The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
India has three major cropping seasons: Rabi, Kharif, and Zaid. The Rabi season corresponds to the winter months, characterized by lower temperatures and specific precipitation patterns essential for crops such as wheat, barley, peas, gram, and mustard.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Rabi crops are sown in the winter season, typically from October to December, and harvested in the summer months from April to June. This distinct seasonality differentiates them from Kharif crops, which are sown with the onset of the monsoon.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Precipitation during the winter months, brought about by western temperate cyclones (also known as Western Disturbances), is highly beneficial rather than harmful. This rainfall is crucial for the success of Rabi crops, particularly wheat, in the northwestern parts of India.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The success of Rabi crops is heavily dependent on irrigation. Since the winter season in India is generally dry (outside of the Western Disturbances), the availability of assured irrigation has been a critical factor in the expansion and productivity of these crops, notably in Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh during the Green Revolution.
Key Takeaway:
Rabi crops are winter-sown (Oct-Dec) and summer-harvested (Apr-Jun). Their productivity relies on irrigation and the beneficial winter rainfall caused by Western Disturbances.