The correct option is (b).
Explanation
Crop variety improvement aims to develop crop strains with desirable traits such as high yield, improved quality, and resistance to environmental stresses. These improvements are achieved through breeding techniques, including hybridization and genetic modification.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Developing varieties with wider adaptability allows a single crop variety to be grown successfully under diverse climatic conditions and in different areas. It expands the scope of production rather than restricting it to specific regions.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Short duration maturity reduces the time a crop occupies the agricultural land. This enables farmers to grow multiple rounds of crops in a single year (multiple cropping), reduces production costs, and minimizes weather-related risks during the harvesting phase.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. Biotic resistance refers to the ability of crops to resist living organisms such as diseases, insects, and nematodes. Resilience against non-living environmental factors like drought, salinity, heat, and cold is classified as abiotic resistance.
Key Takeaway:
Crop improvement objectives include wider adaptability to stabilize yields across diverse environments and distinguishing between biotic stresses (living pests/diseases) and abiotic stresses (climatic factors like drought or salinity).