Turmeric Farming as a Wildlife-Resistant Crop in Kerala’s Munnar Region

 

Q1. With reference to turmeric farming in the tribal settlements of Kerala’s Munnar region, consider the following statements:

1.      Turmeric farming was introduced with the support of the Forest Department to mitigate crop-raiding by wild animals.

2.      Wild animals such as elephants and wild boars tend to avoid turmeric farms.

3.      Turmeric farming is being practiced only in the Eravikulam National Park region under the Munnar wildlife division.

4.      Turmeric cultivation on these lands yields an average of five tonnes per acre.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer:  B. 1, 2 and 4 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct – The Forest Department financially supported turmeric farming to reduce the wild animal threat.
• Statement 2 is correct – Wild animals including elephants and wild boars avoid turmeric farms.
• Statement 3 is incorrect – Turmeric farming is being expanded across Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, and Anamudi National Park, not just Eravikulam.
• Statement 4 is correct – The average yield reported is five tonnes per acre.

Question 2. In the context of sustainable agriculture and wildlife conflict mitigation, consider the following statements:

1. Turmeric cultivation can be used as a natural deterrent to wild animals such as elephants.
2. The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Eravikulam National Park are located in Kerala’s Wayanad district.
3. Forest departments in India are not allowed to support farming activities within protected areas.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2 and 3 only

Correct Answer: A. 1 only

• Statement 2 is incorrect: Chinnar and Eravikulam are in Idukki, not Wayanad.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The Forest Department did support turmeric farming under supervision in protected areas.

Question 3.  Which of the following best explains why turmeric is being promoted for cultivation in tribal areas of Kerala’s Munnar region?

A. It requires very little water and grows in all soil types.
B. It is a traditional crop with high medicinal value.
C. It deters wild animals and helps reduce human-animal conflict.
D. It is a government-mandated crop for organic farming missions.

Correct Answer: C. It deters wild animals and helps reduce human-animal conflict.