1000 Most Important Agronomy MCQs with Explanation for ICAR JRF, NET, AFO & All Agriculture Exams
Among the following, which is NOT considered as a principle in ‘System of Rice Intensification’ (SRI)? a) Wider spacing of 25 cm × 25 cm b) Transplanting young seedlings (8-12 days old) c) Planting single seedling per hill d) Weed management with herbicides
Answer: d) Weed management with herbicides
*Explanation: SRI principles include: young seedlings (8-12 days), single seedling per hill, wider spacing (25×25 cm or more), intermittent irrigation, and mechanical weeding (conoweeder). Herbicide use is NOT a principle of SRI, which emphasizes organic/natural methods. This question distinguishes between SRI principles and conventional practices .*
A soil conservation practice that minimizes soil erosion and also ensures safe removal of excess runoff water: a) Tied ridging b) Contour bunding c) Graded bunding d) Basin listing
Answer: c) Graded bunding
*Explanation: Graded bunding (or graded terraces) are constructed with a slight gradient (0.2-0.5%) to safely dispose of excess runoff while controlling erosion. Contour bunding impounds water (in-situ conservation) but doesn’t safely remove excess water. Tied ridging is for moisture conservation in drylands. Basin listing creates small basins for water harvesting .*
Given the N uptake of a crop is 220 kg/ha, the approximate Ca uptake would be: a) 440 kg/ha b) 44 kg/ha c) 110 kg/ha d) 22 kg/ha
Answer: b) 44 kg/ha
*Explanation: Based on general nutrient uptake ratios in crops, calcium uptake is approximately 20% of nitrogen uptake. Therefore, 220 kg N/ha × 0.20 = 44 kg Ca/ha. This relationship varies by crop but is a useful approximation for nutrient budgeting questions in exams .*
The herbicide recommended in KAU Weed wiper for the management of weedy rice is: a) Azimsulfuron b) Cyhalofop butyl c) Glufosinate ammonium d) Carfentrazone
Answer: c) Glufosinate ammonium
Explanation: The “Weed wiper” (rope wick applicator) is used for selective application of non-selective herbicides like glufosinate ammonium or glyphosate to control weedy rice (Oryza sativa f. spontanea) that grows above the crop canopy. The wiper applies herbicide only to taller weeds, minimizing crop damage. This is a specific Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) recommendation .
Which of the following is/are correct with respect to LEISA? Focuses on creating diversity ii. Promotes adoption of hybrid seeds iii. Relies on natural biological control of pests iv. Encourages recycling of resources
i and ii b) ii, iii and iv c) i, iii and iv d) All the above
Answer: c) i, iii and iv
Explanation: LEISA (Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture) emphasizes: creating diversity (crop rotations, intercropping), relying on natural biological control (IPM), and encouraging resource recycling (composting, green manuring). It does NOT promote hybrid seeds as a core principle (hybrids often require high inputs). LEISA focuses on minimizing external inputs .
Which organism proliferates in environments with high organic substrate conditions? a) Biotrophs b) Autotrophs c) Heterotrophs d) Autochthonous
Answer: d) Autochthonous
Explanation: Autochthonous microorganisms are native to the soil and proliferate in environments with high organic substrate conditions. This question appeared in IBPS AFO memory-based papers and tests soil microbiology knowledge .
The oestrous cycle duration in ewe (sheep) is: a) 20 days (18-24 days) b) 21 days (20-25 days) c) 15 days (14-18 days) d) 16 days (14-19 days)
Answer: d) 16 days (14-19 days)
*Explanation: The oestrous cycle in ewe (sheep) is approximately 16 days, ranging from 14-19 days. This is a standard animal husbandry question frequently asked in IBPS AFO exams .*
ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE) is located at: a) Ranchi b) Kolkata c) Kanpur d) Bhopal
Answer: d) Bhopal
Explanation: ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE) is located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. This question appears frequently in IBPS AFO and ICAR JRF exams testing knowledge of ICAR institute locations .
