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Types of Soil in India UPSC CSE

Types of Soil in India

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Summary of Types of Soil

The distribution of soils in India is influenced by various factors such as climate, topography, parent material, and human activities. The map of soil distribution in India reflects the country's diverse geographical features and climatic conditions. The Indo-Gangetic plains, with their extensive alluvial soils, form one of the most fertile agricultural regions in the world. The Deccan Plateau is characterized by black soils, while the southern states have predominantly red and laterite soils. Arid and desert soils are found in the western and northwestern regions, while mountain soils are prevalent in the Himalayan and Western Ghats regions.

The fertile alluvial soils are predominantly found in the Indo-Gangetic plains, including regions such as Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand.

Black soil regions, mainly in the Deccan Plateau, support the cultivation of crops like cotton, pulses, and oilseeds due to their moisture retention properties.

Red and yellow soils are rich in iron and potash but typically lack nitrogen, phosphorus, and humus. They support the cultivation of crops like wheat, rice, cotton, sugarcane, millets, pulses, and groundnuts.

Background of Types of Soil

In ancient times, soils were broadly categorized as Urvara (fertile) and Usara (sterile). However, by the 16th century A.D., soil classification evolved to consider intrinsic traits and external attributes like texture, color, slope, and moisture. Soil types were identified based on texture (sandy, clayey, silty, loam) and color (red, yellow, black). This systematic classification facilitated better understanding and management of soils, laying the foundation for modern soil science and agricultural practices.

Introduction of Types of Soil

Soil Formation Factors are categorized into two groups:


Since Independence, numerous scientific surveys of soils have been conducted by various agencies in India. The Soil Survey of India, established in 1956, conducted comprehensive studies of soils in specific regions like the Damodar Valley.In an effort to standardize soil classification internationally, ICAR classified Indian soils based on their nature and characteristics according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Taxonomy as follows :

Another Classification

India's soils are classified into various categories based on their origin, color, composition, and location, including alluvial soils, black soils, red and yellow soils, laterite soils, arid soils, saline soils, peaty soils, and forest soils.

Alluvial soil :


Black Soils (Regur Soils):


Red and Yellow Soils:


Laterite Soils:


Arid and Desert Soils:


Saline and Alkaline soils


Peaty soils


Mountain soil:


Significance of Soils

Soil serves as a vital resource with immense significance in various aspects:

Current Status of Soil Health in India

Soil Health: Causes of Deterioration

Strategies of Soil Health Management

Consequences of Soil Degradation and Erosion

Government efforts

Conclusion of Types of Soil

Soils in India exhibit remarkable diversity in terms of composition, texture, and agricultural suitability. Understanding the characteristics and distribution of soils is essential for sustainable land management, agricultural productivity, and environmental conservation. However, soil degradation poses significant challenges, impacting agricultural yields, water quality, biodiversity, and economic stability. Government initiatives like the Soil Health Card Scheme and afforestation programs aim to address these concerns. By implementing soil conservation and management practices, India can safeguard its soil resources for future generations and ensure the sustainability of its agricultural and natural ecosystems.

Prelims PYQS of Types of Soil in India

With reference to agricultural soils, consider the following statements: (2018)
1. A high content of organic matter in soil drastically reduces its water holding capacity.
2. Soil does not play any role in the sulphur cycle.
3. Irrigation over a period of time can contribute to the salinization of some agricultural lands.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer :(b) 3 only
Which of the following statements regarding laterite soils of India are correct? (2013)
1. They are generally red in colour.
2. They are rich in nitrogen and potash.
3. They are well-developed in Rajasthan and UP.
4. Tapioca and cashew nuts grow well on these soils.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 4
(d) 2 and 3 only

Correct Answer :(c) 1 and 4
The black cotton soil of India has been formed due to the weathering of (2021)
(a) brown forest soil
(b) fissure volcanic rock
(c) granite and schist
(d) shale and limestone

Correct Answer :(b) fissure volcanic rock
Salinization occurs when the irrigation water accumulated in the soil evaporates, leaving behind salts and minerals. What are the effects of salinization on the irrigated land? (2011)
(a) It greatly increases the crop production
(b) It makes some soils impermeable
(c) It raises the water table
(d) It fills the air spaces in the soil with water

Correct Answer :(b) It makes some soils impermeable
Contour bunding is a method of soil conservation used in (2013)
(a) desert margins, liable to strong wind action
(b) low flat plains, close to stream courses, liable to flooding
(c) scrublands, liable to spread of weed growth
(d) None of the above

Correct Answer :(d) None of the above

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