chapter 5: Agriculture | class 5 | Solutions |

Activity: 1

Arrange the stages of cultivation in a sequential order

Think and Discuss: 1

Are there any differences in the process of cultivating Paddy and cotton?

Yes, there are significant differences in the process of cultivating paddy (rice) and cotton due to their distinct growth requirements and cultivation methods. Here are some key differences:

1. Climate Requirements:

• Paddy (Rice): Paddy is a water-intensive crop that requires hot and humid conditions. It grows well in regions with high temperatures (20°C to 35°C) and requires a lot of water throughout its growth period, typically in lowland areas with standing water.

• Cotton: Cotton thrives in warm, dry climates and requires a lot of sunlight. It grows well in regions with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 35°C and prefers well-drained soils. Excessive moisture can harm cotton crops.

2. Soil Type:

• Paddy: Paddy grows best in clayey or loamy soils that can retain water, as the crop is often grown in flooded fields.

• Cotton: Cotton requires well-drained, fertile, sandy-loam or alluvial soils. It does not do well in waterlogged conditions.

3. Water Requirements:

• Paddy: Requires significant water supply, usually through irrigation or flooded fields (paddy fields). The fields are flooded during sowing and much of the growing period to keep the roots submerged.

• Cotton: Needs moderate water, but overwatering can damage the crop. It is generally rain-fed in some areas, but irrigation may be needed in dry regions.

4. Seed Sowing:

• Paddy: Paddy seeds are either sown directly in waterlogged fields or first grown in a nursery and then transplanted to the flooded fields.

• Cotton: Cotton seeds are sown directly into the soil, often using a drill or traditional methods, in rows with adequate spacing to allow for plant growth.

5. Field Preparation:

• Paddy: Fields are prepared by plowing, leveling, and creating bunds (raised embankments) to retain water. After transplanting, the field is flooded to promote growth.

• Cotton: Fields are prepared by plowing and tilling to create a fine seedbed. No flooding is required, but irrigation may be used occasionally, depending on rainfall.

6. Plant Growth and Care:

• Paddy: The crop requires continuous water supply, and fields are often kept flooded until the grain matures. It also needs timely weeding.

• Cotton: Cotton plants need consistent care, including weeding, pest control (as it is prone to attacks by pests like bollworms), and occasional irrigation. Excess moisture can lead to fungal infections.

7. Harvesting:

• Paddy: Harvested when the grains turn golden and are fully mature. The fields are drained of water before harvesting. The crop is then threshed to separate grains from the husk.

• Cotton: Cotton is harvested when the bolls (cotton fruit) burst open to reveal white, fluffy cotton. The cotton fibers are handpicked or machine harvested, and the seeds are separated from the cotton in a process called ginning.

8. Duration:

• Paddy: The growing season for paddy is usually shorter, typically around 3-6 months, depending on the variety.

• Cotton: Cotton takes a longer time to mature, with a growing period of 5-8 months.

Conclusion: These differences highlight how both crops require different approaches and resources to cultivate successfully, each suited to specific environmental conditions.

Think and Discuss: 2

1. Have you ever seen drip irrigation? Why was that method adopted?

• Yes, I have seen drip irrigation in some farms. It was adopted because it saves water by giving it directly to the roots of the plants. This way, the plants get just the right amount of water, and there is less wastage.

2. What are the uses of furrows? What happens if there are no furrows in fields?

• Furrows are small ditches or trenches made in the field to help water reach all the plants evenly. If there are no furrows, water won’t flow properly, and some plants may not get enough water while others might get too much, which can damage them.

3. When you have little water resources in your area, which irrigation method would you adopt?

• If we have little water, I would adopt drip irrigation because it uses less water and gives it directly to the plants without wasting any.

4. What are the water-saving methods of irrigation?

• Some water-saving methods of irrigation are drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation. Both of these methods help to use water carefully and reduce wastage, especially when there’s not much water available.

Think and Discuss: 3

1. Is it good to use machines for cultivation? Give reasons.

• Yes, it is good to use machines for cultivation because they help farmers work faster and finish tasks quickly. Machines can do things like plowing, sowing seeds, and harvesting in less time. This helps farmers grow more crops and saves them a lot of hard work. However, using machines can be expensive, and not all farmers can afford them.

