Question

Given below are two statements :
Statement (I) : Alluvial soils are the largest group of soils in India.
Statement (II) : Alluvial soils are rich in nitrogen but deficient in potassium.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

Indian soils across almost all regions are generally deficient in nitrogen and organic carbon.
Knowing this general rule of thumb helps you spot Statement (II) as incorrect, as it falsely claims alluvial soils are rich in nitrogen.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question focuses on the geographic distribution, characteristics, and nutrient status of alluvial soils in India.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze both statements:
Statement (I): "Alluvial soils are the largest group of soils in India."
This statement is correct.
Alluvial soils are deposited by rivers and cover about 40% of India's total land area, primarily in the Indo-Gangetic plains, deltaic regions, and river valleys.
This makes them the largest and most agriculturally important soil group in the country.
Statement (II): "Alluvial soils are rich in nitrogen but deficient in potassium."
This statement is incorrect.
Alluvial soils in India are generally deficient in nitrogen, organic matter, and phosphorus.
However, they are typically rich in potassium (potash) and lime due to the mineral composition of the river sediments from which they are formed.
This means crops grown on alluvial soils require regular nitrogen fertilization but relatively little potassium input.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Statement (I) is correct, but Statement (II) is incorrect.
This corresponds to Option (C).