Soils of Mizoram for Mizoram PSC

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Soils of Mizoram

Mizoram is a mountainous region which became the 23rd State of the Indian Union in February, 1987.
It was one of the districts of Assam till 1973 when it became a Union Territory.
Sandwiched between Myanmar in the east and south and Bangladesh in the west, Mizoram occupies an area of great strategic importance in the north-eastern corner of India. It has a total of 722 Km. boundary with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
Mizoram has the most variegated hilly terrain in the eastern part of India.
The hills are steep and are separated by rivers which flow whether to the north or south creating deep gorges between the hill ranges.
The Average height of the hill is about 1000 meters.
The highest peak in Mizoram is the Blue Mountain (Phawngpui) with a height of 2210 meters.

Common/General Features of Soils of Mizoram

Mizoram has a varied blend of climatic conditions ranging from tropical, sub-tropical to temperate conditions.
State has high mean annual rainfall of 2500 mm and high relative humidity upto 90%.
There is plenty of rainfall in a concentrated period of six months, leaving rest of the months relatively dry and water scarce.
Mizoram has primarily sand-loamy and clay-loamy Soil rich in organic carbon and moderately rich in available potash.
Due to high rainfall during May to September, soil is acidic ranging from 4.5-5.6 pH.
The fertility of Soils of Mizoram is affected by the cultivation practices employed by the people, soil erosion, landslides associated with high intensity rainfall and hailstorm.
The temperature during summer season varies from 20°C to 34°C and during the winter season varies from 8°C to 17°C.

Some Facts about Soils of Mizoram –Entisols/Inceptisols/Ultisols

All the Soils of Mizoram were acidic and about 57 per cent of Entisols, 42 per cent of Inceptisols and 77 per cent of Ultisols were high in available N.
About 71 per cent of Entisols, 100 per cent of Inceptisols and 77 per cent of Ultisols was high in available K, rest being medium in K.
All the soils were low to very low in available P and fixed on an average 82.6 to 96 per cent of added P (1000 ppm).
Phosphate fixation was positively related with clay, organic carbon and Fe and Al oxide’contents of soil and negatively with pH.
Phosphorus appears to be the most limiting nutrient for plant Growth.
These Soils of Mizoram have adequate supply of plant available Mn, Cu and Fe but, 71 per cent of Entisols, 33 per cent of Inceptisols and 20 per cent of Ultisols were deficient in zinc 0.8 ppm DTPA extractable Zn.
Total Soils of Mizoram acidity varied from 8.6 to 16.3 c mol (p+) kg-l .
The mean contribution of pH-dependent and exchange acidity to total acidity was 88 per cent and 12 per cent, respectively and exchangeable Al3t constituted 81 per cent of exchange acidity fraction.
The Al saturation of soil based on effective CEC was 43.0 per cent at pH 4.5 and was essentially zero at pH 5.6. These soils have low permanent.

Type of Soils of Mizoram

The Soils of Mizoram are classified by Sanker and Nandy into three orders of soil taxonomy :
Entisols,
Inceptisols
Ultisols
The Soils of Mizoram also fall under the above three orders.
They were generally young, immature and sandy.
The surface soils are dark, highly leached and poor in bases, rich in iron and have low pH values ranging from 4.5 – 5.5. (Highly Acidic).
They are well drained, rich in organic carbon, low in phosphate content and high in available potash.
The surface soil textures are loam to clay loam with clay content increasing in depth.
The pH and organic carbon content decreases with the increase in depth.
They are capable of providing substantial Oxygen supply for plant growth and retaining moisture for sufficient supply of oxygen throughout the year.
The percentages of clay silt and sand within 50cms.of the surface is 15-30%, 35-45% and 25 – 45% respectively.

Entisols

They are recently developed, mineral soils with no diagnostic horizon.
This is because either of limiting time available for development or because of exceedingly unfavorable conditions.
In USDA soil taxonomy, entisols are defined as soils that do not show any profile development other than an A horizon.
An entisol has no diagnostic horizons, and most are basically unaltered from their parent material, which can be unconsolidated sediment or rock.
They are moderately to deep, well drained, fine to fine loamy textured soils.
Families which have been identified under this orders are :-

Fine-loamy typic Udifluvents
Fine-loamy typic Udorthents
Coarse-loamy typic Udorthents
Fine-loamy Lithic Udorthents
Coarse loamy Lithic Udorthents

Inceptisols

This soil order represents beginning stage of soil formation which belong to that of Entisols but still short of the degree of development found in Alfisols.
They may have some accumulation of clay in the sub-surface horizon, limiting in depth, organic matter content, and base saturation.
Although not found under aridic Climate regimes, Inceptisols nevertheless are widely distributed and occur across a wide range of ecological settings
This soil dominates the entire State having fine loamy, fine clay, clay loam etc.
The identified families under this order are:

Fine- loamy Umbric Dystrochrepts
Fine loamy typic Dystrochrepts
Fine Umbric Dystrochrepts
Loamy , skeletal Umbric Dystrochrepts
Fine typic Dystrochrepts
Loamy-skeletal typic Dystrochrepts
Clayey-skeletal Umbric Dystrochrepts
Loamy-skeletal Pachic Haplumbrepts
Fine Pachic Haplumbrepts
Fine-loamy typic Haplumbrepts
Clayey-skeletal Pachic Haplumbrepts
Fine loamy Pachic Haplumbrepts
Fine-loamy Dystric Eutrochrepts
Coarse loamy typic Dystrocrepts
Loamy skeletal typic Dystrocrepts
Loamy skeletal Dystric Eutrocrepts

ULTISOLS

The Ultisols are similar with Alfisols, except for having low base saturation on the exchange complex due to advance stage at weathering.
These are base-poor mineral soils of humid region developed under high rainfall and forest vegetation.
The high acidity and relatively low quantities of plant-available Ca, Mg, and K associated with most Ultisols make them poorly suited for continuous agriculture without the use of fertilizer and lime
They are characterized by low, less than 35% base saturation and clay enriched sub-surface horizon.
This soil is sparely scattered in all parts of the State having fine loam, clay loam and clayey texture.
Well to excessively drained with moderate to deep soils. The families under this order which have been identified so far are :
1. Fine Humic Hapludults
2. Fine Typic Paleudults
3. Fine Typic Haplohumults
4. Fine Loamy Typic Hapludults

Soils of Mizoram

Mizoram is a state in northeastern India. It is bordered by Assam to the north, Manipur to the east, Tripura to the south, and Bangladesh to the west. The state has a total area of 22,086 square kilometers (8,524 sq mi).

The soils of Mizoram are classified as Inceptisols, Alfisols, and Ultisols. Inceptisols are young soils that are still developing. They are typically found in areas with a high rainfall and a short growing season. Alfisols are more mature soils that have developed under a forest cover. They are typically found in areas with a moderate rainfall and a long growing season. Ultisols are the most mature soils in Mizoram. They have developed under a tropical climate with a high rainfall and a long growing season.

The soils of Mizoram are characterized by their high organic matter content. This organic matter helps to improve the soil’s fertility and water retention capacity. The soils are also rich in nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

The soils of Mizoram are used for a variety of purposes, including agriculture, Forestry, and grazing. Agriculture is the most important use of the land in Mizoram. The main crops grown are rice, maize, and jute. Forestry is also an important Industry in Mizoram. The state has a large forest cover, which provides timber and other forest products. Grazing is also an important use of the land in Mizoram. The state has a large number of Livestock, which graze on the grasslands.

The soils of Mizoram are facing a number of challenges, including soil erosion, soil degradation, and Soil Pollution. Soil erosion is the removal of soil from the land by wind or water. Soil degradation is the loss of Soil fertility and productivity. Soil pollution is the contamination of soil by chemicals or other pollutants.

Soil erosion is a major problem in Mizoram. The state is located in a mountainous region, and the steep slopes are prone to erosion. Soil erosion is caused by a number of factors, including deforestation, overgrazing, and cultivation on steep slopes. Soil erosion can lead to a loss of topsoil, which is the most fertile layer of soil. It can also lead to a loss of nutrients and organic matter. Soil erosion can also damage Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE, such as roads and bridges.

Soil degradation is another major problem in Mizoram. Soil degradation is caused by a number of factors, including deforestation, overgrazing, and cultivation on marginal lands. Soil degradation can lead to a loss of soil fertility, productivity, and structure. It can also lead to a loss of Biodiversity-2/”>Biodiversity. Soil degradation can also make the land more susceptible to erosion.

Soil pollution is a relatively new problem in Mizoram. However, it is a growing problem, as the state is becoming more industrialized. Soil pollution is caused by a number of factors, including the improper disposal of industrial waste, the use of pesticides and Fertilizers, and the mining of Minerals. Soil pollution can lead to a loss of soil fertility, productivity, and structure. It can also lead to a loss of biodiversity. Soil pollution can also make the land more susceptible to erosion.

The government of Mizoram is taking a number of measures to address the challenges facing the soils of the state. These measures include:

Afforestation: The government is planting trees on deforested areas to prevent soil erosion.
Soil conservation: The government is implementing a number of soil conservation measures, such as terracing, contour bunding, and gully control.
Soil remediation: The government is undertaking a number of soil remediation projects to clean up polluted soils.
Soil monitoring: The government is monitoring the condition of the soils in Mizoram to identify and address any problems early on.

The government of Mizoram is also working with the people of the state to raise awareness about the importance of soil conservation and management. The government is providing training and Education on soil conservation and management practices. The government is also working with farmers to develop sustainable agricultural practices.

