With reference to soil conservation, consider the following practices:1. Crop rotation2. Sand fences3. Terracing4. Wind breaksWhich of the above are considered appropriate methods for soil conservation in India?
✓ Correct answer: d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
ExplanationSoil conservation techniques aim to prevent soil erosion, im- prove soil fertility, and maintain ecological balance.Option 1 is correct : Rotating crops helps maintain soil fertili- ty by alternating nutrient-exhausting crops with nitrogen-fixing ones, reducing soil degradation and pest infestations.Legumes are rotated with cereals to fix nitrogen in the soil in states like Punjab and Haryana.Option 2 is correct : Sand fences are barriers made of wood or other materials to trap sand and stabilize soil in areas prone to wind erosion, such as coastal or desert regions.It is practised in arid regions like Rajasthan, where wind erosion is a problem.Option 3 is correct : Terracing involves creating step-like structures on slopes, which slows down water runoff, prevents soil erosion, and conserves moisture, making it highly effective in hilly areas.Option 4 is correct : Wind breaks are rows of trees or shrubs planted to reduce wind speed and protect soil from erosion, especially in open fields.It is commonly used in hilly regions like the Himalayas and Western Ghats.UPSC GS Paper-I
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