Which of the following is NOT a reason given in NCERT for diversifica…

Which of the following is NOT a reason given in NCERT for diversification into other productive activities in rural areas?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 4

The correct answer is Option (4) → Minimum support prices for food grains are rising every year

Diversification is needed because depending only on farming is risky and farm work is scarce in the Rabi season. Other sectors give extra work and higher income. Rising MSP is not a reason given for it.

Option (1) There is greater risk in depending exclusively on farming for livelihood — True. This is where the need for diversification arises.

Option (2) In areas with inadequate irrigation, it is difficult to find gainful employment in the Rabi season — True. Farm work falls in the Rabi season.

Option (3) It provides supplementary gainful employment and higher levels of income — True. This is what other sectors provide.

Option (4) Minimum support prices for food grains are rising every year — False. MSP is a marketing policy instrument to protect farm income. It is not a reason for leaving farming for other work.

NCERT (2026-27): “5.5 Diversification into Productive Activities Diversification includes two aspects - one relates to change in cropping pattern and the other relates to a shift of workforce from agriculture to other allied activities (livestock, poultry, fisheries etc.) and non-agriculture sector. The need for diversification arises from the fact that there is greater risk in depending exclusively on farming for livelihood. Diversification towards new areas is necessary not only to reduce the risk from agriculture sector but also to provide productive sustainable livelihood options to rural people. Much of the agricultural employment activities are concentrated in the Kharif season. But during the Rabi season, in areas where there are inadequate irrigation facilities, it becomes difficult to find gainful employment. Therefore expansion into other sectors is essential to provide supplementary gainful employment and in realising higher levels of income for rural people to overcome poverty and other tribulations. …”