2. List the tools which farmers used in the olden days and at present:

3. Name the hand tools used by farmers in cultivation:

• Some hand tools used by farmers are:

How are agriculture and animal rearing related to each other?

Agriculture and animal rearing are interrelated in several important ways, forming a symbiotic relationship, especially in rural and farming communities. Here’s how they are connected:

1. Mutual Support:

• Manure from animals is used as an organic fertilizer for crops, enriching the soil with essential nutrients.

• Crop residues (like straw and stalks) are often used as feed for livestock, creating a natural cycle of resources.

2. Animal Labor: In traditional farming, animals like oxen and buffaloes are used for plowing fields, transporting goods, and other agricultural tasks, contributing to farm productivity.

3. Economic Diversification: Farmers can earn income from both crop production and animal products such as milk, eggs, and meat, providing financial stability and reducing risks.

4. Sustainable Farming Practices: Mixed farming, where crops and livestock are raised together, promotes sustainability. Animals help recycle nutrients back into the soil, while crops provide fodder for the animals.

5. Complementary Resources: Animals help farmers make use of non-edible agricultural by-products (like husks and chaff) by converting them into valuable products like milk, meat, and manure.

conclusion: This interdependence between agriculture and animal rearing helps create a balanced, efficient farming system that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Think and Discuss: 4

• If there are no butterflies and bees, what will happen?

If there are no butterflies and bees, the impact on the environment, agriculture, and food production would be significant due to their critical role in pollination. Here’s what could happen:

1. Decline in Plant Pollination:

• Bees and butterflies are important pollinators. Without them, many flowering plants, including fruits, vegetables, and crops, would not be pollinated effectively. This would lead to a reduction in the reproduction of these plants.

2. Reduced Food Production:

• Around 75% of the world’s food crops depend on pollination by insects, including bees and butterflies. Without them, crops such as apples, almonds, strawberries, tomatoes, and many others would have lower yields, affecting food availability.

3. Ecosystem Imbalance:

• Many plants in natural ecosystems rely on pollinators for survival. The absence of butterflies and bees would disrupt plant reproduction, leading to fewer plants, which in turn could affect other wildlife that depends on those plants for food and habitat.

4. Impact on Biodiversity:

• The loss of pollinators would negatively affect the biodiversity of ecosystems. Without pollination, plant species that rely on insects for reproduction would decline, leading to a loss of plant diversity, which could cascade through the entire food chain.

5. Higher Costs for Human Pollination:

• In the absence of natural pollinators, humans would need to find alternative methods, such as hand pollination, which is labor-intensive and costly. This would increase the cost of food production and, consequently, food prices.

In summary, the disappearance of butterflies and bees would lead to reduced crop yields, decreased biodiversity, and significant ecological and economic challenges, affecting both the environment and human society.

In the paddy field, you may observe little fish like organisms. Are they real fish?

The little fish-like organisms observed in paddy fields may or may not be real fish, depending on the specific species. Here’s an explanation:

1. Actual Fish:
In many paddy fields, especially in regions with rice-fish farming systems, you can find small fish species like tilapia, catfish, or carp. These fish are intentionally introduced as part of integrated farming practices to benefit both rice production and fish farming. The fish help by eating pests and providing nutrients (through their waste) that improve soil fertility.

2. Insect Larvae or Tadpoles:
Sometimes, the small, fish-like organisms seen in paddy fields could be insect larvae (like dragonfly nymphs or mosquito larvae) or tadpoles. They may resemble fish but are actually the immature stages of different aquatic organisms that thrive in the wet conditions of paddy fields.

3. Tiny Aquatic Species:
Some small aquatic organisms, like shrimp or other tiny crustaceans, can also be found in paddy fields and might look like small fish to the untrained eye.

So, while some of these organisms may be actual fish, others could be larvae or other aquatic species. The diversity of life in paddy fields plays a role in maintaining the ecosystem of the rice crop.

Think and Discuss: 5

Farmers use various methods to protect their crops, depending on the challenges they face and the resources available. In many villages, crop protection strategies involve a mix of traditional practices and modern techniques. Here are common ways a farmer may protect crops:

• How does a farmer protect his crops in your village?

1. Using Organic or Chemical Pesticides:

• Chemical Pesticides: Farmers often use chemical insecticides and fungicides to prevent damage from pests like insects, fungi, and bacteria.

