Economy & Agriculture — Set 12

Correct Answer: B. Panchkula and Ambala (foothills)

Panchkula and Ambala districts in the Shivalik foothills zone of Haryana have the largest area under horticulture including mango, lychee, guava, and various vegetables. The sub-mountainous topography and climate is suitable for diverse fruit cultivation. Haryana has been promoting horticulture as a high-value alternative to the wheat-rice cycle. The state government provides polyhouse subsidies and post-harvest infrastructure support in horticultural districts.

Correct Answer: B. Regulatory body overseeing APMC mandis and agricultural marketing infrastructure in Haryana

HSAMB (Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board) oversees the development, regulation, and management of agricultural produce markets (APMC mandis) in Haryana. It collects market fee from mandi transactions and reinvests in mandi infrastructure, rural roads, and market development. HSAMB ensures that farmers receive fair prices and that mandis are well-maintained with proper storage, weighing, and auctioning facilities. Haryana has over 100 principal market yards and 260 sub-market yards managed under HSAMB.

Correct Answer: D. Global City project near Gurugram

The Global City project near Gurugram (at Kherki Majra/Nakhrola) is Haryana's most ambitious urban development project planned to create a world-class city with smart infrastructure, international business centers, and mixed land use development. The project is being developed by HSIIDC and private developers. Global City aims to position Gurugram as a globally competitive commercial and residential destination. The project spans thousands of acres and involves massive infrastructure investment.

Correct Answer: C. Agriculture and allied activities

Agriculture and allied activities (farming, animal husbandry, fisheries) remain the largest employer in Haryana with approximately 70% of the population directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture for livelihood. While Gurugram's IT sector and manufacturing industries dominate GSDP, agriculture still employs the largest share of the workforce. This represents a classic structural transformation challenge where GDP is shifting from agriculture to industry/services but employment shift is slower.

Correct Answer: A. Ambala

Ambala has a significant printing and publishing industry, producing educational books, stationery, and printed materials for schools and institutions across northern India. The city is also home to scientific instrument manufacturers and the Ambala Cantonment area with its army presence. Ambala's proximity to both Punjab and Haryana education markets makes it a natural center for educational printing and publishing. The city's book market is well-known in the region.

Correct Answer: B. About 3-5%

The correct answer is 'About 3-5%'. Haryana contributes approximately 3-5% of India's total egg production and is among the top poultry-producing states. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu dominate India's egg production with much larger shares. Haryana's poultry sector has grown rapidly with many large commercial poultry farms in Karnal, Panipat, and Sonipat districts. The state's proximity to Delhi creates a strong demand pull for poultry products.

Correct Answer: B. Hisar

Rakhigarhi, located in Hisar district of Haryana, is the largest Harappan (Indus Valley Civilization) site discovered in the Indian subcontinent, larger than even Mohenjo-daro and Harappa in Pakistan. Excavations led by ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) have revealed multiple phases of Harappan civilization dating back to 2600-1900 BCE. The site includes granaries, drainage systems, cemeteries, and evidence of urban planning. A dedicated site museum is being developed at Rakhigarhi.

Correct Answer: B. NABARD Regional Office in Chandigarh serving Haryana

NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) Regional Office in Chandigarh serves Haryana and Punjab, providing refinance to cooperative banks, RRBs, and commercial banks for agricultural and rural development lending. NABARD funds rural infrastructure through RIDF (Rural Infrastructure Development Fund). It also promotes FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations) and rural credit flow in Haryana. Haryana State Cooperative Bank and various District Cooperative Central Banks work closely with NABARD.

Correct Answer: B. Regional imbalance between prosperous NCR belt and backward interior + agricultural water crisis

The correct answer is Regional imbalance between prosperous NCR belt and backward interior + agricultural water crisis. Haryana's major economic challenges are: (1) Regional imbalance between the booming NCR belt (Gurugram, Faridabad) and the underdeveloped interior (Mewat/Nuh, Mahendragarh, Charkhi Dadri); (2) Severe groundwater depletion crisis threatening long-term agricultural sustainability; (3) Diversifying from the wheat-rice cultivation cycle to higher-value crops; (4) Creating employment for its growing educated youth population. Addressing these challenges is critical for inclusive and sustainable growth in Haryana. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Pinjore (Panchkula)

Pinjore in Panchkula district hosts the Pinjore Heritage Festival and also promotes horticulture including mango cultivation in the Shivalik foothills region. The Pinjore Gardens (Yadavindra Gardens) are historic Mughal-style gardens that host cultural festivals. While Pinjore is more famous for its gardens and festivals, the Ambala-Panchkula belt has significant mango production. Haryana's 'Dussehri' and 'Langra' mangoes from this region are prized for quality.