Q. “There is a huge loss of valuable nutrients and fertility in India”. What are the reasons for this?
(A) Soil erosion
(B) Land degradation
(C) Water logging
(D) Air Pollution
Question from Odisha OCS Paper 1 2024
The correct answer is (A) Soil erosion.
Explanation:
The loss of valuable nutrients and fertility in India is primarily caused by soil erosion. Soil erosion occurs when the top layer of fertile soil is removed by natural forces like wind and water or by human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable agricultural practices. This topsoil contains essential nutrients required for plant growth, and its loss directly impacts soil fertility.
While land degradation (option B) is a broader term that includes soil erosion, the specific reason for the loss of nutrients and fertility is soil erosion. Waterlogging (option C) and air pollution (option D) do not directly cause the loss of soil nutrients on a large scale. Hence, the correct answer is (A) Soil erosion.