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Industries and Agriculture – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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Industries and Agriculture

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5th

5th - Social Studies (SST)

Industries and Agriculture

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Chapter Overview: Industries and Agriculture

This chapter explores the importance of industries and agriculture in our daily lives and their role in the economy. It covers different types of industries, the process of agricultural production, and how both sectors contribute to the development of a nation.

Industry: An economic activity concerned with the processing of raw materials and manufacturing of goods in factories.

Agriculture: The practice of cultivating crops and rearing animals for food, fiber, and other products.

Types of Industries

Industries can be classified into three main types:

  • Primary Industries: Involve extraction of raw materials (e.g., mining, fishing).
  • Secondary Industries: Involve manufacturing and processing (e.g., textile, automobile).
  • Tertiary Industries: Provide services (e.g., banking, transportation).

Agricultural Practices

Agriculture includes various activities such as:

  • Crop Cultivation: Growing crops like wheat, rice, and pulses.
  • Animal Husbandry: Rearing livestock for milk, meat, and wool.
  • Horticulture: Cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Importance of Industries and Agriculture

Both sectors are crucial for:

  • Providing employment opportunities.
  • Supporting economic growth.
  • Ensuring food security and availability of goods.

Challenges Faced

Some common challenges include:

  • Climate change affecting agricultural yields.
  • Pollution caused by industrial activities.
  • Need for sustainable practices in both sectors.

Conclusion

Industries and agriculture are the backbone of a country's economy. Understanding their functions and challenges helps us appreciate their significance and work towards sustainable development.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
Name one cash crop grown in India.
Answer:

Cotton is a major cash crop grown in India, used for making textiles.

Question 2:
What is the role of industries in a country's economy?
Answer:

Industries create jobs, produce goods, and help in the growth of a country's economy.

Question 3:
Name one agro-based industry in India.
Answer:

The sugar industry is an agro-based industry that processes sugarcane.

Question 4:
Why is soil conservation important?
Answer:

Soil conservation prevents erosion and maintains fertility for sustainable farming.

Question 5:
What are rabi crops? Give one example.
Answer:

Rabi crops are grown in winter. Example: Wheat.

Question 6:
How do small-scale industries help local communities?
Answer:

Small-scale industries provide employment and support local economies by producing goods like handicrafts.

Question 7:
Give an example of a small-scale industry.
Answer:

Handloom weaving is a small-scale industry where artisans create fabrics using traditional methods.

Question 8:
How does the Green Revolution help farmers?
Answer:

The Green Revolution introduced high-yielding crop varieties, fertilizers, and modern techniques, increasing agricultural productivity.

Question 9:
Why are industries important for a country's development?
Answer:

Industries create jobs, produce goods for daily use, and contribute to economic growth by increasing trade and exports.

Question 10:
Name one agro-based industry and its raw material.
Answer:

The sugar industry is an agro-based industry that uses sugarcane as its raw material.

Question 11:
How does deforestation affect agriculture?
Answer:

Deforestation leads to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and reduced rainfall, making farming difficult and lowering crop yields.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
What is the main difference between primary and secondary industries?
Answer:

Primary industries involve extracting raw materials directly from nature, like farming or mining. Secondary industries process these raw materials into finished goods, like making bread from wheat.

Question 2:
Name two cash crops grown in India and their uses.
Answer:

  • Sugarcane: Used to make sugar and jaggery.
  • Cotton: Used to make clothes and textiles.

Question 3:
Why is agriculture important for India?
Answer:

Agriculture provides food for people, raw materials for industries, and employment to many. It also contributes to the country's economy.

Question 4:
What are mineral-based industries? Give one example.
Answer:

Industries that use minerals as raw materials to produce goods. Example: Iron and steel industry, which makes tools and machinery.

Question 5:
How does irrigation help farmers?
Answer:

Irrigation provides water to crops when rainfall is insufficient, ensuring consistent growth and higher yields. It helps farmers grow crops throughout the year.

Question 6:
Name two agro-based industries and their products.
Answer:

  • Textile industry: Produces clothes from cotton.
  • Food processing industry: Makes products like biscuits and jams from crops.

Question 7:
What is the role of monsoons in Indian agriculture?
Answer:

Monsoons bring rainfall, which is crucial for watering crops. Most Indian farmers depend on monsoon rains for growing kharif crops like rice and maize.

