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.
1, 2 and 3
2, 3 and 4
1 and 4
2 and 3 only
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2013
Laterite soils are formed under conditions of high temperature and heavy rainfall, leading to intense leaching. This process removes silica but leaves behind iron and aluminium oxides, which give the soil its characteristic red colour (Statement 1). These soils are generally poor in nutrients like nitrogen, potash, lime, and organic matter (Statement 2 incorrect). They are found in specific regions experiencing such climate, primarily in the Western and Eastern Ghats, parts of southern Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, etc., not typically Rajasthan and UP (Statement 3 incorrect). Despite being infertile, certain crops like tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on them with appropriate fertilization (Statement 4).