Q. Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct? - They are generally red in colour.
- They are rich in nitrogen and potash.
- They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP.
- Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below. (UPSC Prelims 2013)
Answer:
1 and 4
Notes: The correct answer is
[C] 1 and 4. Laterite soils are unique to tropical regions with high temperature and heavy seasonal rainfall, resulting from the process of intense "leaching."
- Red in Colour (Statement 1 is Correct): Laterite soils are generally red due to the presence of iron oxides. When the soil is formed through leaching, silica is washed away, leaving behind a high concentration of iron and aluminum.
- Nutrient Content (Statement 2 is Incorrect): These soils are actually poor in nitrogen, potash, phosphoric acid, and calcium. The heavy rainfall (leaching) washes these nutrients out of the topsoil, making the soil acidic and generally infertile for traditional agriculture without heavy manuring.
- Geographical Distribution (Statement 3 is Incorrect): Laterite soils are found in areas of high rainfall and are most well-developed on the summits of the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Rajmahal Hills, and parts of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Assam. They are not characteristic of the dry plains of Rajasthan or the alluvial belts of Uttar Pradesh.
- Suitable Crops (Statement 4 is Correct): While naturally infertile, these soils respond well to fertilizers. They are particularly suitable for plantation crops. Red laterite soils in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala are famous for Cashew nut cultivation. They are also ideal for Tapioca, rubber, tea, and coffee.