How does a normal monsoon help farming?

Correct answer: It helps soil moisture and irrigation

The direct answer is option A: a normal monsoon helps soil moisture and irrigation. Farming needs water at suitable times for seed germination, plant growth, flowering, and grain formation. Monsoon rain adds water to the soil, fills ponds and reservoirs, raises groundwater, and supplies rivers and canals. This can reduce dependence on uncertain private water sources, although too much or badly timed rain can still cause floods or crop damage. Option A is correct because normal, reasonably distributed rainfall supports both rain-fed farming and stored irrigation water. Option B is wrong because normal rainfall generally feeds rivers instead of drying all of them. Option C is wrong because crops need water; the monsoon does not keep them away from water. Option D is wrong because normal rain usually supports cultivation rather than always making land barren. The word “normal” is important: it means rainfall close to the expected amount and timing, not an extreme drought or flood. A useful exam cue is: normal monsoon, adequate soil moisture, better agricultural prospects.