Consider the following statements regarding different soil types in India:

1. Black soil is poor in calcium carbonate, magnesium, and potassium but rich in phosphorus.

2. Laterite soil is highly fertile and supports intensive agriculture without the need for fertilizers.

3. Arid soil has a high salt content, making it unsuitable for cultivation without irrigation.

4. Red soil gets its color from the presence of ferric oxides and is mainly found in peninsular India.

How many of the above statements are correct?

The correct answer is option 2.

Key Points

• Statement 1 – Incorrect – Black soil (Regur soil) is rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, and potassium but lacks phosphorus and nitrogen with self ploughing properties.
• Statement 2 – Incorrect – Laterite soil is highly leached and infertile due to heavy rainfall. It requires fertilizers and soil management for agriculture.
• Statement 3 – Correct – Arid soil is saline and lacks moisture, making it unsuitable for crops without irrigation (found in Rajasthan, Gujarat).
• Statement 4 – Correct – Red soil gets its reddish color from iron oxides and is mainly found in peninsular India (Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand).
  • `Correct Answer: (b) Only two