To determine water requirement of which crop, drum head culture technique is used? a) Wheat b) Potato c) Jute d) Rice
Answer: d) Rice
Explanation: Drum head culture technique (drum culture technique) is used to determine water requirement of rice by growing plants in drums/containers and measuring water consumption. This is a specific agronomic technique for rice water management studies .
Which microorganism or biopesticide shows symptoms similar to “caterpillar wilt” on plants? a) Bacillus thuringiensis b) Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus (NPV) c) Beauveria bassiana d) Bacillus sphaericus
Answer: b) Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus (NPV)
Explanation: NPV causes “wilt disease” in caterpillars – infected larvae become lethargic, stop feeding, and their bodies liquefy, hanging in an inverted “V” shape. This symptom is characteristic of viral infection. Bacillus thuringiensis causes paralysis, not wilting .
PSB (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria) is used for solubilizing which nutrient? a) Nitrogen b) Potassium c) Phosphorus d) Calcium
Answer: c) Phosphorus
Explanation: Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) like Pseudomonas straita and Bacillus megaterium convert insoluble soil phosphorus into plant-available forms. This is a standard biofertilizer question in agriculture exams .
The advanced stage of gully erosion where larger portions of soil are transported, common in alluvial soils, is called: a) Sheet erosion b) Rill erosion c) Ravine erosion d) Splash erosion
Answer: c) Ravine erosion
Explanation: Ravine erosion is the advanced stage of gully erosion characterized by deep, wide, and branched channels. It’s common in alluvial soils (Chambal ravines in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh). Sheet, rill, and splash are earlier stages of water erosion .
Woodland and trees widely spaced and covered by grasses, found in hot climate, is called: a) Mangrove b) Savannah c) Boreal d) Cloud
Answer: b) Savannah
Explanation: Savannah is a grassland ecosystem characterized by widely spaced trees with a continuous grass understory, found in hot, seasonally dry climates. Examples include African savannah and some parts of India. This tests knowledge of vegetation types .
Fat content present in double-toned milk is: a) 3% b) 2% c) 1.5% d) 2.5%
Answer: c) 1.5%
*Explanation: Double-toned milk contains 1.5% fat and 9.0% SNF (Solids-Not-Fat). Toned milk has 3% fat, standardized milk has 4.5% fat, and full cream milk has 6% fat. This is a standard dairy science question in IBPS AFO exams .*
Muga silkworm feeds on which plant? a) Morus alba b) Terminalia arjuna c) Machilus bombycina d) Ricinus communis
Answer: c) Machilus bombycina
Explanation: Muga silkworm (Antheraea assamensis) primarily feeds on Machilus bombycina (Som) and Litsea monopetala (Soalu). It is a semi-domesticated silkworm endemic to Assam and produces golden silk. Mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori) feeds on Morus alba .
Gibberellin was first isolated from: a) Fungus b) Virus c) Bacteria d) BGA
Answer: a) Fungus
Explanation: Gibberellin was first isolated from the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi (causes “bakanae” disease in rice) by Japanese scientists. This is a classic plant physiology question .
“Journal of Plant Nutrition” is published by: a) Indian Society of Soil Science b) American Society of Agronomy c) Taylor and Francis Limited d) Oxford Academic Press
Answer: c) Taylor and Francis Limited
Explanation: The Journal of Plant Nutrition is published by Taylor and Francis Limited. This type of question tests awareness of scientific publications and appears in IBPS AFO and ICAR JRF exams .
“Arka Puneet” is a variety of mango developed by crossing: a) Dassehari × Neelum b) Alphonso × Banganapalli c) Ratna × Alphonso d) Banganapalli × Alphonso
Answer: b) Alphonso × Banganapalli
Explanation: Arka Puneet is a mango variety developed by IIHR, Bangalore, through crossing Alphonso × Banganapalli. It is resistant to spongy tissue and produces oval-shaped fruits with good quality .
