Agricultural & Rural Development MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Agricultural & Rural Development - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is rural population.

Key Points

• Rural development primarily aims to improve the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas.
• The focus areas include agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and employment opportunities for rural communities.
• It targets marginalized groups such as small farmers, landless laborers, tribal populations, and women.
• Government schemes like MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) and PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin) are examples of rural development initiatives.
• Rural development is crucial for reducing poverty, rural-urban migration, and regional disparities in India.

Additional Information

• MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act):
  • MGNREGA provides a legal guarantee of 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to rural households.
  • It focuses on creating durable assets like roads, canals, and water conservation structures in rural areas.
  • This scheme aims to reduce rural poverty and promote livelihood security.
• PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin):
  • It aims to provide affordable housing to rural poor families with basic amenities.
  • Financial assistance is given to beneficiaries to construct pucca houses.
  • The scheme promotes women's ownership of houses and social inclusiveness.
• National Rural Health Mission (NRHM):
  • NRHM focuses on improving healthcare facilities and reducing maternal and infant mortality in rural areas.
  • It addresses health disparities by strengthening primary healthcare systems.
  • Programs like ASHA workers (Accredited Social Health Activists) are key components of NRHM.
• Key Challenges in Rural Development:
  • Lack of infrastructure like roads, electricity, and water supply.
  • Low literacy rates and inadequate healthcare services.
  • Dependence on agriculture and vulnerability to climate change.
  • Social issues such as caste discrimination and gender inequality.

The correct answer is National Agriculture Policy.

Key Points

• National Agriculture Policy was launched by the Government of India in 2000 to address challenges in agriculture and promote sustainable growth.
• The policy emphasized enhancing agricultural productivity, profitability, and ensuring food security in the country.
• It focused on promoting diversification in agriculture, improving rural infrastructure, and encouraging private sector investment in farming.
• A key component of the policy was the introduction of measures for natural resource management and the adoption of technology in farming practices.
• The policy aimed to double food production over the next decade and strengthen support systems such as credit, crop insurance, and market infrastructure.

Additional Information

• Green Revolution
  • It was introduced in India in the 1960s to increase food production through the use of high-yield variety (HYV) seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation.
  • The revolution primarily benefited wheat and rice production, significantly reducing food shortages.
  • It played a pivotal role in transforming India into a self-sufficient nation in food grain production.
• Operation Flood
  • Launched in 1970 by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), it aimed to make India the largest producer of milk and dairy products.
  • It focused on creating a nationwide milk grid and reducing dependency on imports.
  • Operation Flood is regarded as one of the most successful initiatives for rural development in India.
• Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP)
  • Introduced in 1995, it aimed to generate self-employment opportunities in rural areas through micro-enterprises.
  • The programme was implemented by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
  • It focused on promoting traditional industries and rural entrepreneurship.
• Challenges in Indian Agriculture
  • Issues such as fragmented land holdings, dependency on monsoons, and lack of modern farming techniques hinder agricultural growth.
  • Improving access to institutional credit, technology adoption, and market linkages remains critical for sustainable development.

The correct answer is Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Abhiyan.

Key Points

• Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Abhiyan (PYKA) is a scheme aimed at creating basic sports infrastructure at the Village and Panchayat levels.
• The scheme is designed to encourage youth to participate in sports and physical activities, fostering a culture of sports in rural areas.
• PYKA focuses on developing playfields, equipment, and organizing sports events at the grass-root level.
• The scheme also aims to identify and nurture talented youth in various sports disciplines, providing them opportunities for further development.

Additional Information

• Khelo India Programme
  • Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.
  • Aims to revive the sports culture in India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports played in the country.
  • Focuses on promoting "Sports for All" as well as "Sports for Excellence."
  • Provides financial assistance for sports infrastructure, talent identification, coaching, and training.
• Rashtriya Yuva Sashaktikaran Karyakram (RYSK)
  • Implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
  • Aims to develop the personality and leadership qualities of the youth and to engage them in nation-building activities.
  • Provides opportunities for youth to participate in various activities like cultural programs, adventure sports, and skill development.
• Fit India Movement
  • Launched by the Government of India in 2019 to encourage people to include physical activities and sports in their daily lives.
  • Aims to promote fitness and health awareness among citizens.
  • Encourages schools, colleges, and organizations to adopt fitness activities and create a healthy environment.
• National Sports Development Fund (NSDF)
  • Established by the Government of India in 1998.
  • Aims to mobilize resources from government and non-government sectors for the promotion of sports and games in the country.
  • Provides financial assistance for the training and support of athletes, creation of sports infrastructure, and hosting of sports events.

