GK Question

polity hard mcq

Article 48 directs the State to endeavor to organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines. Which of the following policy approaches BEST reflects this directive?

  1. Complete ban on cattle slaughter in all States
  2. Promotion of organic farming, sustainable livestock management, agricultural research
  3. Mandatory collectivization of all agricultural land
  4. Import of all food grains to ensure self-sufficiency

Answer: Promotion of organic farming, sustainable livestock management, agricultural research

Article 48 agriculture and animal husbandry directive: (a) Text: State shall endeavor to organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines, (b) Modern and scientific agriculture operationalization: (i) Agricultural research: ICAR, agricultural universities develop high-yield varieties, climate-resilient crops, sustainable practices, (ii) Technology adoption: Precision farming, drip irrigation, digital advisory services enhance productivity, resource efficiency, (iii) Sustainable practices: Organic farming, agroecology, soil health management align with environmental sustainability, long-term productivity, (c) Animal husbandry operationalization: (i) Veterinary services: Disease control, breeding programs improve livestock health, productivity, (ii) Sustainable livestock management: Balanced approach to cattle protection, dairy development, meat production respects Article 48 while addressing economic, cultural considerations, (iii) Value addition: Processing, marketing support enhances farmer incomes, reduces post-harvest losses, (d) Contrast with other options: (i) Complete cattle slaughter ban: Reflects Article 48's cow protection aspect but not comprehensive modern, scientific approach; varies by State law, (ii) Mandatory collectivization: Not aligned with Indian constitutional framework; land reforms focus on redistribution, not collectivization, (iii) Import dependence: Contradicts self-sufficiency goals; Article 48 emphasizes domestic organization, productivity enhancement, (e) Applications: (i) PM-KISAN: Income support for farmers enables investment in modern inputs, practices, (ii) e-NAM: Electronic National Agricultural Market enhances price discovery, reduces intermediation, (iii) Climate-smart agriculture: Research, extension on drought-resistant crops, water management address climate challenges, (f) Illustrates balanced agricultural policy: Article 48 operationalized through research, technology, sustainability; balance between productivity, environmental care, cultural sensitivities essential for realizing constitutional vision of modern, scientific agriculture.

Topic Article 48 - Organization of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry
Exam Relevance Article 48 agriculture policy critical for UPSC Mains and advanced SSC exams