High organic content and humus containing soils are called: a) Peat b) Red c) Laterite d) Desert
Answer: a) Peat
*Explanation: Peat soils (Histosols) contain more than 20% organic matter and are formed in waterlogged conditions with slow decomposition. They are common in waterlogged areas like Kerala (Kuttanad), North-East India, and parts of West Bengal .*
In soil, both organic and inorganic colloids suspended in water carry which type of charge? a) Neutral b) Positive c) Negative d) Optimum
Answer: c) Negative
Explanation: Soil colloids (both organic humus and inorganic clay minerals) predominantly carry negative charges, which attract and hold positively charged ions (cations) like Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, K⁺, NH₄⁺. This is fundamental to cation exchange capacity (CEC) .
Which of the following is a non-protein nitrogen component in fish? a) TMAO b) Collagen c) Myosin d) Trypsin
Answer: a) TMAO
Explanation: TMAO (Trimethylamine oxide) is a non-protein nitrogen component in fish that contributes to its characteristic odor and flavor. Collagen and myosin are proteins, trypsin is an enzyme (also protein). This tests fisheries science knowledge .
Leaf Area Index (LAI) is measured by which instrument? a) Propeller meter b) Orifice meter c) Ceptometer d) Lux meter
Answer: c) Ceptometer
Explanation: A ceptometer is specifically designed to measure Leaf Area Index by quantifying light interception through the canopy. Lux meter measures light intensity, other meters are for flow measurement .
“Lordosis” disease in fish is caused by deficiency of which vitamin? a) Vitamin B12 b) Vitamin C c) Vitamin D d) Vitamin B2
Answer: b) Vitamin C
Explanation: Lordosis (spinal deformity) in fish is caused by Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) deficiency. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and proper bone formation in fish. This is a standard fisheries science question .
For the very first time, Artificial Insemination in India was introduced by: a) Sampath Kumaran b) P. Bhattacharya c) G. Choudhary d) G.C. Banerjee e) Elias Ivanhoff
Answer: b) P. Bhattacharya
Explanation: Artificial Insemination in India was first introduced by Dr. P. Bhattacharya at the Palace Dairy Farm, Mysore in 1939. He is considered the father of Artificial Insemination in India. This is a landmark history question in animal husbandry .
“Pusa Jai Kisan” is a variety of: a) Mustard b) Lentil c) Wheat d) Rice
Answer: c) Wheat
Explanation: Pusa Jai Kisan is a wheat variety developed by IARI, New Delhi. It is a high-yielding, rust-resistant variety suitable for the North Western Plains Zone. This question appeared in IBPS AFO memory-based papers .
In which demonstration type is the method shown to farmers (e.g., broadcasting, grafting, seed treatment) to explain new techniques? a) Extension education b) Frontline demonstration c) Method demonstration d) Result demonstration
Answer: c) Method demonstration
Explanation: Method demonstration shows farmers HOW to do something (techniques like grafting, seed treatment), while result demonstration shows the OUTCOME/benefits. Frontline demonstrations are conducted by scientists in farmers’ fields to demonstrate new technologies .
Which of the following is TRUE about the limit of KCC Scheme? a) Scale of finance + threshold operational holding + 5% for post-harvest loss b) Scale of finance + threshold operational holding + 10% for family expenses c) Scale of finance × extent of area cultivated + 10% of limit towards post-harvest + 20% towards repairs/maintenance + crop insurance
Answer: c) Scale of finance × extent of area cultivated + 10% of limit towards post-harvest + 20% towards repairs/maintenance + crop insurance
*Explanation: The KCC limit includes: scale of finance for the crop × extent of area cultivated + 10% of limit towards post-harvest expenses + 20% of limit towards repairs/maintenance of farm assets + crop insurance premium. This detailed question appeared in IBPS AFO exams .*
In the cost concept A2+FL used for MSP calculation, what does “FL” indicate? a) Comprehensive cost of rent of own land b) Interest on own capital c) Future loss because of uncertainties d) Wages taken as labour of his own family members
Answer: d) Wages taken as labour of his own family members
*Explanation: In agricultural cost concepts, A2+FL includes actual paid-out costs (A2) plus the imputed value of family labor (FL). CACP uses this for MSP calculations. This question appeared in IBPS AFO exams .*
“Vanraja” chicken variety was developed by which institute? a) CARI, Izzatnagar b) DPR, Hyderabad c) KVAF, Bangalore d) CPBF, Mumbai
Answer: a) CARI, Izzatnagar
Explanation: Vanraja chicken variety was developed by Central Avian Research Institute (CARI), Izzatnagar. It is a dual-purpose (egg and meat) variety suitable for backyard poultry farming. This appeared in IBPS AFO exams .
