RPSC Geography: Irrigation in Rajasthan

Low and highly erratic rainfall patterns Rajasthan faces extreme water scarcity due to its geographical location. The Thar Desert covers a large part of the state, resulting in meager precipitation and high evaporation rates. Consequently, natural water sources are insufficient for agriculture, making artificial irrigation systems essential to sustain crop production and meet the food requirements of the growing population in this arid region.

Wells and tubewells Wells and tubewells serve as the primary source of irrigation in Rajasthan, covering over two-thirds of the total irrigated area. This dominance is particularly evident in the eastern and northeastern plains where groundwater is more accessible compared to the arid west. This method provides farmers with independent and reliable water access throughout the year, supporting diverse agricultural cycles.

A-ii, B-iii, C-iv, D-i Tube wells are prevalent in Jaipur and Alwar due to favorable groundwater conditions. Canal irrigation is the lifeline for northern districts like Ganganagar and Hanumangarh. Tank irrigation is traditionally significant in Bhilwara’s hilly terrain. Khadin, a unique runoff farming system, is a centuries-old rainwater harvesting technique practiced primarily by farmers in the Jaisalmer region to sustain desert agriculture.

It relies exclusively on the monsoon-fed rivers originating within the state. Canal irrigation in Rajasthan primarily utilizes water from perennial Himalayan rivers through inter-state agreements. Unlike smaller local projects, these major canals do not rely on the ephemeral rivers originating within the state’s borders. The system is strategically designed to transport water from surplus basins in the north to the water-deficient regions of the western Thar Desert for farming. Click Here to Buy book Irrigation in Rajasthan

I, II and III The Indira Gandhi Canal Project is a multi-state venture originating from the Harike Barrage. Renamed in 1984, it transformed the arid landscape of the Thar Desert into productive agricultural land. By providing a perennial water supply, it facilitated a green revolution, enabling the cultivation of diverse crops and significantly improving the socio-economic conditions and food security of the region.

204 km The Indira Gandhi Feeder Canal is the initial segment of the massive irrigation project, designed specifically to transport water without allowing any intermediate withdrawals. It starts at the Harike Barrage in Punjab and travels approximately 204 kilometers before entering Rajasthan at Masitawali Head. This feeder ensures the efficient and rapid delivery of water to the main canal distribution system.

To supply water to the higher elevated eastern areas The topography of western Rajasthan involves varying elevations, where some regions are higher than the main canal level. Lift canals utilize powerful pumping stations to raise water to these elevated eastern areas. This mechanical lifting allows the benefits of the Indira Gandhi Canal to reach territories that cannot be irrigated through simple gravity-based flow systems, ensuring wider water distribution.

A is true but R is false. While the Indira Gandhi Canal has revolutionized desert agriculture and ecology, it has also introduced significant environmental challenges. Intensive irrigation in regions with poor natural drainage has led to rising water tables. This phenomenon causes widespread waterlogging and soil salinity, often referred to as the ‘Sem’ problem, rather than eliminating it, which can eventually render agricultural land completely unproductive. on Amazon grown in the Thar (5) Question not attempted 2

Bhikhabhai Sagwara Canal The Indira Gandhi Canal Project features several lift canals, such as Kanwar Sen and Panna Lal Barupal, designed to irrigate elevated desert lands. In contrast, the Bhikhabhai Sagwara Canal is a distinct irrigation project located in southern Rajasthan. It is designed to utilize the waters of the Mahi River to benefit the tribal-dominated Dungarpur district through traditional gravity flow.

I, II and IV The Indira Gandhi Canal Project was executed in two major phases to systematically extend its reach across the desert. Phase I focused on the northern districts, while Phase II reached the deep west. While the main canal provides gravity flow to the right side, lift canals serve the left. The project’s terminal point was eventually extended to Gadra Road.

Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect. Most branches of the Indira Gandhi Canal take off from the right bank because the natural land slope facilitates gravity flow in that direction. The Rawatsar branch is the notable exception, originating from the left bank. Contrary to certain misconceptions, the general terrain slope is towards the west and south, making right-bank distribution more feasible for irrigation across the command.

