Question 97 from UPSC CSE 2014 - Environme nt

Question

What are the significances of a practical approach to sugarcane production known as 'Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative'?
1. Seed cost is very low compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
2. Drip irrigation can be practiced effectively.
3. There is no application of chemical/inorganic fertilizers.
4. The scope for intercropping is more compared to the conventional method of cultivation.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: B. 1, 2, and 4 only

Strategy: Focus on identifying which benefits are exclusive and realistic under SSI. The approach is to evaluate each statement:
- Statement 1 (reduced seed cost) is correct due to single-bud planting.
- Statement 2 (drip irrigation) is a valid SSI practice.
- Statement 4 (intercropping) is enabled by wider SSI spacing.
- Statement 3 is incorrect because SSI reduces, not eliminates, chemical fertilizer use.
This analysis justifies selecting option B.

Key Info: ### Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI)

The Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI) is a set of agronomic practices designed to improve productivity and resource use efficiency in sugarcane cultivation. Key characteristics include:

- **Seed Cost:** SSI promotes planting single bud setts rather than traditional three-bud setts, drastically reducing seed requirement and cost.
- **Drip Irrigation:** SSI recommends drip irrigation, allowing for precise, efficient water delivery, crucial for resource conservation and higher yields.
- **Fertilizer Use:** Although SSI emphasizes organic manures and optimal input use, it permits limited application of chemical fertilizers when required for balanced crop nutrition. It does not prohibit chemical/inorganic fertilizer use entirely.
- **Intercropping:** The wider plant spacing inherent in SSI creates sufficient gaps between rows, enabling the cultivation of intercrops like pulses and vegetables, which is more challenging in conventional dense plantings.

SSI aims at sustainability via improved cane quality, water saving, lower input costs, and enhanced farm income, but does not mandate chemical-free cultivation.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 and 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: 2, 3, and 4 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: 1, 2, 3, and 4