The soils of Mizoram are a valuable resource. The government of Mizoram is taking a number of measures to protect and conserve these Resources. The government is also working with the people of the state to raise awareness about the importance of soil conservation and management.

Q1. What are the different types of soils found in Mizoram?

A1. The different types of soils found in Mizoram are:

Red laterite soil: This type of soil is found in the hills and is characterized by its reddish color and high acidity. It is not very fertile, but it is good for growing crops such as rice and maize.
Alluvial soil: This type of soil is found in the valleys and is characterized by its high fertility. It is good for growing a variety of crops, including rice, maize, sugarcane, and vegetables.
Sandy soil: This type of soil is found in the coastal areas and is characterized by its low fertility. It is good for growing crops such as coconut, cashew, and banana.
Peaty soil: This type of soil is found in the swamps and is characterized by its high organic content. It is good for growing crops such as rice, jute, and sugarcane.

Q2. What are the factors that affect the type of soil found in Mizoram?

A2. The factors that affect the type of soil found in Mizoram are:

Climate: The climate of Mizoram is tropical, with a hot and humid summer and a cool and dry winter. This climate is ideal for the growth of red laterite soil.
Vegetation: The vegetation of Mizoram is mostly tropical rainforest. This vegetation helps to protect the soil from erosion and provides nutrients to the soil.
Topography: The topography of Mizoram is hilly, with an average elevation of 1,000 meters. This topography helps to create a variety of Soil Types, each with its own unique characteristics.
Parent material: The parent material of the soil in Mizoram is mostly granite and gneiss. These rocks are rich in minerals, which help to make the soil fertile.

Q3. How is the soil in Mizoram being used?

A3. The soil in Mizoram is being used for a variety of purposes, including:

Agriculture: The soil in Mizoram is used to grow a variety of crops, including rice, maize, sugarcane, vegetables, and fruits.
Forestry: The soil in Mizoram is also used for forestry. The forests of Mizoram are home to a variety of trees, including bamboo, teak, and pine.
Mining: The soil in Mizoram is also used for mining. The minerals found in the soil of Mizoram include coal, limestone, and iron Ore.
Tourism: The soil in Mizoram is also used for tourism. The hills and valleys of Mizoram are a popular destination for tourists.

Q4. What are the challenges facing the soil in Mizoram?

A4. The challenges facing the soil in Mizoram are:

Soil erosion: The soil in Mizoram is prone to erosion, which is caused by deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable agricultural practices.
Soil degradation: The soil in Mizoram is also prone to degradation, which is caused by the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Soil pollution: The soil in Mizoram is also polluted by industrial waste and sewage.
Climate Change: Climate change is also affecting the soil in Mizoram, as it is causing the soil to become drier and more acidic.

Q5. What are the solutions to the challenges facing the soil in Mizoram?

A5. The solutions to the challenges facing the soil in Mizoram are:

Afforestation: Afforestation is the process of planting trees. Trees help to protect the soil from erosion and provide nutrients to the soil.
Soil conservation: Soil conservation is the process of preventing the loss of soil. Soil conservation can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as terracing, contour farming, and mulching.
Sustainable Agriculture: Sustainable agriculture is the practice of farming in a way that does not damage the Environment. Sustainable agriculture can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as using organic fertilizers and pesticides, and rotating crops.
Pollution control: Pollution control is the process of preventing the release of pollutants into the environment. Pollution control can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as using filters and scrubbers, and recycling.
Climate change adaptation: Climate change adaptation is the process of adjusting to the effects of climate change. Climate change adaptation can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as planting drought-tolerant crops, and building seawalls to protect coastal areas.

The soil of Mizoram is mainly composed of:
(a) Alluvial soil
(b) Red soil
(c) Laterite soil
(d) Peaty soil
The main crops grown in Mizoram are:
(a) Rice
(b) Tea
(c) Jute
(d) Cotton
The main forest trees found in Mizoram are:
(a) Sal
(b) Teak
(c) Bamboo
(d) Oak
The main rivers of Mizoram are:
(a) Barak
(b) Tlawng
(c) Tuirial
(d) Chhimtuipui
The main towns of Mizoram are:
(a) Aizawl
(b) Lunglei
(c) Champhai
(d) Serchhip
The main languages spoken in Mizoram are:
(a) Mizo
(b) Hmar
(c) Chakma
(d) Tripuri
The main religion practiced in Mizoram is:
(a) Christianity
(b) Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism
(c) Islam
(d) Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism
The main festivals celebrated in Mizoram are:
(a) Chapchar Kut
(b) Pawl Kut
(c) Mim Kut
(d) Vaisakh
The main tourist attractions in Mizoram are:
(a) The Blue Mountains
(b) The Champhai Wildlife Sanctuary
(c) The Vanapazar Market
(d) The Aizawl Zoological park
The main exports of Mizoram are:
(a) Tea
(b) Bamboo
(c) Timber
(d) Handicrafts