Question

Certain regions have houses smeared with cow dung. Why do people in these regions cover the floors and walls of their huts with cow dung and mud?
1. The smell of cow dung keeps the animals away
2. To make the floors and walls smooth
3. These are easily available materials in that region
4. To make it water-resistant and work as an insulator

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : To make it water-resistant and work as an insulator

Concept:

• Cow dung and cow urine are considered holy in India.
• Applying cow dung is part of the cleaning process in Indian villages.
• In festivals also, after cleaning their houses, rural people apply the cow-dung paste on walls and floors.
• It is just like how urban people make their houses painted for getting a festive feel.

Explanation:

• Cow dung has a very unpleasant smell.
• However, when mixed with water and mud the smell becomes un-noticeable to people.
• Insects on the other hand can still get the unpleasant smell of cow dung.
• As a result, the insects keep away from such places.
• Cow dung is also used to make houses water-resistant and work as an insulator.

Thus, rural people cow dung is used to coat the floor and walls of huts to make it water-resistant and work as an insulator.