The correct answer is Mission Antyodaya (2022-23).

Key Points

• Mission Antyodaya aims to ensure the transformation of rural areas through the convergence of various schemes.
• The primary objective is to conduct an annual survey at the gram panchayat level to monitor the progress in the development process of rural areas.
• This initiative is a part of the Ministry of Rural Development's efforts to strengthen the planning and implementation of projects in rural India.
• The mission involves comprehensive data collection and analysis to identify gaps and ensure the effective delivery of services.
• Through this scheme, the government aims to achieve sustainable development goals and improve the quality of life in rural areas.

Additional Information

• Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP)
  • GPDP involves the preparation of plans for the economic development and social justice of the gram panchayat.
  • It is formulated through a participatory process involving the local community.
  • The plan covers activities related to agriculture, education, health, sanitation, and other sectors.
  • It aims to integrate various government schemes and programs at the village level.
• National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA)
  • Launched in 2005, it provides legal guarantee for at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to rural households.
  • The aim is to enhance the livelihood security of rural poor through wage employment opportunities.
  • Projects under NREGA include water conservation, drought-proofing, and land development.
  • It is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
• Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)
  • DDU-GKY aims to transform rural poor youth into economically independent and globally relevant workforce.
  • It targets youth aged 15-35 years from poor families.
  • The program provides skill training and placement support.
  • It is part of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
• Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G)
  • PMAY-G aims to provide housing for all in rural areas by 2022.
  • The scheme provides financial assistance for constructing houses to the homeless and those living in dilapidated houses.
  • Beneficiaries are selected based on the socio-economic caste census (SECC) 2011 data.
  • It ensures the provision of basic amenities such as toilets, drinking water, and electricity.

The correct answer is Haryali.

Key Points

• The Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, launched the Haryali scheme in 2003.
• The scheme aims at empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to undertake watershed development programs.
• It focuses on conserving water, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
• Under this scheme, village communities are involved in planning and implementing projects related to soil and water conservation.

Additional Information

• Watershed Development
  • A watershed is an area of land that drains rainwater into a common outlet like a river, lake, or other bodies of water.
  • Watershed development involves managing the natural resources of a watershed to prevent soil erosion, improve water availability, and support sustainable agriculture.
  • This approach helps in combating drought and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
• Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)
  • PRIs are local government bodies at the village level in India.
  • They play a critical role in the implementation of various development programs and schemes at the grassroots level.
  • PRIs facilitate community participation in decision-making processes related to rural development.
• Soil and Water Conservation
  • Soil conservation involves practices that prevent soil erosion and maintain soil fertility.
  • Water conservation includes techniques to collect, store, and manage water efficiently to ensure its sustainable use.
  • Both soil and water conservation are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and agricultural productivity.

The correct answer is Haryali.

Key Points

• The Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, launched the Haryali scheme in 2003.
• The scheme aims at empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to undertake watershed development programs.
• It focuses on conserving water, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
• Under this scheme, village communities are involved in planning and implementing projects related to soil and water conservation.

Additional Information

• Watershed Development
  • A watershed is an area of land that drains rainwater into a common outlet like a river, lake, or other bodies of water.
  • Watershed development involves managing the natural resources of a watershed to prevent soil erosion, improve water availability, and support sustainable agriculture.
  • This approach helps in combating drought and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
• Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)
  • PRIs are local government bodies at the village level in India.
  • They play a critical role in the implementation of various development programs and schemes at the grassroots level.
  • PRIs facilitate community participation in decision-making processes related to rural development.
• Soil and Water Conservation
  • Soil conservation involves practices that prevent soil erosion and maintain soil fertility.
  • Water conservation includes techniques to collect, store, and manage water efficiently to ensure its sustainable use.
  • Both soil and water conservation are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and agricultural productivity.

The correct answer is Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Abhiyan.

Key Points

• Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Abhiyan (PYKA) is a scheme aimed at creating basic sports infrastructure at the Village and Panchayat levels.
• The scheme is designed to encourage youth to participate in sports and physical activities, fostering a culture of sports in rural areas.
• PYKA focuses on developing playfields, equipment, and organizing sports events at the grass-root level.
• The scheme also aims to identify and nurture talented youth in various sports disciplines, providing them opportunities for further development.

