Millets
Explanation
Millets are collectively referred to as coarse grains. These are hardy crops known for their high nutritional value and ability to thrive in adverse agro-climatic conditions, specifically in regions with low rainfall and poor soil quality.
Option Analysis
- Wheat: This is a rabi crop that requires a cool growing season and bright sunshine at the time of ripening. It thrives best in well-drained, fertile loamy soil, not in less fertile or sandy soils.
- Maize: Maize is a crop used both as food and fodder. It requires moderate temperature, rainfall, and sunshine. It grows best in old alluvial soil rather than sandy or poor-quality soils.
- Millets (Correct): Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi are the important millets grown in India. They are explicitly known as coarse grains and can be grown on less fertile and sandy soils. For instance, Bajra grows well on sandy soils and shallow black soil.
- Rice: Rice is a kharif crop that requires high temperature (above 25°C), high humidity, and annual rainfall above 100 cm. It grows best in clayey alluvial soil capable of retaining water.
Key Takeaway
Millets (such as Jowar, Bajra, and Ragi) are drought-resistant coarse grains specifically adapted to cultivation on less fertile and sandy soils.