UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 30
In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?
- Terrace cultivation
- Deforestation
- Tropical climate
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option: B
Explanation: The source key singles out deforestation as the direct, generally avoidable driver of erosion. Terracing reduces runoff; climate alone is not treated as an adequate causal item.
Statement/Pair-wise Analysis:
Statement/Item 1: Incorrect - Terrace cultivation usually checks erosion on slopes by slowing water runoff.
Statement/Item 2: Correct - Deforestation removes roots and protective canopy, exposing soil to erosion.
Statement/Item 3: Incorrect - A tropical climate by itself does not mean erosion: vegetation and land management strongly determine outcomes.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/item 1.
B: Correct - includes all and only the correct items.
C: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/items 1, 3; omits correct statement/item 2.
D: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/items 1, 3.
Review Note: Heavy tropical rainfall can exacerbate erosion, so calling tropical climate categorically unrelated is too broad; explanation follows the supplied key.