Question 8:
Why are small-scale industries important for rural areas?
Answer:

They provide employment opportunities, use local resources, and help in the economic development of rural communities. Examples include handicrafts and pottery.

Question 9:
Name two factors that influence the location of an industry.
Answer:

  • Availability of raw materials (like cotton for textile industries)
  • Access to transportation (roads, ports) for easy distribution

Question 10:
Why is agriculture considered the backbone of India's economy?
Answer:

Agriculture provides food for the population, raw materials for industries, and employment to millions. It also contributes to the country's exports.

Question 11:
What is the purpose of irrigation in farming?
Answer:

Irrigation ensures a steady supply of water to crops, especially in areas with irregular rainfall. It helps increase crop yield and supports farming throughout the year.

Question 12:
Give two examples of cash crops grown in India.
Answer:

  • Sugarcane (used for sugar production)
  • Cotton (used in textile industries)

Question 13:
How does modern farming differ from traditional farming?
Answer:

Modern farming uses machines, chemical fertilizers, and high-yield seeds, while traditional farming relies on manual labor, natural fertilizers, and local seeds.

Question 14:
What role do industries play in a country's development?
Answer:

Industries create jobs, produce goods for daily use, and contribute to the economy. They also help in technological advancement and infrastructure growth.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What is the difference between primary and secondary industries? Give one example of each.
Answer:

Primary industries involve the extraction of raw materials directly from nature, such as farming, mining, or fishing.
Secondary industries process these raw materials into finished goods, like manufacturing cars or making textiles.
Example of primary industry: Agriculture (growing crops).
Example of secondary industry: Steel production (using iron ore to make steel).

Question 2:
Why is agriculture important for a country's economy?
Answer:

Agriculture is important because:

  • It provides food for the population.
  • It supplies raw materials for industries like cotton for textiles.
  • It creates employment for many people, especially in rural areas.
  • It contributes to the country's exports, earning foreign money.

Without agriculture, a country would struggle to feed its people and support industries.

Question 3:
Name three factors that influence the location of an industry.
Answer:

The three factors are:

  • Availability of raw materials (industries are often near sources).
  • Transport and infrastructure (roads, ports for easy movement).
  • Availability of labor (skilled workers in the area).

For example, a sugar factory is usually set up near sugarcane farms to reduce transport costs.

Question 4:
How does modern technology help in improving agricultural production?
Answer:

Modern technology helps in:

  • Better irrigation (drip irrigation saves water).
  • High-yield seeds (produce more crops).
  • Use of tractors and machines (speeds up farming).
  • Weather forecasting (helps farmers plan better).

This leads to increased food production and supports farmers economically.

Question 5:
What are the environmental impacts of industries? Suggest one way to reduce them.
Answer:

Industries cause:

  • Air pollution (smoke from factories).
  • Water pollution (chemical waste in rivers).
  • Deforestation (clearing land for factories).

Solution: Using cleaner technologies like solar energy instead of coal can reduce pollution.

Question 6:
Explain how industries and agriculture depend on each other.
Answer:

Industries and agriculture are interdependent:

  • Agriculture supplies raw materials (like cotton for textile industries).
  • Industries provide tools and fertilizers to improve farming.
  • Food processing industries depend on farm produce.

Without agriculture, industries would lack materials, and without industries, farmers would struggle with outdated tools.

Question 7:
How does irrigation help in agriculture? Name two common methods of irrigation.
Answer:

Irrigation ensures crops receive sufficient water, especially in areas with irregular rainfall. It improves crop yield and supports farming throughout the year.

Two common methods are:

  • Canal irrigation (water from rivers)
  • Drip irrigation (water drips slowly to plant roots)

Question 8:
Why is soil fertility important for agriculture? Mention two ways to maintain it.
Answer:

Soil fertility ensures healthy plant growth and high crop yields. Fertile soil contains essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.

Two ways to maintain it:

  • Using organic manure (like compost)
  • Crop rotation (changing crops seasonally to replenish nutrients)

Question 9:
What are cash crops? Provide two examples and explain their importance.
Answer:

Cash crops are grown for sale rather than personal use. They boost farmers' income and support industries.

Examples:

  • Cotton (used in textile industry)
  • Sugarcane (processed into sugar)

Question 10:
Describe the role of industries in the economic development of a country.
Answer:

Industries contribute to economic growth by:

  • Creating jobs for people
  • Producing goods for daily use and export
  • Generating revenue for the government
They also improve infrastructure and technology.

