NCERT Class 8 Science Science: Chapter 1 — Crop Production and Management
This chapter introduces the fundamental concepts of crop production and management, essential for feeding a large population. It explains that all living organisms need food for energy and survival, and while plants produce their own, animals and humans rely on plants or animals for sustenance. The chapter defines a crop as plants of the same kind grown on a large scale. It distinguishes between Kharif crops (sown in the rainy season, June-September, e.g., paddy, maize) and Rabi crops (sown in the winter season, October-March, e.g., wheat, gram). Basic agricultural practices like soil preparation, sowing, adding manure/fertilizers, irrigation, protecting from weeds, harvesting, and storage are outlined. Soil preparation, involving turning and loosening, is highlighted as crucial for root penetration, aeration, and nutrient availability, supporting beneficial soil organisms.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Science |
| Book | Science |
| Chapter | Chapter 1 — Crop Production and Management |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 330 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the necessity of food production on a large scale.
- Differentiate between Kharif and Rabi crops based on their growing seasons.
- Identify the basic practices involved in crop production.
- Explain the importance of soil preparation for crop growth.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Crop | When plants of the same kind are cultivated at one place on a large scale. |
| Kharif Crops | Crops which are sown in the rainy season (June to September). |
| Rabi Crops | Crops grown in the winter season (October to March). |
| Agriculture | The cultivation of land and production of crops. |
| Nomadic | Wandering from place to place in search of food and shelter. |
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Practice questions
- What is a crop? Answer: A crop is when plants of the same kind are cultivated at one place on a large scale.
- Name two Kharif crops. Answer: Paddy and maize are two Kharif crops.
- Name two Rabi crops. Answer: Wheat and gram are two Rabi crops.
- Why is preparation of soil important before growing a crop? Answer: Preparation of soil is important because it allows roots to penetrate deep, enables roots to breathe easily, and brings nutrient-rich soil to the top.
Frequently asked questions
Why do living organisms require food?
Living organisms require food to utilize energy for carrying out various body functions like digestion, respiration, and excretion.
What is the difference between Kharif and Rabi crops?
Kharif crops are sown in the rainy season (June-September), while Rabi crops are grown in the winter season (October-March).
Give examples of Kharif crops.
Examples of Kharif crops include paddy, maize, soyabean, groundnut, and cotton.
Give examples of Rabi crops.
Examples of Rabi crops include wheat, gram, pea, mustard, and linseed.
What is the first step before growing a crop?
The first step before growing a crop is the preparation of the soil.
Why is loosening the soil beneficial for plants?
Loosening the soil allows roots to penetrate deep, breathe easily, and access nutrients. It also supports beneficial soil organisms like earthworms and microbes.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Science — Science — Chapter 1 — Crop Production and Management. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.