The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Wheat is the second most important cereal crop in India. It is primarily a Rabi crop (sown in winter) that requires specific climatic conditions distinct from tropical crops like rice.
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Wheat is a crop of the temperate zone. It requires a cool growing season and bright sunshine at the time of ripening. It does not thrive in high temperature and high humidity; such conditions can lead to pest infestation and diseases. Ideally, it needs 10°C to 15°C during sowing and 21°C to 26°C during ripening.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Wheat requires a moderate amount of rainfall. The ideal requirement is 50 to 75 cm of annual rainfall evenly distributed over the growing season. In areas with less rainfall, irrigation is necessary.
- Statement 3 is Correct: There are two important wheat-growing zones in India: the Ganga-Satluj plains in the northwest and the black soil region of the Deccan. While the northwest is the primary production hub, the black soil region also supports significant wheat cultivation.
Key Takeaway: Wheat requires cool winters for growth, warm springs for ripening, and moderate rainfall (50-75 cm), making it suitable for the Northwest plains and the Deccan black soil region.