Test: Natural resources - UGC NET MCQ

Grazing animals contribute to deforestation by trampling the forest soil during overgrazing, affecting the porosity of the soil, leading to soil erosion and desertification. This process significantly impacts the previously fertile forest areas. In many regions, overgrazing by livestock has had severe consequences on the ecosystem, altering the landscape and biodiversity.

Clearing land for habitation is a human activity that leads to forest fires. When forests are cleared for human settlement, the process involves cutting down trees and burning them, which can easily ignite and spread, especially in dry conditions. This practice poses a significant risk to forest ecosystems and biodiversity.

Madhya Pradesh stands out as the state with the largest forest cover in India in terms of area. This highlights the substantial contribution of Madhya Pradesh towards the preservation and expansion of forest resources in the country.

The primary objective of Social Forestry, as outlined in the text, is to plant more trees with the aim of enhancing the environment. This initiative involves planting trees not only in forests but also on unused lands, along various locations like railway lines, roadsides, and riverbanks. By planting trees, Social Forestry aims to improve the ecological conditions and promote environmental well-being.

The Bishnoi Movement, which originated in the village of Khejarli in Rajasthan, was sparked by the Maharaja of Jodhpur's directive to collect wood for the construction of a new palace. Amrita Devi, a prominent figure in this movement, led the villagers in hugging the trees to prevent their felling. This act of tree-hugging and the subsequent sacrifice of 363 Bishnoi villagers in defense of the trees ultimately compelled the Maharaja to halt the tree-cutting activities.

Soil resources play a crucial role in supporting agricultural productivity and nutrient cycling. They provide the essential physical base necessary for the growth of crops and plants, ensuring the availability of nutrients and water vital for agricultural systems. Additionally, soils act as a complex buffering system against environmental variations, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of agricultural and forestry practices.

Black soil, also known as Regur soil, is prominent in Maharashtra, India. This type of soil originates from the weathering of volcanic rocks and is characterized by its ability to develop water-retentive cracks when dry. Black soil is known for its fertility and is conducive to the cultivation of crops like cotton, sugarcane, oilseeds, and tobacco. Maharashtra, along with parts of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, has significant expanses of black soil areas.

Saline Soil, characterized by the accumulation of soluble salts, is notably found in regions like Punjab and Haryana. Gypsum is often added to such soils to improve their quality for agriculture. States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra are known to have areas with Saline Soil, where agricultural productivity can be challenging due to the high salt content.

The primary difference between soil erosion and soil degradation lies in their effects on the soil. Soil erosion, involves the physical removal and transport of soil by agents like wind and water. On the other hand, soil degradation refers to a decline in the soil's fertility. In essence, while erosion deals with the movement of soil, degradation relates to the reduction in the soil's ability to support plant growth and sustain ecosystems.

In regions characterized by heavy rainfall and steep slopes, the type of soil erosion that is most significant is run-off erosion. This form of erosion occurs due to the formation of rills and gullies, particularly in areas like the Chambal, Betwa, and Ken river regions. Run-off erosion is a result of the force of water running over the land, carrying away soil particles and contributing to the loss of topsoil in these areas.

Shifting cultivation can contribute to reducing soil erosion by allowing the land to lay fallow. When a plot of land is left fallow, it gives the soil time to recover its nutrients and structure, reducing erosion and maintaining soil fertility. This practice is essential in sustainable agriculture and soil conservation.