Additional Information

• Khelo India Programme
  • Launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.
  • Aims to revive the sports culture in India at the grass-root level by building a strong framework for all sports played in the country.
  • Focuses on promoting "Sports for All" as well as "Sports for Excellence."
  • Provides financial assistance for sports infrastructure, talent identification, coaching, and training.
• Rashtriya Yuva Sashaktikaran Karyakram (RYSK)
  • Implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
  • Aims to develop the personality and leadership qualities of the youth and to engage them in nation-building activities.
  • Provides opportunities for youth to participate in various activities like cultural programs, adventure sports, and skill development.
• Fit India Movement
  • Launched by the Government of India in 2019 to encourage people to include physical activities and sports in their daily lives.
  • Aims to promote fitness and health awareness among citizens.
  • Encourages schools, colleges, and organizations to adopt fitness activities and create a healthy environment.
• National Sports Development Fund (NSDF)
  • Established by the Government of India in 1998.
  • Aims to mobilize resources from government and non-government sectors for the promotion of sports and games in the country.
  • Provides financial assistance for the training and support of athletes, creation of sports infrastructure, and hosting of sports events.

The correct answer is rural population.

Key Points

• Rural development primarily aims to improve the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas.
• The focus areas include agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and employment opportunities for rural communities.
• It targets marginalized groups such as small farmers, landless laborers, tribal populations, and women.
• Government schemes like MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) and PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin) are examples of rural development initiatives.
• Rural development is crucial for reducing poverty, rural-urban migration, and regional disparities in India.

Additional Information

• MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act):
  • MGNREGA provides a legal guarantee of 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to rural households.
  • It focuses on creating durable assets like roads, canals, and water conservation structures in rural areas.
  • This scheme aims to reduce rural poverty and promote livelihood security.
• PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin):
  • It aims to provide affordable housing to rural poor families with basic amenities.
  • Financial assistance is given to beneficiaries to construct pucca houses.
  • The scheme promotes women's ownership of houses and social inclusiveness.
• National Rural Health Mission (NRHM):
  • NRHM focuses on improving healthcare facilities and reducing maternal and infant mortality in rural areas.
  • It addresses health disparities by strengthening primary healthcare systems.
  • Programs like ASHA workers (Accredited Social Health Activists) are key components of NRHM.
• Key Challenges in Rural Development:
  • Lack of infrastructure like roads, electricity, and water supply.
  • Low literacy rates and inadequate healthcare services.
  • Dependence on agriculture and vulnerability to climate change.
  • Social issues such as caste discrimination and gender inequality.

The correct answer is National Agriculture Policy.

Key Points

• National Agriculture Policy was launched by the Government of India in 2000 to address challenges in agriculture and promote sustainable growth.
• The policy emphasized enhancing agricultural productivity, profitability, and ensuring food security in the country.
• It focused on promoting diversification in agriculture, improving rural infrastructure, and encouraging private sector investment in farming.
• A key component of the policy was the introduction of measures for natural resource management and the adoption of technology in farming practices.
• The policy aimed to double food production over the next decade and strengthen support systems such as credit, crop insurance, and market infrastructure.

Additional Information

• Green Revolution
  • It was introduced in India in the 1960s to increase food production through the use of high-yield variety (HYV) seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation.
  • The revolution primarily benefited wheat and rice production, significantly reducing food shortages.
  • It played a pivotal role in transforming India into a self-sufficient nation in food grain production.
• Operation Flood
  • Launched in 1970 by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), it aimed to make India the largest producer of milk and dairy products.
  • It focused on creating a nationwide milk grid and reducing dependency on imports.
  • Operation Flood is regarded as one of the most successful initiatives for rural development in India.
• Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP)
  • Introduced in 1995, it aimed to generate self-employment opportunities in rural areas through micro-enterprises.
  • The programme was implemented by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
  • It focused on promoting traditional industries and rural entrepreneurship.
• Challenges in Indian Agriculture
  • Issues such as fragmented land holdings, dependency on monsoons, and lack of modern farming techniques hinder agricultural growth.
  • Improving access to institutional credit, technology adoption, and market linkages remains critical for sustainable development.

