Correct Answer: less

Solution : The correct choice is the third option.

The word less directly relates to a reduction in rainfall and an increase in demand for borewells, indicating a decrease in water availability or usage, which aligns with the situation described in Andhra Pradesh.

Correct Answer: To supply water to crops

Solution : The primary purpose of irrigation in agriculture is to supply water to crops, ensuring their growth and productivity, especially in areas with insufficient rainfall.

Correct Answer: The rise of commercial agriculture and cash crops

Solution : Correct Option: Option 2
Explanation: The shift in agrarian relations during the 16th and 17th centuries led to the rise of commercial agriculture and cash crops, as there was an increasing focus on producing goods for the market rather than solely for subsistence.

Correct Answer: Meghalaya

Solution : The correct answer is Meghalaya.

The ancient bamboo drip irrigation method is still used in the Indian state of Meghalaya. This traditional and eco-friendly irrigation involves using bamboo pipes to supply water to agricultural fields and has been practised in Meghalaya for centuries.

Correct Answer: hand

Solution : The correct choice is the second option.

The phrase on the other hand is an idiomatic expression used to introduce a contrasting or opposing point or situation. In the context provided, it sets up a contrast between the situations mentioned in the previous sentences and what is about to be described. This phrase helps to contrast the situations in different regions, indicating a shift to a different perspective or condition.

Correct Answer: Grievances of peasants leading to unrest

Solution : The Deccan Riots Report shed light on the grievances of peasants leading to unrest, documenting the economic and social factors that contributed to the outbreak of riots in the Deccan region.

Correct Answer: Implementing precision irrigation technologies

Solution : Implementing precision irrigation technologies, such as drip or sprinkler systems, is an effective strategy for water conservation in agriculture, as it delivers water directly to the plant roots, reducing waste and evaporation.

Correct Answer: Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme

Solution : The correct answer is the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme.

The Indian government has chosen to combine the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) and the recently formed Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). The AIBP was established in 1996 with the goal of accelerating the completion of ongoing large and midsize irrigation works, including national projects. The PMKSY was created with the goal of expanding irrigation coverage and improving water usage efficiency by providing an end-to-end solution for source production, distribution, administration, field usage and outreach programmes.

Correct Answer: Tamil Nadu

Solution : The correct option is Tamil Nadu.

In the country's rocky plateau regions, particularly in the plateau region of Southern India, tank irrigation is more prevalent. Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are the principal states where they are practised. The state with the most irrigation tanks is Andhra Pradesh. In the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, tank irrigation currently makes up more than 30% of all crop irrigation. In Tamil Nadu alone, there are about 39,000 irrigation tanks of various sizes.

Correct Answer: Indira Gandhi Canal

Solution : The correct answer is the Indira Gandhi Canal.

The Indira Gandhi Canal is the longest canal system in India. It starts at Harike Barrage and flows parallel to the India-Pakistan border. The primary aim of the project was to provide irrigation facilities in Rajasthan. Harike Barrage is formed at the confluence of the rivers Sutlej and Beas in the state of Punjab, and the Indira Gandhi Canal passes through the states of Punjab, Rajasthan and Haryana.