Chapter 1: Resources and Development

Ans: (c) Over irrigation

(ii) In which one of the following states is terrace cultivation practiced? 

(a) Punjab 

(b) Plains of Uttar Pradesh

(c) Haryana

(d) Uttarakhand

Ans:  (d) Uttarakhand

(iii) In which of the following states black soil is predominantly found? 

(a) Uttar Pradesh

(b) Maharashtra 

(c) Rajasthan

(d) Jharkhand

Ans: (b) Maharashtra 

• Ans: Maharashtra: This state is known for its black cotton soil, particularly suitable for growing cotton.

• Madhya Pradesh: Similar to Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh also has black soil regions where cotton is a major crop.

• Andhra Pradesh: Cotton cultivation thrives in Andhra Pradesh's black soil areas. While cotton is prominent, other crops like tobacco can also be grown in this type of soil.

(ii) What type of soil is found in the river deltas of the eastern coast? Give three main features of this type of soil. 

Ans: The type of soil found in the river deltas of the eastern coast of India is alluvial soil. Here are three main features of alluvial soil:

1. High fertility: Alluvial soil is rich in nutrients like potash, phosphoric acid, and lime due to the constant deposition of sediments from rivers. This makes it highly fertile and ideal for agriculture.

2. Light and well-drained: Alluvial soil is generally loose and sandy in texture, allowing for good drainage and aeration. This is beneficial for plant root growth and prevents waterlogging.

3. Varied composition: The exact composition of alluvial soil can vary depending on the source river and the distance from the delta.

(iii) What steps can be taken to control soil erosion in the hilly areas?

Ans: Land Management Practices:

• Contour ploughing and planting

• Cover cropping

• Drainage ditches

• Rotational grazing

• Bioengineering

• Education and Awareness:

• Ans: India's land use reflects a balancing act. Over 50% is dedicated to agriculture, with forests covering about 22% (below the recommended 33%). 

• Urbanization and infrastructure needs are also rising. 

• Limited forest cover increase since the 1960s stems from competing needs for land, encroachment, deforestation, and slow forest regrowth. 

• Sustainable practices like agroforestry and stricter environmental regulations are key to achieving a more balanced and sustainable land use pattern in India.

(ii) How have technical and economic development led to more consumption of resources?

• Ans: Technical and economic advancements have become double-edged swords for resource consumption. 

• Improved technology allows for greater production, requiring more materials. 

• New industries and products constantly emerge, each demanding resources. 

• As economies grow, living standards rise, leading to increased consumption of goods and services. 

• While technology might unlock new resources, it can also accelerate their exploitation. 

• To ensure a sustainable future, we need to find a balance between development and responsible resource management through methods like renewable energy and promoting conservation.