The correct answer is Chennai CentralKey Points

• The Chennai Central railway station was selected for the 'One Station One Product' (OSOP) scheme in 2022, with Kanchipuram sarees as the chosen product. 
• The OSOP scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2022-23 to promote local products and arts, and to enhance the livelihoods of local artisans, weavers, and craftsmen.
• The scheme aims to make railway stations promotional hubs for local products and to present unique regional products to railway travellers. 
• The OSOP scheme includes:
  • Providing sale outlets at stations nationwide 
  • Allotting sale outlets through a tendering process 
  • Offering uniquely designed sale outlets at stations 
  • Showcasing Indigenous/local products with distinctive aesthetics 
• Some other products sold under the OSOP scheme include:
  • Tant handloom sarees and handloom textile at Howrah
  • Assamese Gamocha at Guwahati
  • Channapatna wooden toys at Bengaluru
  • Ranipet leather products
  • Thirubhuvanam sarees
  • Thanjavur painting

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3 are correct.

Key Points

• The National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) aims to make agriculture more productive, sustainable, remunerative, and climate-resilient by promoting location-specific integrated/composite farming systems.
• It also focuses on improving soil health and water use efficiency, as well as enhancing seed quality and promoting the use of organic farming practices.
• The NMSA is designed to cover both rainfed and irrigated areas to ensure comprehensive coverage of all agricultural zones.
• It supports the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that help in conserving natural resources while maintaining agricultural productivity.

Additional Information

• Soil Health Management (SHM)
  • SHM is one of the major components of the NMSA. It aims to promote Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) through judicious use of chemical fertilizers, including secondary and micronutrients, in conjunction with organic manure and bio-fertilizers.
  • The objective is to improve soil health and its productivity, thus supporting sustainable agriculture.
• Rainfed Area Development (RAD)
  • RAD focuses on Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) for enhancing productivity and minimizing risks associated with climatic variability.
  • It includes crop diversification, horticulture, livestock, fishery, and agroforestry to make agriculture more resilient to climate change.
• Climate Change and Sustainable Agriculture: Monitoring, Modeling and Networking (CCSAMMN)
  • This initiative aims to build and strengthen the capacity of farmers and other stakeholders in addressing climate change impacts on agriculture.
  • It involves the development of climate-resilient agricultural practices and technologies, and promoting their adoption.
• Organic Farming
  • The NMSA promotes organic farming through the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY). PKVY aims to support and encourage farmers to adopt organic farming practices and certifications.
  • It also focuses on marketing organic produce to ensure better returns to farmers.

The correct answer is ₹6,000.

Key Points

• The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-Kisan) is a central sector scheme launched by the Government of India.
• Under this scheme, income support of ₹6,000 per year is provided to all farmer families across the country.
• This amount is paid in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each, which are directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.
• The scheme aims to support the financial needs of farmers in procuring various inputs to ensure proper crop health and appropriate yields.

Additional Information

• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan)
  • PM-Kisan is a central sector scheme with 100% funding from the Government of India.
  • It was launched on 24th February 2019, and the first installment was paid out in December 2018.
  • The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare.
  • All landholding farmer families are eligible for this scheme, provided they meet the criteria set by the government.
• Objectives
  • The main objective of PM-Kisan is to provide financial support to farmers, helping them to procure various inputs for agriculture and allied activities, as well as domestic needs.
  • The scheme aims to supplement the financial needs of the farmers in procuring inputs for crop production, ensuring proper crop health and yields.
  • It also aims to protect farmers from falling into the clutches of moneylenders for meeting such expenses and ensure their continuance in farming activities.
• Eligibility Criteria
  • All landholding farmer families, which have cultivable landholding in their names, are eligible for this scheme.
  • However, certain exclusions apply, such as institutional landholders, farmer families holding constitutional posts, serving or retired officers and employees of state/central government as well as public sector undertakings and government autonomous bodies, and professionals like doctors, engineers, and lawyers.
• Implementation
  • The scheme is implemented through an electronic database containing the details of all the beneficiaries.
  • The funds are directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
  • The states and union territories are responsible for identifying the farmer families which are eligible for support as per scheme guidelines.

The correct answer is 0.02.

Key Points

• The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a crop insurance scheme launched by the Government of India.
• The maximum premium payable by the farmers is 2% for all kharif food and oilseeds crops.
• The scheme aims to provide insurance coverage and financial support to farmers in the event of crop failure due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases.
• It helps stabilize the income of farmers to ensure their continuance in farming.

