerala, They ensure farmers income by converting agricultural products into value-added products. Agro parks operate under the Department of Agriculture.

KATHIR APP: (Kerala Agriculture Technology Hub and Information Repository) App is designed to harness the potential of information technology to make farming and its practices smarter. Weather information, crop advisories, market intelligence information, agricultural project information, and agricultural land information will be available through this app. Farmers who register through this app will receive an identity card.

AGRICULTURAL MARKET

• An agricultural market is a system for buying and selling agricultural products.
• An efficient agricultural market is essential for the progress of agriculture.
• The main objectives of an agricultural market are to enable primary producers to earn the best possible income and to provide fair prices while maintaining the quality of agricultural products.

Farmers And Market
It is the right of the farmer to get a fair price for his products. Therefore, farmers are trying to find markets that offer the maximum price. By using online markets, marketing without intermediaries between farmers and consumers, has become possible.

Agricultural Produce Market Committee: The APMC is a board set up by the state governments of the country to protect farmers from exploitation by large-scale and retail traders. The states regulate APMC through the Agricultural Produce Marketing Regulation Act (APMR Act).

Different Types Of Agricultural Markets

• Structured and functional markets are essential for the progress of the agricultural sector.
• Agricultural markets are classified into two categories-Organised Agricultural Market and Unorganised Agricultural Market.
• Organised agricultural markets are those that operate according to the rules and regulations of the government. They operate mainly according to the APMC rules.
• Unorganised agricultural markets are those that operate without a specific structure.

Rural Primary Markets: Rural primary markets are markets where farmers directly sell their produce without intermediaries. They are centred in small villages and are a mechanism of exchange between individuals in the village as main sellers and consumers. Markets meet once or twice a week in open areas. For example: Village markets, Haats.

• Village Haats: Haats are markets where producers, intermediaries and consumers of a village gather to buy and sell agricultural products.
• Mandis: These are permanent wholesale markets in district headquarters and other towns for daily transactions.
• Fairs/Festivals: Fairs are markets held at pilgrimage sites and major centres only during religious festivals or local festivals.

Wholesale Markets or Secondary Wholesale Markets:
Agricultural marketing is done in the state with the support of state self-governing bodies and farmer producer organisation. This is possible through a marketing network established in urban and rural areas. Of the wholesale markets in Kerala, three function in urban areas and three in rural areas. In addition to these, five District Procurement cum Marketing Centres are also functioning. These centres, which are under the Department of Agriculture, operate as per the market rules of the Government of Kerala. Six wholesale markets have also been registered under E-Nam. Apart from these, local market outlets at various levels facilitate the marketing of agricultural produce by mobilising it directly and through farmers’ associations. Marketing is done through the marketing system of Self-help Farmers’ Committees established by VFPCK at the production centres, eliminating intermediaries.

The National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Limited (NAFED) is an organisation that promotes the marketing of agricultural produce and forest resources in India. Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Societies (PACS) strengthen rural agricultural activities by undertaking services such as integration, marketing, value addition, grading, branding and packing of agricultural products.

• Keralagro: The Department of Agriculture has started marketing of agricultural products under a unified brand ‘Keralagro’ to energise the marketing of agricultural products, thereby increasing the income of farmers and making the products available to consumers at fair prices.
• E-Nam: The National Agriculture Market is a scheme launched by the government to enable farmers to sell their products at their will. It is an online platform for agricultural products.

CHALLENGES FACED BY AGRICULTURAL MARKETING

• Inadequate transport facilities
• Lack of access to loans
• Insufficient market information
• Inadequate storage facilities
• Import policies
• Exploitation of intermediaries

VEGETABLE FRUIT PROMOTION COUNCIL KERALA(VFPCK)
The mission of VFPCK is to provide support to the farmers of Kerala in various agricultural activities from seed to marketing to implement fruit and vegetable cultivation on a commercial basis.

KRISHI VIGYAN KENDRA(KVK)
Krishi Vigyan Kendra are institutions established across the country by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to identify and solve the problems of farmers and to transfer them new agricultural technologies and skills.