• Organic Pesticides: Some farmers prefer organic options like neem oil, garlic spray, or cow urine to control pests naturally without harming the environment.

2. Scarecrows and Fencing:

• Scarecrows: Farmers may use scarecrows or reflective objects like hanging CDs to scare away birds that could damage crops.

• Fencing: In areas prone to animal intrusion (like wild boars or cattle), farmers set up fences, including electric fences, to keep animals out of the fields.

3. Mulching:

• Mulching with straw, leaves, or plastic sheets helps protect crops from weeds and soil erosion. It also retains moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering and minimizing crop stress.

4. Netting and Row Covers:

• Netting: Farmers sometimes cover plants with nets to protect them from birds, insects, or even strong winds.

• Row Covers: Lightweight fabric row covers protect crops from pests, frost, and harsh sunlight while allowing air and water to reach the plants.

5. Crop Rotation and Companion Planting:

• Crop Rotation: Farmers rotate different crops each season to prevent soil depletion and reduce the buildup of crop-specific pests and diseases.

• Companion Planting: Some farmers plant certain crops together (like marigolds with vegetables) to repel pests naturally and promote better crop health.

6. Irrigation Management:

• Drip Irrigation or sprinkler systems help ensure crops get the right amount of water, preventing issues like waterlogging (which can cause root rot) or drought stress.

7. Using Natural Predators:

• Biological Control: Farmers may introduce natural predators like ladybugs, spiders, or birds to control harmful insects without using chemicals.

8. Traditional Practices:

• Ash or Salt: Some farmers sprinkle ash or salt around plants to deter insects like slugs and snails.

• Smoke: Lighting small fires or using smoke helps keep insects away from crops, especially at night.

9. Timely Weeding and Pruning:

• Regular weeding helps keep crops free from competition for nutrients and water, while pruning ensures good air circulation, reducing the chances of fungal infections.

10. Community Efforts:

• In some villages, farmers collaborate to protect entire fields by building shared infrastructure like trenches or water channels to control floods or pests.

By combining these methods, farmers in villages can effectively protect their crops from pests, diseases, weather, and other threats while promoting healthy growth and higher yields.

List the insects and animals that damage the crop.

Several insects and animals can damage crops, and they pose significant challenges for farmers. Here’s a list of common crop-damaging insects and animals:

Insects that Damage Crops:

1. Aphids:

• Small, sap-sucking insects that can weaken plants and spread diseases.

2. Caterpillars:

• The larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on leaves, stems, and fruits (e.g., Armyworms, Cabbage Worms).

3. Grasshoppers:

• Insects that chew on leaves and stems, often causing severe defoliation.

4. Whiteflies:

• Tiny, winged insects that suck plant sap and can transmit plant viruses.

5. Locusts:

• Highly destructive, swarming insects that can strip crops and vegetation quickly.

6. Stem Borers:

• Caterpillars that bore into plant stems, weakening or killing crops like rice, maize, and sugarcane.

7. Weevils:

• Small beetles that feed on stored grains and seeds (e.g., Rice Weevil, Cotton Boll Weevil).

8. Cutworms:

• Larvae that cut young plants at the base, often killing seedlings.

9. Mealybugs:

• Sap-sucking pests that produce honeydew, encouraging mold growth on plants.

10. Leafhoppers:

• Insects that suck plant sap and spread diseases like leaf curl and mosaic virus.

11. Thrips:

• Small insects that damage leaves, flowers, and fruits by feeding on plant cells.

12. Mites:

• Tiny arachnids that suck the sap from leaves, causing discoloration and stunted growth (e.g., Spider Mites).

13. Fruit Flies:

• Insects whose larvae burrow into fruit, causing rot and making it inedible.

Animals that Damage Crops:

1. Rodents (Rats, Mice, Squirrels):

• These animals gnaw on seeds, roots, and fruits, causing significant damage, especially in grain storage areas.

2. Wild Boars:

• These large animals root around in fields, digging up and eating crops like corn, potatoes, and rice.

3. Birds (Crows, Sparrows, Parrots):

• Birds eat seeds, fruits, and grains directly from the fields, often damaging large portions of crops.

4. Monkeys:

• In some regions, monkeys raid farms, eating fruits, vegetables, and grains.