Which inoculum when cultured in laboratory can be used to increase the availability of phosphorus in soil? a) Azolla b) Azospirillum c) Azotobacter d) Pseudomonas straita
Answer: d) Pseudomonas straita
Explanation: Pseudomonas straita is a phosphate-solubilizing bacterium (PSB) that converts insoluble soil phosphorus into plant-available forms. Azotobacter and Azospirillum are nitrogen fixers; Azolla is a fern with Anabaena for nitrogen fixation .
Which nutrient is essential for eggshell formation in poultry? a) Calcium b) Phosphorus c) Magnesium d) Iron
Answer: a) Calcium
*Explanation: Calcium is essential for eggshell formation. A laying hen requires 4-5 g of calcium daily, primarily as calcium carbonate for shell formation. Deficiency causes thin-shelled or shell-less eggs. This is a standard poultry science question .*
What is the electrical conductivity (EC) range of soil (dS/m) considered good for satisfactory crop production under proper drainage? a) 3 to 4 b) 0.25-0.50 c) 0.5-2.0 d) 0.10-0.25
Answer: c) 0.5-2.0 dS/m
*Explanation: Soils with electrical conductivity between 0.5-2.0 dS/m are considered good for satisfactory crop production under proper drainage practices. EC > 4 dS/m indicates saline soils .*
The phenomenon by which heterozygous individuals are phenotypically distinguishable from homozygous types is called: a) Genetic recombination b) Heritability c) Heredity d) Incomplete dominance
Answer: d) Incomplete dominance
Explanation: In incomplete dominance, heterozygotes show an intermediate phenotype distinguishable from both homozygotes (e.g., pink flowers in snapdragon from red × white cross). This tests genetics basics .
The irradiation amount required (in kGy) to stop sprouting in potato and reduce solanine production is: a) 0.03 b) 0.1 c) 0.01 d) 0.25
Answer: a) 0.03
*Explanation: A low dose of 0.03 kGy (30 Gy) is sufficient to inhibit sprouting in potatoes, which also reduces solanine (toxic glycoalkaloid) production during storage. This tests post-harvest technology knowledge .*
What is the germination percentage required for hybrid seed production of tomato? a) 80% b) 85% c) 70% d) 75%
Answer: a) 80%
Explanation: The minimum germination percentage required for hybrid tomato seed production is 80%. Seed quality standards are frequently tested in seed technology sections .
What is the correct time for harvesting Button mushrooms? a) When cap opens fully b) When the mushroom attains egg/button stage c) When veil breaks d) When pileus expands
Answer: b) When the mushroom attains egg/button stage
Explanation: Button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) are harvested at the button stage when the cap is still closed and mushroom is egg-shaped. This ensures best quality and shelf life .
GMO food developed using genetic engineering or containing microorganisms is classified as: a) Organic food b) Novel food c) Conventional food d) Genetically modified food
Answer: b) Novel food
Explanation: Novel foods are foods or food ingredients that have not been significantly consumed by humans before a certain date and include GMOs, foods with new molecular structure, or those from new sources/processes. This is a food technology question .
