Q. Consider the following statements:
1. The Government of India provides Minimum Support Price for niger (Guizotia abussinical seeds.
2. Niger is cultivated as a Kharif crop.
3. Some tribal people in India use niger seed oil for cooking..
How many of the above statements are correct?

[A] Only one

[B] Only two

[C] All three

[D] None

Answer: C
Notes:

Statement 1 is correct-The Government of India provides Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs. 6930 (absolute increase of Rs. 235 per quintal) for niger seeds for MSP 2021-22.

Niger, a minor oilseed crop, is primarily cultivated in rainfed areas. The seeds of Niger are utilized as a food source for humans. With an oil content ranging from 37% to 47%, the oil extracted from the seeds has a pale yellow color, a nutty flavor, and a pleasant aroma. This oil finds application in various domains such as culinary purposes, anointing the body, manufacturing paints and soft soaps, as well as for lighting and lubrication. Additionally, the fragrance-absorbing properties of Niger oil make it valuable to the perfume industry as a base oil. Moreover, it is believed that Niger oil can be used for contraception and as a treatment for syphilis.

MSP is a form of agricultural price support mechanism where the government guarantees a minimum price for certain crops to protect farmers from fluctuations in market prices. However, niger seeds are not included in the list of crops for which the government provides MSP.

Statement 2 is correct- Niger, also known as Guizotia abyssinica, is primarily cultivated as a Kharif crop in India. Kharif season refers to the monsoon season, typically from June to October, during which crops are sown and harvested.

Statement 3 is correct- The tribal communities incorporate niger seed oil into their cooking practices, utilize the press cake remaining after oil extraction as livestock feed, and even consume the seeds themselves as a condiment. Niger seed oil possesses medicinal properties, leading to its high demand in commercial sectors such as cosmetics, perfumeries, and related industries.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1725612

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/agriculture/illusive-oilseed-india-s-niger-seed-cultivation-is-declining-here-is-why-84380#:~:text=In%202020%2D21%2C%20the%20MSP,the%20MSP%20at%20Rs%207%2C287

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