5. Deer:

• Deer graze on crops like beans, lettuce, and maize, damaging both plants and produce.

6. Porcupines:

• These animals dig up root crops and gnaw on stems and bark, damaging plants like cassava, potatoes, and yams.

7. Goats and Cattle (when stray):

• If livestock enters crop fields, they can trample and eat crops, causing significant damage.

8. Elephants:

• In regions near forests, elephants can destroy large areas of crops while foraging for food.

9. Rabbits and Hares:

• These animals nibble on vegetables, seedlings, and grains, often destroying plants before they mature.

10. Snails and Slugs:

• These mollusks eat the leaves and stems of plants, particularly in moist environments, leaving behind large holes.

Farmers use a variety of methods to protect crops from these insects and animals, such as using pesticides, organic repellents, scare devices, and physical barriers like fences and nets.

Do you know the traditional storing methods of grains?

Yes, traditional methods of storing grains have been used for centuries to protect them from pests, moisture, and spoilage. These methods rely on natural materials and techniques, and many are still used today in rural areas. Here are some traditional grain storage methods:

1. Bamboo or Wicker Baskets (Mud-plastered Bins):

• Farmers weave baskets or bins using bamboo, cane, or wicker and plaster them with a layer of mud and cow dung. This method helps protect the grains from pests and moisture. The bins are usually placed on a raised platform to prevent contact with the ground, reducing the risk of rot and dampness.

2. Earthen Pots (Matka or Handi):

• In many villages, grains are stored in large earthen pots. The pots are sealed with mud or clay after filling, keeping air and moisture out. This method is particularly effective for small quantities of grains and helps maintain cool, dry conditions.

3. Underground Pits:

• Grains are sometimes stored in pits dug into the ground, particularly in dry, arid regions. The pits are lined with straw, leaves, or a layer of clay to keep the grains dry and protected. Once filled, the pit is sealed with a layer of soil, preventing pests and air from entering.

4. Metal or Wooden Silos:

• Traditional silos made of wood or metal are commonly used in rural areas. These structures have narrow openings and are elevated from the ground. The grains are poured in from the top and taken out from the bottom, allowing older grains to be used first. The elevation helps keep the grains dry and safe from rodents.

5. Jute Bags or Cloth Bags:

• Grains are packed in jute or cotton cloth bags, which allow air to circulate and prevent the buildup of moisture. These bags are often stored in well-ventilated rooms or hung from ceilings to avoid contact with the ground and pests.

6. Neem Leaves or Ash for Pest Control:

• Neem leaves, which have natural insect-repelling properties, are mixed with stored grains to keep pests like weevils and moths away. Similarly, a thin layer of ash is sprinkled over the grains to deter insects. These organic methods help preserve the grains without using chemical pesticides.

7. Mud Granaries (Kothis or Morais):

• In some regions, large, specially built mud granaries (called kothis or morais) are used for long-term storage. These are made from a mixture of clay, mud, and straw, which is naturally cool and insulating. The granary is tightly sealed to keep moisture and pests out.

8. Thatches or Straw Bins:

• Farmers in some regions use straw thatches or bins to store grains like maize or millet. The grains are tied into bundles or hung in a well-ventilated structure, keeping them safe from pests and allowing air circulation to prevent mold growth.

9. Clay-coated Grain (Burnt Clay Coating):

• In some traditional methods, grains are coated with a thin layer of burnt clay before storage. This method prevents insect attacks by forming a protective layer around each grain, making it difficult for pests to feed on them.

10. Hermetic Storage (Sealed Containers):

• Hermetic storage involves sealing grains in airtight containers made of clay, metal, or plastic. The lack of oxygen in these containers prevents the growth of mold and deters pests. This method is especially useful for protecting grains during long-term storage.

11. Storage in Threshed Panicles (for Rice and Millet):

• Instead of threshing the grains immediately, some farmers store the entire crop (with grains still attached to the panicle or stalk) in a dry, elevated place, such as under a thatched roof or on a raised platform. This method protects the grains from moisture and pests until they are needed.

12. Smoke Storage:

• In some villages, grains are stored in attics or on platforms above the kitchen, where they are exposed to smoke from cooking fires. The smoke acts as a natural insect repellent, helping to preserve the grains.

