Question

Read the following text carefully:

Climate change and sustainability of environment are two pressing issues that have captured global attention. In recent years, the world has witnessed a surge in extreme weather events, including severe droughts, cloud bursts, floods, landslides, receding coastlines, and the alarming melting of Arctic ice and Himalayan Glaciers. Wildfires have become more frequent and intense. In this context, sustainable agriculture emerges as a crucial solution. This refers to those farming practices that meet today’s requirements while preserving resources for the future generation. This means adopting methods that protect the environment, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, efficiently using water and land, and ensuring socio-economic equity for farmers. On one hand, sustainable agricultural practices are necessary; on the other, they are often more expensive to implement compared to conventional methods. Sustainable practices like organic farming, climate - smart technologies, modern irrigation system may seem costly upfront, but they offer long-term benefits by improving productivity and environmental stewardship. Without accessible and affordable financing options, the much-needed shift to sustainable farming practices will remain a distant dream for many. Therefore, sustainable finance should not only promote eco-friendly practices but also ensure that financial resources are available to the farmers who need it. Source: https://website.vbi.org.in/web/rbi/-/speches - interview/financing-for- sustainable-agriculture (adopted and modified)

On the basis of the given text and common understanding, answer the following questions:

1. Given the meaning of Sustainable Agriculture. [1]
2. “Sustainable Agriculture emerges as a crucial solution to the problem of climate change.” [3]
   Do you agree with the given statement? Give valid explanation in support of your answer.
3. Status any two ways to achieve sustainable development. [2]

Answer 1

(a)

The term “sustainable agriculture” refers to growing methods that meet the needs of current generations for food and fiber without making it harder for future generations to meet their own needs. It’s mainly focused on:

• Environmental Protection: Using fewer chemicals and saving water and land.
• Economic Viability: Making sure farmers can make money.
• Social Equity: Fair wages and the health of the society.

Example: Organic farming, crop rotation, and drip irrigation.

(b)

Yes, sustainable agriculture is an important way to fight climate change. In the past few years, the world has seen extreme weather like severe drought, cloud bursts, floods, earthquakes, and the melting of Arctic and Himalayan Glaciers. To protect the resources for future generations, the following safe farming methods are necessary to be used for preservation:

1. Reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers by focusing more on organic fertilizers.
2. Using water and land resources efficiently while guaranteeing socioeconomic equality for farmers.
3. Use eco-friendly measures to boost productivity.
4. Natural resources should be conserved for future generations.

(c)

The two ways to achieve Sustainable Development are as follows:

1. Policy Incentives:
   • Organic farming subsidies, such as India’s Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana.
   • Tax incentives for using renewable energy in agriculture (solar pumps).
2. Farmer Education and Technology:
   • Training on climate-friendly approaches, for example, Zero Budget Natural Farming.
   • Advancing inexpensive technology, such as drip irrigation and soil moisture monitors.

Conclusion: Sustainable agriculture protects against climate change, makes sure there is enough food, and improves the lives of farmers. However, it needs financial and policy help to become widely used.