Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).

Assertion (A) : Implementing agroforestry practices helps in soil conservation.
Reason (R) : Agroforestry combines the cultivation of trees and crops on the same land, which reduces soil erosion by providing ground cover and enhancing soil structure through the roots of trees.

In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.

Hint:

Agroforestry practices, such as alley cropping and windbreaks, act as natural barriers that prevent soil erosion and improve nutrient cycling.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Agroforestry is a land-use management system where woody perennials (trees/shrubs) are grown around or among crops. This integration provides ecological and conservation benefits.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Assertion (A) is correct because agroforestry practices significantly protect the soil from degradation and improve its health.
Reason (R) is correct because the combination of deep-rooting trees and surface crops creates a physical barrier against water and wind erosion.
Tree canopies reduce the impact energy of raindrops, and fallen leaves provide a protective organic mulch layer.
Additionally, the extensive root systems of trees bind soil particles together, improving soil aggregation and porosity.
Therefore, (R) directly explains how agroforestry achieves soil conservation.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).