"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 that crop?

• (a) Cotton: Cotton is a subtropical crop, highly sensitive to frost, needs about 210 frost-free days, 50–100 cm rainfall, and grows best in light, well-drained soils that retain moisture. Correct.
• (b) Jute: Jute needs high temperature and heavy rainfall (usually well above 100 cm) and is mainly grown in alluvial soils. Incorrect.
• (c) Sugarcane: Sugarcane is frost-sensitive, but it generally requires much higher rainfall/water supply and a longer growing season than stated here. Incorrect.
• (d) Tea: Tea requires heavy rainfall, humid conditions, and specific acidic hill slopes, not the given rainfall/soil profile. Incorrect.

Answer: (a) Cotton