Satluj and Beas The Indira Gandhi Canal relies on a perennial supply of water diverted from the Satluj and Beas rivers. This water is collected at the Harike Barrage in Punjab. This reliable source is crucial for sustaining the extensive irrigation network across the arid Thar Desert, where local rainfall and seasonal rivers are insufficient to support intensive modern agricultural activities and human settlements.

A-iii, B-ii, C-i, D-iv Several lift canals of the Indira Gandhi Canal Project were renamed to honor prominent figures. The Bikaner-Lunkaransar canal became the Kanwar Sen Lift Canal. The Gajner canal was renamed Panna Lal Barupal, while the Kolayat and Phalodi canals were renamed Dr. Karni Singh and Guru Jambheshwar lift canals, Click Here to Buy book respectively. These canals are vital for providing water to elevated desert regions.

Hanumangarh The Indira Gandhi Main Canal enters Rajasthan at Masitawali Head, which is located in the Hanumangarh district. This entry point marks the transition from the feeder canal to the main distribution system. From this location, the canal continues its journey southwestwards, providing essential water for irrigation and drinking purposes to several thirsty districts across the western desert of the state.

I, II, III and IV The Indira Gandhi Canal network is a massive infrastructure project benefiting several arid districts. Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Churu, and Hanumangarh receive significant water for irrigation and drinking. However, Udaipur is located in the hilly southern part of the state and falls outside the command area of this canal system, relying instead on local rivers and different southern irrigation projects.

Kanwar Sen Lift Canal The Kanwar Sen Lift Canal is recognized as the longest among the lift canals of the Indira Gandhi Canal Project. It was formerly known as the Bikaner-Lunkaransar Lift Canal. This engineering marvel was named after the visionary engineer who first conceived the idea of bringing Himalayan waters to the Rajasthan desert, playing a pivotal role in the entire project’s technical development.

Gadra Road The Indira Gandhi Canal project was designed to stretch deep into the western desert. While the main canal concludes earlier, the extended distribution network, including the Sagarmal Gopa branch, reaches its final operational destination at Gadra Road in the Barmer district. This expansion ensures that even the most remote border areas benefit from the life-giving waters of this massive system.

Chaudhary Kumbharam - Kanwar Sen - Panna Lal Barupal - Dr. Karni Singh The lift canals of the Indira Gandhi Canal are arranged geographically to serve different latitudes. From north to south, the sequence on Amazon D. Sawan Bhadon List II: (District) i. Kota ii. Jhalawar iii. Bhilwara iv. Udaipur (1) A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i (2) A-iii, B-iv, C-i, D-ii (3) A-iv, B-ii, C-iii, D-i (4) A-i, B-iii, C-ii, D-iv (5) Question not attempted 1

Gang Canal The Gang Canal is celebrated as the oldest modern canal irrigation system in Rajasthan. Built in the early 20th century, it served as a precursor to larger subsequent projects like the Indira Gandhi Canal. It demonstrated the feasibility of transforming desert lands through large-scale engineering, setting a historical precedent for water management and agricultural development in the arid princely states.

1927 Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, often called the “Modern Bhagirath,” spearheaded the construction of the Gang Canal. The project was a landmark achievement in irrigation engineering and was officially completed in 1927. Its success brought life-sustaining water to the northern desert, laying the foundation for the region’s future prosperity and serving as a model for subsequent large-scale irrigation projects.

Husainiwala on the Satluj river The Gang Canal originates from the Satluj River at Husainiwala, located near Firozpur in Punjab. From this point, it carries water into the Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan. This strategic diversion was the first major attempt to bring Himalayan water to the Thar Desert, significantly altering the landscape and agricultural potential of the Bikaner state’s northern territories during that era.

It transformed the dry, arid region into a major grain-producing hub. Before the advent of the Gang Canal, the northern part of the Bikaner state was a sparsely populated, arid wasteland. The introduction of canal water transformed this region into a highly productive agricultural zone, now known as the “food basket” of Rajasthan. This socio-economic shift led to increased settlement, improved livelihoods, and the emergence of major grain- producing hubs. Click Here to Buy book Irrigation in Rajasthan

A-ii, B-i, C-iv, D-iii Rajasthan participates in several multi-state projects. Bhakra Nangal involves Punjab and Haryana. The Chambal Valley is a joint venture with Madhya Pradesh. The Mahi Bajaj Sagar project is shared with Gujarat, primarily benefiting southern tribal areas. The Narmada Canal involves Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, bringing water to the most arid southern districts of the state through sprinklers.