Question 11:
How does modern machinery benefit agriculture? List two advantages.
Answer:

Modern machinery makes farming faster and more efficient.

Advantages:

  • Tractors plow fields quickly compared to manual labor
  • Harvesters reduce time and effort in crop collection
This increases productivity and reduces human effort.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain the importance of agriculture in India and how it supports the economy. Include examples of major crops grown in different regions.
Answer:

Agriculture is the backbone of India's economy as it provides employment to a large portion of the population and contributes significantly to the GDP. It ensures food security for the country and supplies raw materials to various industries like textiles, sugar, and food processing.

Different regions in India grow different crops due to variations in climate and soil:

  • Punjab and Haryana: Known for wheat and rice due to fertile soil and good irrigation.
  • Maharashtra and Karnataka: Major producers of sugarcane and cotton.
  • Kerala: Famous for spices like black pepper and cardamom.

Agriculture also supports exports, with India being a leading producer of crops like rice, wheat, and tea, which are sold to other countries.

Question 2:
Describe the role of industries in the development of a country. Compare agro-based and mineral-based industries with examples.
Answer:

Industries play a crucial role in a country's development by creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and boosting the economy. They produce goods for daily use and for export, helping the country earn money.

Agro-based industries use agricultural products as raw materials. Examples include:

  • Textile industry (cotton, jute)
  • Sugar industry (sugarcane)

Mineral-based industries rely on minerals like iron, coal, and bauxite. Examples include:

  • Steel industry (iron ore)
  • Cement industry (limestone)

Both types of industries contribute to employment and economic growth, but agro-based industries support farmers, while mineral-based industries help in building infrastructure like roads and bridges.

Question 3:
Explain the importance of agriculture in India and how it supports the economy. Provide examples of major crops grown in different regions.
Answer:

Agriculture is the backbone of India's economy as it provides employment to a large portion of the population and contributes significantly to the GDP. It ensures food security for the country and supplies raw materials to various industries like textiles, sugar, and food processing.

Different regions in India grow different crops due to variations in climate and soil. For example:

  • Punjab and Haryana are known for wheat and rice due to fertile soil and good irrigation.
  • Maharashtra grows sugarcane and cotton because of its black soil.
  • Kerala produces spices like pepper and cardamom due to its tropical climate.

Agriculture also supports exports, earning foreign exchange for the country. For instance, India is a leading exporter of basmati rice and tea.

Question 4:
Describe the differences between primary, secondary, and tertiary industries with examples from India.
Answer:

Primary industries involve the extraction and production of raw materials directly from nature. Examples include farming, fishing, and mining. In India, coal mining in Jharkhand and tea plantations in Assam are primary activities.

Secondary industries process raw materials into finished goods. Examples include textile manufacturing in Gujarat and steel production in Odisha. These industries add value to raw materials.

Tertiary industries provide services rather than goods. Examples include banking, education, and transportation. In India, IT services in Bengaluru and tourism in Rajasthan fall under this category.

Each industry plays a vital role in the economy. Primary industries supply raw materials, secondary industries manufacture products, and tertiary industries support daily life and business operations.

Question 5:
Describe the different types of industries in India and their significance in daily life. Give examples of each type.
Answer:

Industries in India are classified into three main types based on their function and scale: primary, secondary, and tertiary industries. Each plays a vital role in our daily lives.

  • Primary Industries: These involve extracting raw materials from nature. Examples include agriculture, mining, and fishing. They provide essential goods like food (wheat, rice) and minerals (coal, iron).
  • Secondary Industries: These process raw materials into finished products. Examples are textile mills (converting cotton into cloth) and steel plants (making steel from iron ore). These industries produce items we use daily, such as clothes and vehicles.
  • Tertiary Industries: These provide services rather than goods. Examples include transportation, education, and banking. They ensure smooth functioning of society by facilitating trade, education, and financial transactions.

Together, these industries support economic growth and improve our quality of life by meeting various needs.

Question 6:
Describe the different types of industries in India with examples. How do they contribute to the country's development?
Answer:

Industries in India are classified into three main types based on their nature and scale:

  • Agro-based Industries: These use agricultural products as raw materials. Example: Sugar industry (uses sugarcane), Textile industry (uses cotton).
  • Mineral-based Industries: These rely on minerals for production. Example: Iron and steel industry (uses iron ore), Cement industry (uses limestone).
  • Service Industries: These provide services rather than goods. Example: Tourism, Banking.

