Test: Soils of Punjab - PPSC PCS (Punjab) MCQ

Bunds: Reduce water runoff (A).
Bench Terracing: Levels sloping land (B).
Drainage Trenches: Remove excess water (C).
Rainwater Harvesting: Captures and stores rainwater (D).

Statement 1: True, alluvial soils cover about 66% of Punjab.
Statement 2: False, Khadar soils are younger and more fertile than Bhangar soils.
Statement 3: True, they are rich in essential nutrients.
Statement 4: True, these soils support crops like rice, wheat, and sugarcane.

Sierozem Soils: Deficient in organic matter (B).
Grey-Brown Podzolic: Found in Shiwalik hills (A).
Kandi Soils: Result of hill erosion (C).
Desert Soils: Sandy texture, alkaline pH (D).

Statement 1: True, water erosion in Shiwalik and Kandi regions is a primary cause.
Statement 2: True, these districts are affected due to seasonal streams called "Chos."
Statement 3: True, factors like steep slopes and deforestation contribute significantly.
Statement 4: False, wind erosion is not the main issue in Punjab.

Alluvial soils dominate Punjab, covering two-thirds of its area.

Statement 1: True, loamy soils cover about 25% of Punjab.
Statement 2: True, they are intensively cultivated for wheat and paddy.
Statement 3: False, loamy soils are found in districts like Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Patiala.
Statement 4: True, excessive irrigation can lead to salinity.

This department focuses on soil and water conservation projects since 1969.

Statement 1: True, the department was established independently in 1969.
Statement 2: True, it is led by the Chief Conservator of Soils.
Statement 3: False, its primary focus is on soil and water conservation, not canal construction.

Seasonal streams, or "Chos," lead to significant water erosion in these regions.

Statement 1: True, their sandy texture makes them well-drained but erosion-prone.
Statement 2: True, crops like cotton and barley thrive in arid conditions.
Statement 3: False, desert soils have low fertility and lack organic matter.