In the agricultural geography of Kerala, the cropping pattern exhibits distinct zonation based on altitude, soil type, and rainfall distribution. Which high-altitude agro-climatic zone is primarily dedicated to large-scale commercial plantations of tea, coffee, and cardamom?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The High Range Zone of Kerala, encompassing districts like Idukki and parts of Wayanad, features cool temperatures, acidic forest soils, and heavy rainfall ideal for tea, coffee, cardamom, and pepper cultivation. Onattukara represents sandy coastal tracts suited for coconut and annual crops. Saline zones are restricted to waterlogged coastal paddy fields affected by tidal action. Palakkad plain is characterized by paddy cultivation and dry land farming due to rain-shadow influences. Plantation agriculture forms a major pillar of the state's agrarian economy.