Key Points
Key Points: Causes of Soil Erosion
- High population pressure on land leads to deforestation and overuse of land, which is a major cause of soil erosion in India.
- Nature of rainfall in India—heavy monsoon rains and frequent droughts—causes floods and washing away of fertile topsoil.
- Overgrazing by cattle removes vegetation cover, leaving soil exposed to wind and water erosion, especially in Rajasthan.
- Bad farming practices like lack of terracing, contour ploughing, crop rotation, and improper use of manure increase soil erosion.
- Steep slopes and deforestation in hilly regions such as the Shiwaliks, Himalayas, and parts of South India make these areas highly prone to soil erosion.
Key Points: Soil Conservation
- Soil conservation means protecting soil from erosion and maintaining its fertility.
- Soil erosion causes loss of fertile topsoil, leading to reduced agricultural productivity.
- Soil conservation helps maintain soil moisture and raise the groundwater level.
- It prevents silting of rivers, floods, droughts, and landslides, especially in hilly areas.
- Soil conservation is essential because soil forms very slowly but can be destroyed quickly, and it supports plants, animals, and human life.