Hanumangarh and Churu The Bhakra Canal system is a major source of irrigation for northern Rajasthan. The primary beneficiary districts are Hanumangarh and Churu. This canal network utilizes water from the Bhakra Dam on the Satluj River. It has played a crucial role in stabilizing agriculture in these regions, which were previously dependent on erratic rainfall and seasonal streams for their agricultural water needs.

I and III The Gang Canal was officially inaugurated by the then Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin, in 1927. It draws water from the Satluj River at Husainiwala. The system includes several key distribution branches such as Laxminarayanji, Lalgarh, Karni, and Sameja. These branches are essential for distributing water across the fertile plains of the present-day Sri Ganganagar district for intensive farming.

15.22 percent Rajasthan is a significant partner in the Bhakra Nangal joint venture, which was established to share the waters of the Satluj River. The state’s allocated share in this massive hydroelectric and irrigation project is approximately 15.22 percent. This share ensures a steady supply of both water and electricity, supporting the agricultural and industrial growth of the state’s northern districts.

Total irrigation potential serves only the state of Rajasthan. The Chambal Valley Project is a comprehensive joint venture between Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, sharing costs and benefits equally. It consists of four major dams built in three phases. While the project generates immense power and provides irrigation to Rajasthan, the assertion on Amazon (3) Mahi Basin which originates in Madhya Pradesh and flows through Banswara (4) Sabarmati Basin draining the Aravalli hills before entering the state of Gujarat (5) Question not attempted 2 Downloaded from (5) Question not attempted 3

Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. The Chambal Valley Project has revolutionized agriculture in south-eastern Rajasthan by providing a reliable water supply. The Kota Barrage is unique in the series as it is used exclusively for irrigation via its canal systems, whereas the other three dams are also utilized for power generation. While both statements are factual, the specific function of the barrage does not explain agricultural productivity.

Parts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh The Right Main Canal of the Chambal Project, which begins at the Kota Barrage, is an inter-state distribution channel. It traverses through the districts of Kota and Baran in Rajasthan before entering Madhya Pradesh. This infrastructure is vital for the agricultural stability of both states, showcasing a successful model of cooperative water management between neighboring regional governments for shared irrigation benefits.

II, III and IV The Chambal River cascade includes four major structures. Gandhi Sagar is located in Madhya Pradesh. The remaining three—Rana Pratap Sagar in Chittorgarh, Jawahar Sagar in Kota, and the Kota Barrage—are situated within the geographical boundaries of Rajasthan. These structures are essential for regulating river flow, generating electricity, and providing water for extensive irrigation throughout the state’s south- eastern region.

Gandhi Sagar Gandhi Sagar Dam is the first and largest of the four dams built on the Chambal River. It is located in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh. It serves as the primary storage reservoir for the entire cascade system, regulating the water flow that is subsequently used by the downstream dams in Rajasthan for both power generation and irrigation purposes through canals.

Kota and Bundi The Left Main Canal originating from the Kota Barrage is designed to serve the irrigation needs Downloaded from within Rajasthan. It specifically provides water to the agricultural lands of the Kota and Bundi districts. This canal system has significantly boosted the production of water-intensive crops in these areas, contributing to the overall agricultural prosperity and economic stability of the south-eastern part of the state.

A-iii, B-i, C-iv, D-ii Irrigation dams in Rajasthan are strategically located. The Jawai Dam is in Pali, often called the lifeline of Marwar. Bisalpur Dam, the state’s largest, is situated in Tonk. Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam is located in Banswara to serve tribal areas. Rana Pratap Sagar, a major hydroelectric and irrigation structure on the Chambal River, is situated in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan.

Jawai Dam Bisalpur, Meja, and Isarda dams are all part of the Banas River basin or its tributaries. In contrast, the Jawai Dam is built on the Jawai River, which is a major tributary of the Luni River. This makes the Jawai Dam a part of the Luni basin, distinguishing it from the other reservoirs that belong to the Banas drainage system geographically.

