Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used in

Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used in

desert margins, liable to strong wind action
low flat plains, close to stream courses, liable to flooding
scrublands, liable to spread of weed growth
None of the above
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2013
The correct answer is D) None of the above.
Contour bunding is a soil conservation practice applied on gently sloping land. It involves constructing narrow-based bunds (embankments) along the contour lines. The purpose is to intercept and slow down water runoff, reduce soil erosion, and promote infiltration of water into the soil. This method is particularly effective in semi-arid areas for moisture conservation. The conditions described in options A, B, and C do not match the primary application of contour bunding. Option A describes desert margins prone to wind erosion. Option B describes low flat plains prone to flooding, where different flood control measures are used. Option C describes scrublands and weed growth, not directly addressed by contour bunding.
Contour bunding is typically implemented on agricultural fields, pastures, or other land with slopes ranging from around 2% to 10-15%. It is a key technique in watershed management and dryland farming to improve water retention and prevent loss of fertile topsoil due to water erosion.
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