Maximum land area has been degraded and converted to wasteland in Indi...
The correct answer is Water Erosion.
- The land which may be classified as a wasteland such as barren hilly terrains, desert lands, ravines, etc. normally cannot be brought under cultivation with the available technology.
- If the land is left uncultivated for more than five years, it would be categorized as a culturable wasteland.
- Major factors are loss of topsoil due to water erosion; land degradation due to acidity; vegetal degradation with water erosion; and gully formation.
Maximum land area has been degraded and converted to wasteland in Indi...
Water erosion
Water erosion is the process by which water wears away the land surface, leading to the degradation and conversion of land into wasteland. In India, water erosion has been a major factor contributing to land degradation and wasteland formation.
Factors contributing to water erosion in India:
- Monsoon rains: The heavy monsoon rains in India often lead to soil erosion as the water flow washes away the topsoil, leaving the land barren and unproductive.
- Deforestation: The removal of trees and vegetation cover exposes the soil to the impact of rainfall, increasing the risk of erosion.
- Improper land management practices: Poor agricultural practices such as overgrazing, improper irrigation, and improper land use planning can also contribute to water erosion.
Impact of water erosion on land degradation:
- Loss of topsoil fertility: Water erosion results in the loss of topsoil, which is rich in essential nutrients for plant growth. This leads to reduced agricultural productivity and land degradation.
- Formation of gullies and rills: Water erosion can create gullies and rills on the land surface, which further accelerates soil erosion and wasteland formation.
- Increased sedimentation in water bodies: The soil eroded by water is carried away into rivers and streams, leading to sedimentation and pollution of water bodies.
Preventive measures:
- Afforestation: Planting trees and vegetation helps in stabilizing the soil, reducing erosion, and improving soil fertility.
- Terracing: Constructing terraces on hilly terrain helps in reducing water flow velocity and erosion.
- Soil conservation practices: Implementing soil conservation techniques such as contour plowing, mulching, and cover cropping can help prevent water erosion and land degradation.
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