Q. Name the following. (i) A process of preparing compost by the help of earthworms. (ii) The practice of ploughing green legume-bearing plants into the soil for improving its fertility. (iii) Growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same piece of land. (iv) A farming system with minimal or no use of chemicals as fertilisers and with a maximum input of organic manures, recycled farm wastes, and bio-agents, with healthy cropping systems.

(i) Vermicomposting: This is the process of preparing compost with the help of earthworms. It involves feeding organic waste materials to earthworms, which then digest and decompose the waste, turning it into nutrient-rich compost.

(ii) Green manuring: This is the practice of ploughing green legume-bearing plants into the soil to improve its fertility. Legume plants have the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and transfer it to the soil, enriching it with essential nutrients.

(iii) Intercropping: This refers to the practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same piece of land. It helps maximize the use of available resources, such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, and can also provide benefits like pest control and soil erosion prevention.

(iv) Organic farming: This is a farming system that minimizes or eliminates the use of chemicals as fertilizers and instead relies on organic manures, recycled farm wastes, and bio-agents. It promotes the use of natural methods to maintain soil fertility, control pests and diseases, and ensure healthy cropping systems.