*Continuous use of land over a long period of time without taking appropriate measures to conserve and manage it, is called land degradation.*The various causes of land degradation are:Deforestation-cutting down trees.Mining-leaves deep scars and traces of over-burdening.Dumping of industrial effluents.Over grazing.Over irrigation-increases th salts and alkaline deposits in the soil.*The following measures can help to solve the problem of land degradation(i) Afforestation over deforested areas.(ii) Proper management of grazing on permanent pastures.(iii) In areas where, desertification has taken place, growing thorny bushes.(iv) Proper discharge and disposal of industrial effluents after treatment.(v) Planting of shelter belts.(vi) Control on mining activities.

Land degradation refers to the deterioration in the quality of land due to natural or human-induced factors that affect its ability to support life. This degradation can result in soil erosion, desertification, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and decline in soil fertility.

Human activities that have contributed significantly to land degradation include:

1. Deforestation and unsustainable logging practices
2. Overgrazing by livestock
3. Unsustainable agricultural practices like monoculture, excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and tillage
4. Mining activities
5. Urbanization and infrastructure development
6. Industrialization and pollution

Measures to solve the problem of land degradation:

1. Afforestation and reforestation programs to increase the number of trees and improve soil quality
2. Sustainable land-use practices such as crop rotation, mixed cropping, and conservation agriculture
3. Sustainable grazing practices like rotational grazing and controlled stocking rates
4. Implementation of sustainable mining practices and restoration of degraded mining sites
5. Regulating urbanization and infrastructure development to minimize their impact on land
6. Reducing pollution and promoting sustainable industrial practices
7. Promoting conservation of biodiversity and protection of natural habitats

NCERT Solution- Resources and Development:

NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Geography Chapter 1 - Resources and Development explain the concept of land degradation and its causes in detail. It also provides information on various measures that can be taken to mitigate land degradation. The chapter highlights the importance of sustainable development and the need to balance economic development with environmental conservation. Students can refer to this chapter to understand the impact of human activities on the environment and the importance of sustainable development.