These traditional storage methods are designed to protect grains from moisture, pests, and other environmental factors. They have been refined over generations and remain effective in many parts of the world, especially where access to modern storage technologies is limited.

Activity: 2

Draw the pictures of spade, sickle and plough and write their uses

In agriculture, tools like spades, sickles, and ploughs play crucial roles in various farming activities. Here’s a breakdown of their uses:

1. Spade:

• A spade is used for digging soil, turning it over, and preparing the land for planting seeds or seedlings.

• It helps in loosening soil for better aeration and water penetration.

• It can also be used to remove weeds and unwanted plants from the fields.

2. Sickle:

• A sickle is a hand-held tool with a curved blade used primarily for harvesting crops, such as wheat, paddy, and other cereals.

• It is also used to cut grass, weeds, and other vegetation.

• Farmers use sickles to cut crops close to the ground for efficient collection during harvest.

3. Plough:

• A plough is used to till the soil and prepare it for sowing seeds. It turns over the top layer of soil, bringing nutrients to the surface.

• Ploughing helps in breaking up soil clumps and improving the soil structure for better root growth.

• It also helps in weeding by burying weeds and crop residues under the soil, which enhances soil fertility.

These tools are essential for efficient farming and Preparing the land to ensure a better crop yield.

Name the crop which is cultivated in majority of thedistricts in Andhra Pradesh.

The crop that is cultivated in the majority of districts in Andhra Pradesh is rice. Thanks to its favorable climate and irrigation facilities, Andhra Pradesh is one of the leading producers of rice in India, Especially In The Kharif Season. Other important crops in the state include groundnut, maize, and cotton, but rice remains the dominant crop.

Crops in our state; |District wise crop data|

Think and Discuss: 6

1. What are the crops cultivated in your village?

In our village, Kovur, the main crops we cultivate are groundnut, tobacco, sunflower, and rice. The soil here is good for growing these crops, and the climate is suitable for groundnut and sunflower in particular.

2. What are the crops mentioned in the map?

The crops shown on the map for our region are rice, groundnut, cotton, and tobacco. These are the most commonly grown crops in the district and are essential for our local economy.

3. List out the crops which grow in your district?

In Nellore district, the crops that grow include:

• Rice
• Groundnut
• Cotton
• Tobacco
• Sunflower
• Sugarcane
• Chili
• Maize

These are the primary crops that are grown in various parts of the district, depending on the season and the availability of water.

4. What are the major crops cultivated in our state?

The major crops grown in Andhra Pradesh include:

• rice
• groundnut
• tobacco
• cotton
• sugarcane
• chilli
• sunflower
• pulses like blackgram and green gram
• maize

These crops are grown across different regions of the state, with rice being the staple crop in many areas.

let us do: Who among the above eats good food?

Among the three, Kusuma eats the most balanced and nutritious food.
Here’s why:

• Kusuma includes a variety of vegetables, eggs, fruits, and millets, all of which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that help keep the body healthy and strong.

• She also eats sprouts of dry peas, chickpeas, and lentils, which are rich in protein and help in muscle development and overall growth.

• Additionally, she drinks gruel (bataneelu) and eats ragi, sesame seeds, and groundnuts, all of which are high in nutrients and help with energy, immunity, and overall well-being.

On the other hand:

• Sreenu eats rice with chutney or powders, which provides energy but lacks variety in terms of essential nutrients. His occasional consumption of roadside food may not always be healthy due to its high fat and low nutritional value.

• Chandu loves eating biscuits, ice creams, and noodles, which are often unhealthy due to their high sugar, fat, and artificial additives content. His dislike for rice, vegetables, and fruits means he’s missing out on vital nutrients.

Therefore, Kusuma’s diet is more well-rounded and healthy, making her the one who eats good food.

Think and Discuss: 7

1. What do you eat at home (Rice, Wheat, or Jowar)?

At home, I usually eat rice. It’s a staple food in our family, especially since we live in Andhra Pradesh, where rice is the main crop.

2. Name the food item you can prepare using the above food grains.

If I were to prepare food using rice, I could make:

• Rice with curry (a common meal with vegetables or lentils).

• Rice pulao (a spiced rice dish with vegetables or meat).

• Curd rice (rice mixed with curd and seasonings).