I, II and III The Chambal Canal irrigation system is a major contributor to the agricultural output of south- eastern Rajasthan. The principal command area for this network encompasses the districts of Kota, Bundi, and Baran. These districts benefit from an extensive network of canals originating from the Kota Barrage, enabling the cultivation of various cash crops and enhancing local rural economies through reliable water.

Mahi Bajaj Sagar Project The Mahi Bajaj Sagar Project is a vital multi- purpose venture designed to promote the welfare of the tribal populations in southern Rajasthan. By harnessing the waters of the Mahi River, it provides irrigation and drinking water primarily to the Banswara and Dungarpur districts. This project has been instrumental in improving the agricultural productivity and socio-economic status of these southern tribal regions. Given below are two statements, one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R): Assertion (A): Gypsum mining in Rajasthan holds immense agricultural significance in northern India. Reason (R): Gypsum is widely used as a soil amendment to reclaim alkaline and saline soils. (1) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. (2) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A. (3) A is true but R is false. (4) A is false but R is true. (5) Question not attempted 1

Cavalry warfare and equestrian sports The Marwari horse is historically legendary for its role in cavalry warfare, serving the warrior clans of Rajasthan with bravery and endurance. Today, its unique beauty and spirited nature make it highly sought after for equestrian sports, ceremonies, and heritage tourism. It is not used for heavy agricultural labor or milk production, as its value lies in its agility and status.

A-iii, B-iv, C-i, D-ii The Rajasthan dairy cooperative structure operates through multiple levels. The Rajasthan Cooperative Dairy Federation is the apex body, while District Milk Unions manage operations at the regional level. At the grassroots, Village Milk Producer Cooperative Societies collect milk directly from farmers. SARAS is the commercial brand used to sell the processed products, completing the link from producer to consumer.

Kartik The world-famous Pushkar livestock fair is held during the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, typically falling in October or November. This fair coincides with a sacred pilgrimage, attracting thousands of traders and tourists. While it is a significant religious event, the fair is equally important for the massive scale of camel and horse trading that takes place on the sandy dunes of Ajmer.

Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect The Mukhyamantri Pashudhan Nischulk Dawa Yojana is a state government flagship scheme that provides essential veterinary medicines free of charge to livestock owners. This initiative aims to reduce the economic burden on farmers and improve animal health. However, the scheme is funded by the state government rather than the World Bank, making Statement II factually incorrect in its funding source.

Erratic rainfall patterns leading to poor growth of natural pastures and grasses Western Rajasthan suffers from persistent fodder scarcity primarily due to erratic and low rainfall, which prevents the consistent growth of natural grasses and pastures. This environmental constraint limits the carrying capacity of the land for livestock. While irrigation has expanded in some areas, the vast majority of the region remains dependent on unpredictable rains for the survival of grazing vegetation.

A, B, C Geographically, the Rathi breed is native to the northernmost districts like Bikaner and Ganganagar. Moving south, the Nagori breed is predominantly found in the central district of Nagaur. Further south, the Gir cattle, also Livestock and Animal Husbandry known as Ajmera, are concentrated in the Ajmer and Bhilwara regions. This north-to-south distribution reflects the climatic and regional adaptations of these specific indigenous cattle breeds.

Surti Bikaneri, Jaisalmeri, and Balotra are recognized as regional breeds or varieties of camels in Rajasthan. In contrast, Surti is the name of a breed associated with buffaloes and goats, not camels. Therefore, Surti is the odd one out in this group of species-specific categories. Understanding breed names is essential for identifying the diverse livestock populations found across the state’s various districts.

The Sirohi breed is primarily reared for producing fine pashmina wool Goats are highly adapted to the harsh Rajasthan climate, providing liquidity and nutrition to rural families. However, Statement II is incorrect because the Sirohi breed is reared for meat and milk, not pashmina. Pashmina is a fine wool produced by specific goat breeds in the high- altitude Himalayan regions of Kashmir and Ladakh, rather than the semi-arid plains of Rajasthan.

II and III only While Chokla is indeed found in Shekhawati, the Marwari sheep is known for carpet-grade wool, not fine apparel wool. Additionally, sheep population density is highest in the arid and semi- arid western districts where they can graze on natural pastures, rather than the humid eastern regions. These western areas offer the extensive land required for the traditional migratory lifestyle of Rajasthan’s sheep flocks.

