The following can increase crop production EXCEPT

Step 1: Analyze the question We are asked which option does NOT increase crop production. Four options help raise yields, and one does not (or may even reduce yields).

Step 2: Explain the concepts

• Erosion control: Prevents loss of fertile topsoil, so soil fertility is kept and yields stay high.
• Fertilizer application: Supplies nutrients (N, P, K) that plants need, so yields go up.
• Mechanization: Using tractors, harvesters and similar machines lets farmers cultivate larger areas quickly and on time, which raises total output.
• Monocropping: Growing the same crop on the same land year after year. It depletes particular nutrients, encourages a build-up of pests and diseases specific to that crop, and causes soil degradation. Over time it lowers yields rather than raising them.
• Pest control: Reduces crop losses to insects, weeds and diseases, so more of the crop survives to harvest.

Step 3: Eliminate options

• A, B, C and E all clearly increase production.
• D (monocropping) has the disadvantages above and is the odd one out. Crop rotation and mixed cropping are the practices that help maintain yields.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. monocropping.

Tip: In "EXCEPT" questions, look for the practice that harms the soil or encourages pests. Remember the pairing: monocropping = soil exhaustion + pest build-up, while crop rotation = soil restoration.