For artificial insemination (AI), semen after equilibration with glycerol is stored at -196°C using: a) Liquid nitrogen b) Helium and nitrogen c) Sodium d) Burst ice
Answer: a) Liquid nitrogen
*Explanation: Frozen semen for AI is stored at -196°C in liquid nitrogen (LN₂) containers. Glycerol is used as a cryoprotectant during freezing. This tests animal reproduction knowledge .*
Who has been appointed as the convenor of the Sub-Committees of the District Consultative Committee for the regulation of credits? a) LDO of RBI b) DDM NABARD c) Lead District Manager d) District Collector
Answer: c) Lead District Manager
Explanation: The Lead District Manager (LDM) is appointed as the convenor of Sub-Committees of the District Consultative Committee for credit regulation. This tests knowledge of agricultural credit structure .
Marigold is used as a trap crop for which pest? a) Jassids b) Thrips c) Nematodes d) Aphids
Answer: c) Nematodes
Explanation: Marigold (Tagetes spp.) is used as a trap crop for nematodes due to its root exudates that attract and trap root-knot nematodes. It is also used as a companion crop for nematode management in vegetable production .
The maximum limit per borrower in the agriculture sector under Priority Sector Lending (PSL) by banks (excluding NBFC-MFIs) is: a) ₹10 lakh b) ₹15 lakh c) ₹20 lakh d) ₹25 lakh
Answer: b) ₹15 lakh
*Explanation: The maximum limit per borrower in the agriculture sector under Priority Sector Lending by banks (excluding NBFC-MFIs) is ₹15 lakh. This tests knowledge of agricultural credit policies .*
What are the symptoms of Brucellosis disease in goats? a) Abortion in late pregnancy b) Abdomen pain and loss of appetite c) Abortion or delivery of immature baby d) Fever, nasal discharge and coughing
Answer: a) Abortion in late pregnancy
Explanation: Brucellosis in goats (caused by Brucella melitensis) primarily causes abortion in late pregnancy, along with retained placenta and reduced milk yield. It is a zoonotic disease. This tests animal disease knowledge .
Genetically modified crops have been developed to enhance ______ to pests, increase crop yields, and ______ various agricultural challenges. Fill in the blanks with suitable words: a) Frugal, thrift b) Dally, tether c) Aplomb, roving d) Resistance, address
Answer: d) Resistance, address
Explanation: This question appeared in NABARD Grade A 2023 Memory Based Paper. “Resistance” to pests and “address” challenges are the correct collocations in the context of genetically modified crops. The other options do not fit the agricultural context .
The ASRB NET Mains Exam for Agronomy is scheduled to be held on which date in 2026? a) 15th February 2026 b) 1st March 2026 c) 10th April 2026 d) 20th May 2026
Answer: b) 1st March 2026
Explanation: According to official notifications, the ASRB NET Mains Exam is set to be held on 1st March 2026. Candidates preparing for the exam should leverage previous year papers for effective practice .
What is the marking scheme for wrong answers in the ASRB NET Agronomy exam? a) 0.25 marks deducted b) 0.50 marks deducted c) 1/3 marks deducted (0.33) d) 1 mark deducted
Answer: c) 1/3 marks deducted (0.33)
*Explanation: According to the ASRB NET Exam Pattern 2026, 1/3 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer. The exam consists of 150 objective type multiple choice questions for 150 marks, with 2 hours duration .*
What is the total marks for the ICAR JRF exam? a) 300 marks b) 400 marks c) 480 marks d) 500 marks
Answer: c) 480 marks
*Explanation: The ICAR JRF exam consists of 120 multiple choice questions with a total of 480 marks (80+200+200). Part A (General Knowledge) – 20 questions for 80 marks, Part B (Core Group) – 50 questions for 200 marks, and Part C (Specialized Subject) – 50 questions for 200 marks. Each correct answer gives +4 marks, and each incorrect answer gives -1 mark .*
According to the NABARD Grade A 2023 analysis, how many questions were asked from Agronomy in the ARD section? a) 2 questions b) 5 questions c) 8 questions d) 10 questions
Answer: b) 5 questions
*Explanation: According to the NABARD Grade A 2023 exam analysis, 5 questions were asked from Agronomy in the ARD (Agriculture and Rural Development) section. In 2022, 6 questions were asked from Agronomy. Schemes/MSP/Current Affairs had the highest weightage with 6-8 questions