• Fried rice (rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, or meat).

• Rice kheer (a sweet dessert made from rice and milk).

If I were to use wheat, I could make:

• Chapati (flatbread).

• Paratha (a stuffed or plain flatbread).

• Pasta (using wheat flour to make pasta).

• Wheat halwa (a sweet dish made from wheat flour).

And for Jowar, I could prepare:

• Jowar roti (a flatbread made from jowar flour).

• Jowar porridge (a nutritious breakfast dish).

• Jowar upma (a savory dish made from jowar).

These food items provide a variety of flavors and nutrients for a balanced diet.

Think and Discuss: 8

1. What happens if you don’t take protein-rich food like pulses and cereals?

If you don’t consume protein-rich foods like pulses (dal, chickpeas, etc.) and cereals (rice, wheat, etc.), it can affect your body in several ways:

• Weak muscles: Protein is important for building and repairing muscle tissue. Without enough protein, your muscles can become weak and may not grow properly.

• Weakened immune system: Protein helps in the formation of antibodies, which fight infections. Lack of protein can make you more susceptible to illnesses.

• Poor growth: Protein is essential for overall growth, especially in children. Without it, you may not grow as tall or strong as you should.

• Fatigue: Without enough protein, your energy levels may drop, leading to constant tiredness and weakness.

2. How does the food help us to grow healthy?

Food helps us grow healthy by providing the necessary nutrients our bodies need to function properly:

• Carbohydrates in rice, wheat, and other grains provide energy for daily activities and help our bodies function.

• Proteins in pulses, beans, and cereals are crucial for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs.

• Vitamins and minerals in vegetables, fruits, and dairy support healthy bones, vision, skin, and help in immune function.

• Fats (from oil, ghee, nuts) give us energy and help in the absorption of vitamins.

• Fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps in digestion and keeps the gut healthy.

When we eat a balanced diet that includes all these nutrients, we stay strong, grow well, and stay healthy.

3. Ragi sangati, Jonna Roti, Palli chikki are also nutritious foods.

Yes, Ragi sangati, Jonna roti, and Palli chikki are indeed nutritious foods:

• Ragi sangati is made from ragi (finger millet), which is rich in calcium, iron, and fiber. It’s good for bone health and helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

• Jonna roti is made from jowar (sorghum), which is a good source of iron, fiber, and protein. It’s also gluten-free, making it a good option for those with gluten intolerance.

• Palli chikki is made from groundnuts (peanuts), which are rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins. It provides a good energy boost and is great for brain health.

These foods are healthy choices as they provide essential nutrients that support growth, bone health, and energy levels. They are traditional foods that are also easy to digest and full of natural goodness.

Improve your Learning:

I. Conceptual understanding 

1. What is cultivation?

Cultivation is the process of growing and nurturing plants, especially crops, for food, medicinal, or other uses. It involves preparing the soil, planting seeds, taking care of the plants as they grow, and harvesting the crops when they are ready. Cultivation can be done in fields, gardens, or greenhouses, depending on the type of crop and the resources available.

2. Is it good to use chemical fertilizers and pesticides? Why?

Using chemical fertilizers and pesticides has both advantages and disadvantages:

• Advantages:

• Increased crop yield: Chemical fertilizers can provide essential nutrients to plants, which helps them grow faster and produce more crops.

• Pest control: Pesticides help control harmful insects, diseases, and weeds, ensuring that crops are protected and can grow without damage.

• Disadvantages:

• Environmental harm: The overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides can lead to soil degradation, water pollution, and harm to beneficial insects like bees.

• Health risks: Consuming food with pesticide residues can be harmful to human health, leading to various diseases over time.

• Resistance: Over time, pests can become resistant to pesticides, making them harder to control.

Overall, while chemical fertilizers and pesticides can boost crop production in the short term, their long-term use can harm the environment and health. It’s better to use them in moderation or explore organic farming methods, which use natural fertilizers and pest control techniques.

3. What are the advantages of preserving food grains?

Preserving food grains is very important, and it has several advantages:

• Prevents spoilage: Proper preservation of food grains prevents them from getting damaged by moisture, pests, or fungal infections, ensuring they last longer.

• Ensures food security: By preserving grains, we can store enough food to use during times of scarcity, like during bad weather or poor harvest seasons.

