UPSC Prelims 2013 Q62: Geography – Indian Agriculture & Land Use
Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct?
1. They are generally red in colour.
2. They are rich in nitrogen and potash.
3. They are well - developed in Rajasthan and UP.
4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 2, 3 and 4
- (c) 1 and 4
- (d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (c) 1 and 4
Explanation
Laterite soils of India
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. They are generally red in colour | Correct | Red from iron oxide |
| 2. They are rich in nitrogen and potash | Incorrect | They are poor in nitrogen, potash, lime and humus |
| 3. They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP | Incorrect | They occur in areas of heavy rain: Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and the north-eastern hills |
| 4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils | Correct | So do tea, coffee and rubber, with manure |
How laterite forms:
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Heavy rain and high heat | Cause intense leaching |
| Silica and lime washed away | Iron and aluminium oxides stay behind |
| Result | A hard, brick-like soil |
The word comes from the Latin 'later', meaning brick; it is cut into blocks for building.
Answer: (c) 1 and 4.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. They are not rich in nitrogen and potash, nor found in Rajasthan and UP.
- (b) Incorrect. Statements 2 and 3 are false.
- (c) CORRECT. Laterite soils are red, and suit tapioca and cashew nuts.
- (d) Incorrect. Statements 2 and 3 are both false.
Key point
Laterite: red, leached soil of hot wet areas (Western Ghats, Odisha, north-east); rich in iron and aluminium, poor in nitrogen, potash, lime; cashew, tapioca, tea.
Remember
Laterite: red, leached, good for cashew and tapioca.
Common mistakes
- Thinking a soil of rainy areas must be fertile.
- Placing laterite in dry States.
- Confusing laterite with red soil of the Deccan.
Exam tip
Laterite = leached. Heavy rain washes the nutrients out.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI — India: Physical Environment, Ch 6 (Soils)
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research — Soils of India