NCERT Class 8 Science — Chapter 1: Crop production and management

mcqeasy

Which one of the following plant leaves is traditionally used in Indian households to protect stored grains from insect infestation?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

ANeem leaves
BBanana leaves
CMango leaves
DPeepal leaves

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is

Neem leaves

Explanation

Traditional Indian agricultural practices utilize specific plant materials as natural biopesticides to preserve stored food grains from pests and insects, avoiding the need for synthetic chemicals.

Detailed Analysis:

Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica): Dried neem leaves are traditionally placed in grain storage bins in Indian households. Neem contains active compounds, most notably azadirachtin, which acts as a potent insect repellent and anti-feedant. It disrupts the growth and reproduction of pests, thereby protecting stored grains like wheat and rice from infestation.
Mango leaves: These leaves hold cultural and religious significance and are often used for decoration (Torans) or rituals. They are not traditionally used for the preservation of stored grains.
Peepal leaves: While the Peepal tree has medicinal and religious importance, its leaves are not employed as a deterrent for grain pests.
Banana leaves: These are widely used as biodegradable plates for serving food or for wrapping food during cooking. They do not possess the specific insecticidal properties required for long-term grain storage.

Key Takeaway: Dried neem leaves are a traditional, eco-friendly method for protecting stored grains from insects due to the presence of natural insecticidal compounds like azadirachtin.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Crop production and management

Which one of the following is an organic soil amendment derived from the decomposition of plant or animal waste?

easy

With reference to the cropping patterns in India, consider the following statements: 1. Kharif crops are generally sown in the rainy season which spans from June to September. 2. Wheat, gram, and mustard are examples of Kharif crops. 3. Rabi crops are grown during the winter season from October to March. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

easy

Consider the following statements regarding the preparation of soil: 1. Loosening the soil makes it compact and prevents root penetration. 2. Turning the soil brings nutrient-rich soil to the top for plant utilization. 3. Loosened soil promotes the growth of earthworms and soil microbes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

With reference to agricultural implements, consider the following statements: 1. A ploughshare is the strong triangular iron strip found in a plough. 2. A hoe is a tool used exclusively for sowing seeds. 3. A cultivator is a manual tool used for harvesting crops. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Consider the following statements regarding the sowing of seeds: 1. Damaged seeds are generally lighter than healthy seeds and float on water. 2. The traditional tool for sowing seeds is shaped like a flat blade. 3. A seed drill ensures that seeds are covered by soil after sowing to protect them from birds. Which of the statements given above are correct?

medium

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The correct option is

Neem leaves

Explanation

Traditional Indian agricultural practices utilize specific plant materials as natural biopesticides to preserve stored food grains from pests and insects, avoiding the need for synthetic chemicals.

Detailed Analysis:

Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica): Dried neem leaves are traditionally placed in grain storage bins in Indian households. Neem contains active compounds, most notably azadirachtin, which acts as a potent insect repellent and anti-feedant. It disrupts the growth and reproduction of pests, thereby protecting stored grains like wheat and rice from infestation.
Mango leaves: These leaves hold cultural and religious significance and are often used for decoration (Torans) or rituals. They are not traditionally used for the preservation of stored grains.
Peepal leaves: While the Peepal tree has medicinal and religious importance, its leaves are not employed as a deterrent for grain pests.
Banana leaves: These are widely used as biodegradable plates for serving food or for wrapping food during cooking. They do not possess the specific insecticidal properties required for long-term grain storage.

Key Takeaway: Dried neem leaves are a traditional, eco-friendly method for protecting stored grains from insects due to the presence of natural insecticidal compounds like azadirachtin.