Bikaner Bikaner is officially recognized as home to Asia’s largest wool market or mandi. This city serves as the central hub for the collection, grading, and trading of wool produced across the state. The presence of this market, along with numerous wool processing units, reinforces Bikaner’s historical and economic significance in the national wool industry, supported by the surrounding sheep-rearing heartland. (5) Question not attempted 4

Jaipur and Ajmer The Bisalpur Dam is the primary lifeline for several major urban centers in central Rajasthan. It provides a steady supply of drinking water to the capital city of Jaipur, as well as the city of Ajmer. This project has significantly reduced the dependence of these growing metropolitan areas on depleting groundwater resources, ensuring a more sustainable urban water management system.

A is true but R is false. Well and tubewell irrigation is prevalent in eastern Rajasthan where soil is alluvial and groundwater is relatively shallow. Conversely, in the western desert districts, the presence of hard rock layers and extremely deep, often saline, aquifers makes traditional well digging difficult and expensive. This geographical constraint limits the feasibility of widespread groundwater-based irrigation in the west, contradicting the reasoning provided.

A severe problem of waterlogging and soil salinity in canal command areas In the context of Rajasthan’s canal command areas, ‘Sem’ refers to the detrimental environmental phenomenon of waterlogging. It occurs when excessive irrigation and seepage cause the water table to rise to the surface. This leads to soil salinity and alkalinity, making the land unfit for cultivation and posing a major challenge to the sustainability of long-term canal irrigation projects in deserts.

I, II and III The Bisalpur Dam, built on the Banas River in Tonk, is Rajasthan’s largest concrete gravity dam and a vital drinking water source for Jaipur. While it provides irrigation to surrounding areas in Tonk and Sawai Madhopur, it does not serve the northern districts of Ganganagar and Hanumangarh, which are instead irrigated by the Gang, Bhakra, and Indira Gandhi canal systems.

Bhilwara Tank irrigation is a traditional method where rainwater is collected in large depressions or constructed reservoirs. This method is Click Here to Buy book most prominent in the Bhilwara district. The region’s hilly and rocky topography makes the construction of tanks and the storage of surface runoff more feasible and effective compared to the sandy plains of the west or the northern canal irrigation belts.

Jaisalmer The Bisalpur Project is designed to supply drinking water to several districts in central and eastern Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Ajmer, and Tonk. However, Jaisalmer is located in the far western part of the state and falls entirely outside the reach of the Bisalpur distribution network. Jaisalmer relies instead on the Indira Gandhi Canal and local traditional water harvesting methods.

A-ii, B-iii, C-iv, D-i Irrigation projects in Rajasthan draw water from various rivers. The Gang Canal uses the Satluj. The Indira Gandhi Main Canal draws from the confluence of the Satluj and Beas at Harike. The Narmada Canal utilizes water from the Narmada River via the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The Gurgaon Canal is supplied by the Yamuna River to irrigate the Bharatpur district.

Deep aquifers obstructed by hard rock topography In southern Rajasthan, the rugged terrain of the Aravalli hills and the underlying hard granitic rock structures pose significant challenges to groundwater extraction. These geological features make the digging of wells and tubewells difficult and costly. Consequently, farmers in these regions often rely more on surface water sources, such as seasonal rivers and tanks, for their various agricultural irrigation needs.

I, II and III The expansion of canal irrigation in the western desert has introduced several ecological problems. Primary among these are waterlogging, also known as ‘Sem’, and the resulting soil salinity and alkalinity. These issues occur because the intensive application of water in an arid environment with poor natural drainage causes the water table to rise, bringing harmful salts to the soil surface. on Amazon

Gypsum Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral widely used in Rajasthan for soil reclamation. It is particularly effective in treating soils that have become unproductive due to high alkalinity and waterlogging, common problems in canal command areas. By applying gypsum, farmers can improve soil structure and neutralize harmful salts, thereby restoring the fertility of the land for agricultural use and production.

Both statements are correct, and Statement II explains Statement I. In the Indira Gandhi Canal command area, soil salinity is exacerbated by the presence of a subsurface hardpan of gypsum or clay. This layer prevents the downward percolation of excess irrigation water, leading to a perched water table. Through capillary action, water rises to the surface and evaporates, leaving behind salts that degrade the soil and create the waterlogging problem.

