Which one of the following is the total area, bounded within the irrigation boundary of a project, which can be economically irrigated without considering the limitation of the quantity of available water?
- AGross command areaCorrect
- BCultivable command area
- CNet and gross sown area
- DNet and gross irrigated area
Solution
Concept
Gross Command Area (GCA) is the total area within the irrigation boundary of a project that can be economically irrigated, without considering the limit of available water.
Formula
GCA = CCA + unculturable area (roads, ponds, villages, barren land)
Step-by-step solution
1. Recall the definition of Gross Command Area. 2. GCA is the total area inside the irrigation boundary that can be economically irrigated, ignoring water limits. 3. This matches the statement, so the answer is (A).
Explanation
Gross Command Area is the whole area inside the project boundary that can be irrigated economically if enough water is available. It also includes unculturable land like roads, ponds and villages. Cultivable Command Area is only the part of GCA that can be cultivated.
Why the other options are wrong
(B) CCA excludes unculturable land, so it is smaller than the total bounded area. (C) Sown area is the area actually under crops. (D) Irrigated area is the area actually irrigated, which depends on water supply.
Shortcut
Keyword 'total area within irrigation boundary' means Gross Command Area.
Common mistake
Confusing GCA with CCA. CCA leaves out the unculturable area.
Correct answer: A) Gross command area