What is subsistence farming?

• A. Growing crops for large-scale markets
• B. Growing just enough to meet basic needs
• C. Growing crops using automated systems
• D. Growing crops for export at high profits

Answer: (B)

Subsistence farming means growing food mainly to feed the farmer’s family and meet basic needs, not to sell for profit. It usually uses a small plot, simple tools, and family labor, with little or no surplus beyond what the household can store for the year. The aim is self-sufficiency—enough to eat and live on—rather than producing for large markets or high profits. This contrasts with farming that targets selling widely or exporting, which relies on more capital, machinery, and market access.