C, A, B, D Wells and tubewells are the largest source of irrigation in Rajasthan, followed by canals. Tanks contribute a smaller but significant portion, particularly in certain hilly districts, while other traditional sources make up the remainder. This descending order reflects the state’s heavy reliance on groundwater, despite the high-profile nature of large-scale canal projects like the Indira Gandhi Canal system.

Implementing sub-surface drainage to mitigate waterlogging in the Chambal area The Rajasthan Agricultural Drainage Research Project, known as RAJAD, was a collaborative initiative between the governments of India and Canada. Its primary focus was to address the severe waterlogging and soil salinity issues in the Chambal Canal command area. The project implemented advanced sub-surface drainage technologies to reclaim salt-affected lands and improve agricultural productivity in the south- eastern region.

Blocks where groundwater extraction significantly exceeds the natural recharge Groundwater authorities designate certain areas as ‘Dark Zones’ when the rate of groundwater extraction for agriculture and other uses far Irrigation in Rajasthan exceeds the natural recharge from rainfall. In these blocks, the water table is depleting at an alarming rate. Such a classification often leads to strict regulations on the installation of new tubewells to prevent the total exhaustion of aquifers.

Bharatpur The history of modern groundwater extraction in Rajasthan began in the early 20th century. The state’s first tubewell was established in 1930 in the Bharatpur district. This pioneering effort marked a shift towards utilizing deep underground aquifers for irrigation, a practice that would eventually expand across the state and become the dominant method of watering crops in many agricultural regions.

Safeda (Eucalyptus) To combat the rising water table and waterlogging in the Indira Gandhi Canal area, ‘biological drainage’ is employed. This involves planting Safeda, or Eucalyptus trees, which have high transpiration rates. These trees act as natural pumps, drawing excess water from the ground and releasing it into the atmosphere, thereby helping to lower the water table and reclaim waterlogged agricultural lands.

A-iii, B-iv, C-i, D-ii Key terms in Rajasthan’s water management include ‘Sem’, which refers to waterlogging and salinity. The ‘Command Area’ is the region served by a specific canal. ‘Dark Zones’ are areas with over-exploited groundwater. ‘Biological Drainage’ is the use of specific plants like Eucalyptus to manage excess soil moisture. These concepts are crucial for studying the state’s complex irrigation landscape.

Narmada Canal Project The Narmada Canal Project in Rajasthan is a pioneer in water conservation technology. It was the first major project in India to make the use of sprinkler irrigation mandatory for the entire command area. This policy was implemented to ensure maximum water use efficiency and to prevent the common problems of waterlogging and soil salinity associated with traditional flood irrigation.

I and II Micro-irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems are highly effective in arid regions. The Narmada Canal Project mandates these methods to optimize limited water resources. By delivering water directly to the root zone or as a fine spray, these systems significantly reduce evaporation and seepage losses. They are essential for sustainable desert agriculture and long-term land productivity.

Horticulture and fruit orchards Drip irrigation is a precision method that is most economically and agronomically suitable for high-value horticulture and fruit orchards. In Rajasthan, this system is widely used for growing crops like citrus fruits, pomegranates, and olives. It allows for efficient water use, reduces weed growth, and ensures that plants receive the optimal amount of moisture and nutrients for maximum yield.

Jalore The Narmada Canal carries water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat into the arid regions of Rajasthan. It enters the state specifically in the Jalore district at Silu village. This project is a lifeline for the parched southern districts of Jalore and Barmer, providing essential water for irrigation through an advanced and regulated micro-irrigation distribution network system.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. Rajasthan faces a severe water crisis, holding 10 percent of India’s land but only 1 percent of its surface water. This massive disparity makes the promotion of highly efficient drip and sprinkler irrigation technologies absolutely vital. Adopting these micro-irrigation methods is the only way to ensure a sustainable agricultural future for the state while managing its extremely limited resources.

