Red sandy clay loam soils (Chalka soil) are found in the state of:
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"Chalka soils" is the local term used in the Telangana and Andhra Pradesh regions to describe light-textured, crust-forming red sandy loam to sandy clay loam soils developed from granitic parent rocks.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Different regions in India have distinct local names for soils based on their texture, color, origin, and agricultural properties.
"Chalka soils" are a specific group of red soils with distinct physical and chemical properties found in semi-arid regions of southern India. Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the distribution and characteristics of Chalka soils:
- Chalka soils are red, light-textured sandy clay loam soils derived from the weathering of granites and gneisses under semi-arid conditions.
- These soils are shallow to moderately deep, highly permeable, and have a low water-holding capacity.
They are prone to surface crusting after rainfall events, which can restrict seedling emergence.
- They are deficient in organic matter, nitrogen, and available phosphorus, but have moderate potassium levels.
- These soils are widely distributed across the Deccan Plateau, particularly covering large areas in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Dryland crops like castor, red gram, groundnut, sorghum, and pearl millet are commonly cultivated on these soils under rainfed conditions.
Therefore, Chalka soils are found primarily in Andhra Pradesh. Step 2: Final Answer:
Red sandy clay loam soils (Chalka soil) are found in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
