Definitions [1]
Definition: Soil Erosion
The loss of soil or disturbance of the soil structure is called soil erosion.
Key Points
Key Points: Land Degradation
- Land degradation
Land degradation is the general wearing away and loss of productivity of land due to factors such as salinization, erosion, deforestation, flooding, water-logging and unplanned urbanization. - Importance of top soil
The fertile top soil (15–20 cm thick) contains essential plant nutrients, and its degradation directly reduces agricultural productivity. - Soil salinization
Soil salinization is caused by the accumulation of soluble salts (mainly sodium, calcium and magnesium salts) which adversely affect soil structure and crop yield. - Causes of salinization
Salinization occurs due to inadequate leaching in semi-arid regions, rising and fluctuating groundwater table, rapid evaporation, saline irrigation water, canal seepage and seawater intrusion in coastal areas. - Extent and impact in India
About 7 million hectares of land in India are salt-affected, especially in coastal, arid, semi-arid and Indo-Gangetic regions, posing a serious threat to sustainable agriculture.
Key Points: Soil Erosion
- Soil erosion is the removal of the top fertile layer of soil by water, wind, and human activities.
- Soil erosion by water includes sheet erosion, rill erosion, gully erosion, leaching, sea erosion, and stream-bank erosion.
- Wind erosion occurs in dry and semi-arid regions where loose soil is carried away by strong winds, reducing soil fertility.
- Human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, improper farming, and shifting cultivation greatly increase soil erosion.
- Soil erosion reduces agricultural productivity, leads to land degradation, and creates a cycle of poverty.
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.
Important Questions [8]
- Answer the Following Question. Classify Resources on the Basis of Origin.
- “Resource planning is a complex process.” Justify the statement with arguments.
- Why should the use of cattle cake as fuel be discouraged?
- Why should we use natural resources properly and judiciously? Explain your views.
- How is the issue of sustainability important for development? Explain with examples.
- What may be a goal of landless rural labourers regarding their income?
- Which Type of Soil in India is Most Widespread and Important?
- Which Type of Soil is Most Suitable for Growing the Crop of Cashew Nut?