Their contribution to development includes:

  • Employment: Industries create jobs for millions, reducing unemployment.
  • Economic Growth: They contribute to GDP by producing goods and services.
  • Infrastructure Development: Industries lead to better roads, electricity, and technology.

For example, the IT industry in Bengaluru has made India a global technology hub. Thus, industries drive progress and improve living standards.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
Rahul visited his uncle's farm during summer vacation. He noticed that his uncle grows wheat, rice, and sugarcane. Rahul wants to understand why these crops are grown in his uncle's region. Help Rahul by explaining the factors that influence the choice of crops in agriculture.
Answer:

The choice of crops in agriculture depends on several factors:

  • Climate: Crops like wheat and rice need different temperatures and rainfall. Wheat grows well in cooler climates, while rice requires more water and heat.
  • Soil type: Fertile soil with good drainage is ideal for sugarcane, while rice grows best in clayey soil that retains water.
  • Availability of water: Crops like rice need plenty of water, so they are grown in areas with good irrigation or heavy rainfall.
  • Market demand: Farmers also grow crops based on what people need or what sells for a good price.

Rahul's uncle likely grows these crops because his region has the right climate, soil, and water conditions for them.

Question 2:
Priya's father works in a textile factory. She wants to know how raw cotton is transformed into cloth in the factory. Explain the steps involved in the production of cloth in a textile industry.
Answer:

The production of cloth in a textile industry involves several steps:


Step 1: Ginning - Raw cotton is cleaned to remove seeds and dirt.
Step 2: Spinning - The cleaned cotton is spun into yarn using machines.
Step 3: Weaving/Knitting - The yarn is woven or knitted into fabric.
Step 4: Dyeing/Printing - The fabric is dyed or printed to add colors and designs.
Step 5: Stitching - The fabric is cut and stitched into clothes or other products.

These steps show how raw cotton is transformed into the cloth we use every day.

Question 3:
In a village, farmers are facing problems due to lack of modern farming techniques. Suggest three modern methods that can help these farmers improve their agricultural productivity.
Answer:

Farmers can adopt these modern methods to improve productivity:

  • Use of HYV Seeds: High-Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds grow faster and produce more crops compared to traditional seeds.
  • Irrigation Techniques: Methods like drip irrigation save water and ensure crops get the right amount of water.
  • Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides: These help crops grow healthier and protect them from pests and diseases.

By using these techniques, farmers can grow more food and earn better incomes. Modern farming also helps in conserving resources like water and soil.

Question 4:
Rahul visited a textile industry with his school. He noticed workers spinning yarn from cotton and weaving it into fabric.

Explain the steps involved in converting cotton into fabric in a textile industry.

Answer:

The process of converting cotton into fabric involves several steps:

  • Ginning: Cotton balls are separated from seeds using machines.
  • Spinning: The cleaned cotton fibers are spun into yarn using spinning machines.
  • Weaving: The yarn is woven into fabric using looms or power looms.
  • Dyeing and Printing: The fabric is dyed in different colors and printed with designs.
  • Finishing: The fabric is treated to make it soft, wrinkle-free, or waterproof before being sent to markets.

This process ensures that the cotton is transformed into usable fabric for making clothes and other textile products.

Question 5:
Priya's family owns a small dairy farm. They sell milk, curd, and ghee in the local market.

Describe how dairy farming contributes to the economy and daily life of people.

Answer:

Dairy farming plays a crucial role in the economy and daily life:

  • Employment: It provides jobs to farmers, milk collectors, and sellers.
  • Nutrition: Milk and dairy products like curd and ghee are rich in proteins and vitamins, essential for health.
  • Income: Small farmers earn money by selling dairy products, improving their livelihood.
  • Industries: Dairy farming supports industries like packaging, transportation, and retail.

Thus, dairy farming is not only a source of food but also a key part of the economy.

Question 6:
In a village, farmers grow wheat and rice as their main crops.

Compare the agricultural practices required for growing wheat and rice, focusing on climate, soil, and water needs.

Answer:

Wheat and rice require different agricultural practices:

  • Climate: Wheat grows well in cool weather (15°C–20°C), while rice needs hot and humid conditions (above 25°C).
  • Soil: Wheat thrives in well-drained loamy soil, whereas rice grows best in clayey soil that retains water.
  • Water: Wheat needs moderate water, but rice requires standing water in fields (paddy fields).