Additional Information

• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
  • The scheme was launched on 18th February 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • It aims to provide a comprehensive insurance cover against the failure of crops, thus helping in stabilizing the income of farmers.
  • Farmers are required to pay a uniform premium of only 2% for all Kharif crops and 1.5% for all Rabi crops. For annual commercial and horticultural crops, the premium is 5%.
  • The remaining premium is paid by the Government to provide full insured amount to the farmers against crop loss on account of natural calamities.
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
  • PMKSY was launched to improve farm productivity and ensure better utilization of the resources in the country.
  • The scheme’s motto is "Har Khet Ko Pani" (Water for every field).
  • It focuses on efficient water conveyance and precision water application devices like drips, sprinklers, pivots, rain-guns, etc.
  • The scheme aims at improving on-farm water use efficiency through a proper combination of surface and ground water.
• Soil Health Card Scheme
  • The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by the Government of India in February 2015.
  • The scheme aims at promoting soil test-based and balanced use of fertilizers to enable farmers to realize higher yields at lower cost.
  • Under the scheme, farmers are provided with Soil Health Cards, which will carry crop-wise recommendations of nutrients and fertilizers required for the individual farms.
  • The Soil Health Cards will be issued once every three years for all land holdings in the country.

The correct answer is Marginal Farmers Development Agency (MFDA).

Key Points

• The Marginal Farmers Development Agency (MFDA) was initiated by the Government of India to address the specific needs of marginal farmers.
• It aims to improve the socio-economic conditions of marginal farmers by providing them with necessary resources, training, and support.
• MFDA focuses on increasing agricultural productivity and income through various development programs and strategies tailored for the target group.
• The scheme includes components such as credit facilities, supply of inputs, irrigation, training, and market linkages to ensure comprehensive support for marginal farmers.

Additional Information

• Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP)
  • DPAP is one of the earliest area development programs initiated by the Government of India to tackle the problems of drought in vulnerable areas.
  • The primary objective is to minimize the adverse effects of drought on crop production, livestock, and productivity of land, water, and human resources.
• Hill Areas Development Programme (HADP)
  • HADP was launched to ensure the socio-economic development of hill areas and their people.
  • The program aims at addressing the unique problems faced by hill areas, including environmental degradation and lack of basic infrastructure.
• Command Area Development & Water Management Programme (CADP)
  • CADP was initiated to enhance the utilization of irrigation potential created under major and medium irrigation projects.
  • The program focuses on improving water use efficiency and ensuring equitable distribution of water.

The correct answer is 90 : 10.

Key Points

• The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awaas Yojana (PMGAY) is a social welfare flagship program created by the Indian Government to provide housing for the rural poor.
• For the North-Eastern and the Himalayan states, the cost sharing ratio between the Central and State Governments is 90:10.
• This scheme aims to provide financial assistance to the homeless and those living in kutcha houses to construct pucca houses.
• It ensures that people living in difficult areas such as hilly terrains and remote regions also have access to housing support.

Additional Information

• Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awaas Yojana (PMGAY)
  • Formerly known as Indira Awaas Yojana, it was revamped in 2016 as Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G).
  • It aims to provide financial assistance for constructing pucca houses with basic amenities to homeless families and those living in dilapidated houses.
  • The cost of unit assistance is shared between the Central and State Governments for various states in different ratios.
  • In plain areas, the cost sharing ratio is 60:40 between Central and State Governments.
  • For the North-Eastern and the Himalayan states, the cost sharing ratio is 90:10 between the Central and State Governments.
  • For Union Territories, the entire cost is borne by the Central Government.
• Other Similar Schemes:
  • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)
    • This scheme is aimed at addressing the urban housing shortage among the Economically Weaker Section (EWS)/Low Income Group (LIG) and Middle Income Group (MIG) categories including the slum dwellers by ensuring a pucca house to all eligible urban households by the year 2022.
    • The scheme is implemented through four verticals: In-situ Slum Redevelopment, Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme, Affordable Housing in Partnership, and Subsidy for beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancement.
  • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
    • This is a financial inclusion program aimed at ensuring affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance, and pensions.
    • Launched on 28 August 2014, it aims to provide universal access to banking facilities with at least one basic banking account for every household.