“The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is the crop?

Answer: (a) Cotton

Cotton: 210 frost-free days, 50–100 cm rain, black or well-drained soil that holds moisture (NCERT).

The idea

Each clue removes crops: 50–100 cm rain kills jute and tea (both need far more); 210 frost-free days + light moisture-retaining soil fits cotton on the Deccan black soil.

Why the others are wrong

(b) Jute needs 150+ cm rain and hot, humid delta soils.

(c) Sugarcane needs 75–150 cm plus irrigation and a long hot season.

(d) Tea needs 150–300 cm of well-spread rain and hill slopes.

The trap

Sugarcane is also subtropical and frost-sensitive. The rainfall figure (50–100 cm) is the decider — too little for cane without irrigation.