Jalore and Barmer The Narmada Canal Project is specifically designed to provide irrigation and drinking water to the southernmost arid districts of Rajasthan. The primary beneficiaries of this project are the Jalore and Barmer districts. By utilizing a mandatory sprinkler system, the project aims to transform the local agricultural economy while preventing the environmental degradation often caused by traditional flood irrigation techniques.

I, II, III and IV Rajasthan has implemented various initiatives to manage its water resources. RAJAD focuses on drainage and waterlogging. The Mukhya Mantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan promotes local water harvesting. The Command Area Development Programme improves canal efficiency. The Narmada Project mandates micro- irrigation. Together, these programs represent a multi-pronged approach to improving water use efficiency and addressing the ecological challenges of agricultural irrigation.

Ravi and Beas The Rajiv Gandhi Siddhmukh-Nohar Irrigation Project was designed to utilize Rajasthan’s share of the surplus waters from the Ravi and Beas rivers. This water is diverted to provide irrigation to the parched northern plains. The project is a result of inter-state water sharing agreements and represents a significant effort to stabilize agriculture in areas far from perennial water sources.

Churu and Hanumangarh The Rajiv Gandhi Siddhmukh-Nohar Irrigation Project primarily benefits the northern districts of Churu and Hanumangarh. By bringing diverted Himalayan water to these arid regions, the project has enabled farmers to cultivate crops more reliably. This has had a positive impact on the local economy and helped mitigate the effects of frequent droughts that characterize these desert-edge districts.

A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i Rajasthan has numerous medium-scale irrigation projects. Som Kagdar is located in Udaipur. The Meja Dam is built on the Kothari River in Bhilwara. The Chhapi Project serves the Jhalawar district. The Sawan Bhadon project is a significant irrigation facility in Kota. These projects are essential for providing localized water security and supporting agriculture in their respective districts and surrounding areas.

Som Kamla Amba - Dungarpur The Som Kamla Amba project is a major irrigation initiative located in the Dungarpur district, II. Rajpura-Dariba is a prominent lead-zinc mining area located in the Rajsamand district. III. Rampura-Agucha is primarily known for its extensive underground mining operations for iron ore. Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? (1) I and II only (2) II and III only (3) I and III only (4) I, II and III (5) Question not attempted 1

I, II, III, IV and V Rajasthan is home to numerous iconic livestock fairs that serve as critical economic and cultural hubs. Fairs in Pushkar, Nagaur, and Tilwara are world-renowned for trading camels, Nagori cattle, and other breeds. These events are often named after local deities or folk heroes like Mallinath ji and Ramdev ji, reflecting the deep spiritual and social connections between the people and their animals.

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is a central government scheme designed to provide insurance coverage for agricultural crops against natural calamities. It is not directly related to the livestock or dairy sector. In contrast, schemes like Pashu Bima Yojana and Mukhyamantri Pashudhan Nischulk Dawa Yojana are specifically aimed at supporting animal health and providing insurance for the state’s domestic animals.

B, D, A, C Managing fodder scarcity during a drought involves a structured administrative process. It begins with the official assessment and declaration of drought conditions. This is followed by procuring fodder from surplus areas and establishing subsidized fodder banks or depots. Finally, the collected fodder is distributed to the affected farmers to ensure the survival of their livestock during the period of extreme environmental stress. Livestock and Animal Husbandry

A-i, B-iii, C-ii, D-iv Institutions in Rajasthan have specialized domains. RCDF manages cooperative dairy and milk processing. CSWRI is dedicated to sheep and wool research, while NRCC focuses on camel breed improvement and health. The State Animal Husbandry Department provides essential veterinary services and manages disease control programs. This division of labor ensures that every livestock species receives scientific and administrative attention for its development.

5 years The livestock census in India is conducted every five years to accurately track changes in animal populations across different species and breeds. This periodic data collection is essential for the state and central governments to formulate effective policies for animal husbandry and veterinary services. The census provides insights into the economic health of the rural sector and helps in planning resource allocation.

Native to the western districts of Jaisalmer and Barmer The Gir cattle breed is natively from the Gir forest of Gujarat and is predominantly found in the central districts of Rajasthan like Ajmer and Bhilwara. It is not native to the western desert districts of Jaisalmer and Barmer, which are the tracts for breeds like Tharparkar. Gir cattle are distinguished by their high milk yield and unique physical features like convex foreheads.