The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
The sugar industry is a raw material-oriented, weight-losing industry. Its location is primarily dictated by the availability of sugarcane within a short radial distance to minimize transportation costs and sucrose loss (driage). The climatic conditions significantly influence the quality of the raw material.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Sugarcane is inherently a tropical crop. While it is extensively grown in the sub-tropical belt of North India (e.g., Uttar Pradesh), the tropical states of South India (e.g., Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu) offer superior climatic conditions. The tropical climate ensures a higher sucrose content in the cane and a higher yield per unit area. Furthermore, the absence of harsh winters in the South allows for a longer crushing season compared to the North.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: India is not the largest importer of sugar. India is traditionally the world's largest consumer and the second-largest producer of sugar (after Brazil). In recent years, India has acted as a net exporter of sugar. Countries like Indonesia and China are typically among the largest importers of sugar globally.
Key Takeaway:
The efficiency of the sugar industry depends heavily on the sucrose content and the duration of the crushing season, both of which are superior in tropical climates compared to sub-tropical regions.