Test: Resources & Development - 1 - UPSC MCQ

Non-renewable resources are deemed exhaustible because they take millions of years to form and cannot be readily replaced within human timescales. This characteristic underscores the importance of sustainable resource management practices to mitigate the depletion of finite resources and their long-term environmental implications.

Resource planning is essential for sustainable existence to conserve resources for the benefit of future generations. By planning and managing resources effectively, we ensure that they are used wisely and preserved for the needs of future generations. This approach contributes to sustainable development by balancing present needs with the long-term availability of resources.

The first step in resource planning involves mapping and estimating the available resources across different regions. This includes surveying, mapping, and both qualitative and quantitative estimation of the resources present. By understanding and documenting the resources available, planners can make informed decisions about their utilization and development strategies.

Relief features such as mountains, plateaus, and plains significantly influence the distribution of land resources in India by determining land productivity. Different landforms offer varying conditions for agriculture, settlement, and economic activities. For instance, the fertile plains are ideal for agriculture, while mountainous regions may pose challenges for cultivation. Understanding these relief features is essential for effective land use planning and resource allocation.

The plain region, which covers about 43% of the land area in the country, primarily facilitates agricultural activities. This vast expanse of flat land provides essential resources for agricultural development, supporting the country's food production and economy.

Stabilization of sand dunes by growing thorny bushes is a recommended method to control land degradation caused by shifting sand dunes. Thorny bushes help anchor the sand, prevent erosion, and promote the formation of stable dune structures. This technique is particularly useful in arid and semi-arid regions where sand dunes are prevalent and can pose a threat to surrounding ecosystems and human settlements.

Black Soil, also known as black cotton soil, is celebrated for its exceptional moisture retention capacity. This soil type, found in regions like Maharashtra, Saurashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, is ideal for crops like cotton due to its ability to hold moisture well. The clayey nature of black soil contributes to its moisture retention properties, making it a valuable resource for agriculture in specific regions of India.

Lateritic soils are primarily the result of intense leaching caused by heavy rainfall in tropical and subtropical climates with alternating wet and dry seasons. This leaching process removes essential nutrients from the soil, making it less fertile. However, these soils are typically deep due to the weathering of underlying rock.

Human activities such as deforestation and over-grazing can contribute significantly to soil erosion. When trees are removed or grazed excessively, the land loses its protective cover, making it vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. These activities highlight the importance of sustainable land management practices to prevent soil degradation.

Over-irrigation is the main cause of land degradation in Punjab. It leads to waterlogging and salinization of the soil, making the land less productive. In contrast, overgrazing is a significant cause of land degradation in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan.