Breeding

• Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) $\rightarrow$ (IV) Poaceae: Aromatic perennial grass family.
• Basil (Ocimum basilicum) $\rightarrow$ (III) Lamiaceae: Mint family characterized by square stems and bilabiate flowers.
• Acorus (Acorus calamus, Sweet Flag) $\rightarrow$ (I) Araceae: Semi-aquatic monocot traditionally assigned to Araceae (now in monotypic Acoraceae).
• Jasmine (Jasminum spp.) $\rightarrow$ (II) Oleaceae: Olive family characterized by opposite leaves and salverform fragrant corollas.
• Correct Option: Option 2 ((A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)).

• Horticultural Statistics (Area under Flower Crops 2020–21):
• Kerala $\rightarrow$ (II) 53.26 '000 Ha: Substantial area recorded under loose flowers, tropical orchids, anthurium, and homestead floriculture plantings.
• Gujarat $\rightarrow$ (I) 19.99 '000 Ha: Commercial cultivation centered on marigold, rose, and gaillardia.
• Tamil Nadu $\rightarrow$ (IV) 42.92 '000 Ha: Major traditional loose flower producing state (jasmine, tuberose, crossandra, marigold).
• Uttar Pradesh $\rightarrow$ (III) 22.58 '000 Ha: Extensive loose flower and gladiolus farming in central and western plains.
• Correct Combination: (A)-(II), (B)-(I), (C)-(IV), (D)-(III), matching Option 4.

Correct option: (4) (A)- (II), (B)- (0), (C)1V), (DCI)