UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 81
Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct?
- They are generally red in colour.
- They are rich in nitrogen and potash.
- They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP.
- Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option: C
Explanation: Laterites are iron-rich red soils formed under intense leaching; they are nutrient-poor and common in humid high-rainfall areas, where cashew and tapioca can grow.
Statement/Pair-wise Analysis:
Statement/Item 1: Correct - Iron oxides usually impart a reddish colour to lateritic soils.
Statement/Item 2: Incorrect - Heavy leaching makes laterites generally deficient in nitrogen and potash.
Statement/Item 3: Incorrect - They develop mainly in warm high-rainfall regions, not especially Rajasthan or Uttar Pradesh.
Statement/Item 4: Correct - Cashew and tapioca are cultivated successfully on appropriately managed laterite soils.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - includes false items 2, 3 and excludes true item 4.
B: Incorrect - includes false items 2, 3 and excludes true item 1.
C: Correct - selects all and only the accurate statements/pairs.
D: Incorrect - includes false items 2, 3 and excludes true items 1, 4.