Farmers use these differences to plan crop cycles, ensuring better yields and food security.

Question 7:
Rahul visited a textile industry in his town. He noticed that the factory uses a lot of water and chemicals to dye fabrics.

How does this impact the environment, and what steps can the industry take to reduce this impact?

Answer:

The textile industry uses large amounts of water and chemicals, which can harm the environment in the following ways:

  • Water pollution: Chemicals from dyes can contaminate rivers and groundwater, affecting aquatic life and drinking water.
  • Soil degradation: Wastewater can make soil unfit for farming.
  • Health risks: Toxic chemicals can harm workers and nearby communities.

To reduce this impact, the industry can:

  • Use eco-friendly dyes that are less harmful.
  • Recycle water to reduce wastage.
  • Treat wastewater before releasing it into the environment.
  • Follow government guidelines for sustainable practices.
Question 8:
Priya’s family owns a small farm where they grow wheat. However, this year, their crop yield was low due to poor rainfall.

What are some modern farming methods they can adopt to improve their yield, even in dry conditions?

Answer:

Priya’s family can adopt these modern farming methods to improve their wheat yield:

  • Drip irrigation: This method supplies water directly to plant roots, reducing wastage.
  • Drought-resistant crops: They can grow wheat varieties that need less water.
  • Mulching: Covering soil with organic material helps retain moisture.
  • Soil testing: Checking soil health ensures proper use of fertilizers.

Additionally, they can use weather forecasts to plan sowing and harvesting times better.

Question 9:
A village near a coal mine faces air and water pollution. The villagers complain about health problems like breathing issues and skin diseases.

What measures can the government and the mining company take to solve these problems?

Answer:

The government and mining company can take these steps to reduce pollution and protect villagers:

  • Air pollution control: Install filters in chimneys to reduce harmful emissions.
  • Water treatment: Treat mine wastewater before releasing it to prevent contamination.
  • Health camps: Organize regular check-ups for villagers to detect and treat illnesses early.
  • Afforestation: Plant trees around the mine to absorb dust and improve air quality.

Strict enforcement of environmental laws and community awareness programs can also help.

Question 10:
Rahul visited a textile industry with his school. He noticed that the factory uses both handlooms and power looms. Compare these two methods of weaving cloth and explain why some industries still prefer handlooms despite the availability of faster machines.
Answer:

Handlooms and power looms are two methods of weaving cloth. Here’s a comparison:

  • Handlooms: Operated manually by weavers, slower but produce unique, high-quality designs. They support local artisans and preserve traditional craftsmanship.
  • Power looms: Machine-operated, faster, and produce large quantities of cloth at lower costs. They are used for mass production.

Some industries prefer handlooms because:

  • They create eco-friendly fabrics with less pollution.
  • They provide employment to skilled weavers in rural areas.
  • Handwoven fabrics are in demand for their cultural value and uniqueness.
Question 11:
Priya’s family owns a small dairy farm. They sell milk directly to customers and also supply it to a nearby dairy processing plant. Explain how dairy farming is an example of an agro-based industry and describe the steps involved in processing milk at the plant.
Answer:

Dairy farming is an agro-based industry because it depends on agriculture (animal rearing) for raw materials like milk. Here’s how milk is processed at a dairy plant:

  • Collection: Milk is collected from farms and transported to the plant in hygienic conditions.
  • Pasteurization: Milk is heated to kill harmful bacteria.
  • Homogenization: Fat particles are broken down for a smooth texture.
  • Packaging: Milk is packed into bottles or pouches for sale.
  • Distribution: Packed milk is sent to markets.

This process ensures safe and long-lasting milk products for consumers.

Question 12:
In a village, farmers grow sugarcane, which is sent to a sugar mill for processing. Describe the journey of sugarcane from the field to becoming sugar. Also, mention two by-products of this industry and their uses.
Answer:

The journey of sugarcane to sugar involves these steps:

  • Harvesting: Sugarcane is cut and transported to the sugar mill.
  • Crushing: The cane is crushed to extract juice.
  • Purification: Juice is cleaned and boiled to form syrup.
  • Crystallization: Syrup is cooled to form sugar crystals.
  • Drying & Packaging: Sugar is dried and packed for sale.

Two by-products of this industry are:

  • Bagasse: Used as fuel or to make paper.
  • Molasses: Used in animal feed or to make alcohol.

This shows how the sugar industry supports other sectors too.

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