• Reduces waste: By preserving food grains properly, we prevent unnecessary wastage, ensuring that they can be consumed when needed.

• Economical: Proper preservation helps reduce the need for buying new grains frequently, which can be expensive.

• Maintains nutrition: Well-preserved grains retain their nutritional value, making them a good source of energy and essential nutrients.

Preserving food grains is important for maintaining a stable food supply and supporting a healthy diet throughout the year.

 II. Questioning and hypothesis

4. What questions would you ask a farmer in your village to know about paddy cultivation? 

here are some questions I might ask a farmer in my village to learn more about paddy cultivation:

1. When do you start planting the paddy seeds?

2. How do you prepare the field before planting paddy?

3. Why do you keep the paddy fields flooded with water?

4. What tools do you use to plant and harvest the paddy?

5. How long does it take for the paddy to grow and be ready for harvesting?

6. Do you face any problems with insects or animals eating the crops? How do you protect them?

7. What do you do with the paddy after you harvest it?

8. How do you know when the paddy is ready to be harvested?

9. Do you use any fertilizers or natural methods to help the paddy grow?

10. What kind of weather is best for growing paddy?

These questions will help understand the entire process of paddy cultivation, from planting to harvesting.

III. Experiments and field based observations 

5. Sow the seeds of coriander or fenugreek nut in your garden at home. Observe the growth of the plants for two weeks. Measure and record the height of the plant in your note book.

The observations were made during the two weeks after sowing coriander seeds. Here’s how I approach it:

Observation Steps:

1. Sow the Seeds:

Plant the coriander or fenugreek seeds in your garden. Make sure to water them regularly and keep the soil moist.

2. Daily Observation:

Each day, observe how the seeds sprout and grow into small plants. Keep track of the changes you notice, such as the appearance of leaves or the length of the stem.

3. Measurement:

Use a ruler to measure the height of the plants every 2 or 3 days. Record the measurements in your notebook.

Sample Measurements (Hypothetical):

Conclusion:
At the end of two weeks, you can calculate the total growth of the plant and describe any patterns you noticed, like how fast the plant grew each day. You might also mention the number of leaves and any other changes, such as the plant’s colour or texture. The exact measurements will vary based on the growing conditions (sunlight, water, and soil), but you should notice steady growth in height over the two weeks.

IV. Information skills and projects 

6. Meet some farmers in your locality and collect the following information and fill the table.

V. Drawing pictures and Model Making

7. Draw and label the life cycle of butterfly and frog.

VI. Appreciation 

8. a) Grow micro greens of green gram, mustard, black gram, millets, sesame etc., in paper cups and prepare delicious food items with the help of your mother.

Steps to Grow Microgreens:

1. Materials Needed:

• Seeds (green gram, mustard, black gram, millet, sesame)

• Paper cups

• Soil or cotton (as a base for growing)

• Water

2. Steps:

• Fill the paper cups with soil or a layer of wet cotton.

• Sprinkle the seeds (green gram, mustard, black gram, millet, sesame) on top of the soil or cotton.

• Lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or press them into the cotton.

• Water the cups gently to keep the seeds moist.

• Place the cups in a spot where they can get indirect sunlight.

• Water the seeds regularly and within 5–7 days, you will see the microgreens sprout.

3. Harvesting:

• Once the microgreens have grown to a few inches tall (usually within 10–14 days), they are ready to be harvested. Use scissors to trim the microgreens just above the soil or cotton.

Preparing Delicious Food Items:

With the help of your mother, you can prepare the following simple dishes using your freshly grown microgreens:

1. Microgreen Salad:

• Mix the microgreens with chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.

• Add a dash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a fresh, healthy salad.

2. Microgreen Sandwich:

• Take two slices of bread, spread some butter or cheese, and add the microgreens along with tomatoes and cucumbers for a nutritious sandwich.

3. Microgreen Stir-Fry:

• Lightly sauté the microgreens with garlic, onions, and a pinch of salt. This can be served as a side dish with rice or bread.

Conclusion:
Growing microgreens is fun and easy, and they are packed with nutrients. After harvesting, you can use them to make a variety of healthy, delicious dishes with the help of your mother. This activity also teaches you about how plants grow and how food is prepared.

b) Persons and institutions behind the rice we eat