1

SAI International School

SESSION - 2022-23
Class-X, Subject- Geography

CH-1- Topic- Resources and Development

Qs Sub – Topic :- Resources, Types of resources Mark

No.
1 Define resources. 1
OR
What do you mean by resources?
OR
How a substance can be called as a Resources
Ans:-Everything available in our environment which can be used to satisfy our needs, provided, it is
technologically accessible, economically feasible and culturally acceptable can be termed as
‘Resource’.
2 What is the result of the man’s interaction between institution nature and technology? 1
Ans:-Man’s interaction with nature or physical environment and technology creates institutions which
accelerate the pace of economic development.
3 Write any two characteristics of resource. 1
Ans:- It is
I. Technologically accessible,
II. Economically feasible and
III. Culturally acceptable.
(any two)
4 Write any two factors on which the development of resource depends. 1
Ans:-Technology and quality of human resource.
5 What is the result of the interaction of human being with nature through technology and 1
institution?
Ans:-It accelerates the economic development.
6 1

What does the above figure indicate in respect to resources and development?
Ans:-Interdependent relationship between nature, technology and institutions
7 Write any three characteristics of resources. 2
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Ans. Resources have utility or in other words, they are very useful for man.
(i)technologically accessible
(ii)economically feasible
iii)culturally acceptable
8 “Resources are a function of human activities”. Elaborate the statement with suitable arguments. 3
Ans:- Resources are a function of human activities: (i) Human beings are essential components of
resources because they transform material available in our environment into resources.
(ii)The utility of resources depends on the stage of cultural development of man and the tools and
technology used by him. (iii) For example river is a natural resource but river become a resource when
its water is used for irrigation or power production.
9 Explain the role of human in resource development. 3
Ans :-
I. Technology
II. Human skill and knowledge
III. Set up the institution.
10 Everything available in our environment which can be used to satisfy our needs, provided, it is 4
technologically accessible, economically feasible and culturally acceptable can be termed as
‘Resource’. The process of transformation of things available in our environment involves an
interactive relationship between nature, technology and institutions. Human beings interact with
nature through technology and create institutions to accelerate their economic development. Do you
think that resources are free gifts of nature as is assumed by many? They are not. Resources are a
function of human activities. Human beings themselves are essential components of resources. They
transform material available in our environment into resources and use them.
Read the text given below and answer the following questions.

10.1. The passage given above relates to which of the following options?

A. Characteristics of resources
B. Uses of resources
C. Types of resources
D. Development of resources

10.2. What is the result of the man’s interaction between institution nature and technology?
A. Social development
B. Economic development
C. Physical development
D. Political development

10.3. Resources are a function of ------------------activities.

A. Combined activity of human and nature
B. Technological
C. Nature’s
D. Human

10.4. Which of the following statement is wrong regarding characteristics of resources

A. technologically accessible
B. resources are the subset of the stock
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C. economically feasible
D. culturally acceptable
11 How have technical and economic development led to more consumption of resources? Explain 5
with suitable example.
Ans: Technical and economic development have led to more consumption of resources on account of
various factors such as:

  Technological development provides sophisticated equipment. As a result, production

increases ultimately leading to consumption of more resources.

  Technological development also leads to economic development. When the economic

condition of a country rises, the needs of people also rise. It again results into more
consumption of resources.

 Economic development provides favourable environment for the development of latest

technologies. It helps to make or convert various materials found around us into resources.
Finally, it results into the consumption of new available resources too.

12 Match the following items given in column A with those in column B. Choose the correct answer from 1
the options given below :

COLUMN A COLUMN B

A. Biotic Resources 1. flora and fauna, fisheries,

livestock
B. Renewable Resources 2. Replenishable resources
C. EEZ 3. International Resources
D. 12 nautical miles (22.2 4. National Resources
km)
13 Though water is a compound of oxygen and hydrogen we don’t have the technology know-how to 1
exploit it to create energy .Show the type of resource water is in this case.
a) Stock b) Potential c) Reserves d) Actual
14 Solar energy and wind energy though available in abundance in Western Rajasthan and Gujarat has 1
not been developed properly .In which category of Resources does it fall.
Ans: Potential
15 River water can be used for generating hydroelectric power but presently, it is being utilized only to 1
a limited extent. It falls in which category of resources?
Ans:-Reserves
16 Materials in the environment which have the potential to satisfy human needs but human beings 1
do not have appropriate technology to access them are called___________.
Ans: Stock
17 India’s territorial water extends up to a distance of ___________. 1
Ans: 12 nautical miles (22.2km)
18. Resources that take long geological time for their formation are called ___________. 1
Ans: Non-Renewable
19 Which of the following statement is correct as regard to international resources? (A)Resources 1
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which are regulated by international institutions. (B)Resources which lie beyond the territorial
waters. (C)Resources which are found along the international frontier. (D)Resources which are not
yet developed.
Ans: Resources which are regulated by international institutions.
20 How the renewable resources further are divided? 1 or 2
Ans: Continuous and Flow resources.
(Continuous resources are those that will virtually always exist. They include solar energy, rainfall,
wind and wave action.
A flow resource does not remain in one location and moves about because of natural actions in the
physical environment. It include running water, solar radiation, and tides)
21 How are the resources classified on the basis of ownership? 2
Ans: Individual, Community owned, National and International
22 Classify resources on the basis of origin. Give examples. 2
Ans: Biotic (flora and fauna)
Abiotic (rock, minerals)
23 Classify resources on the basis of exhaustibility. Write examples. 2
Ans:Renewable- Solar, Wind,
Non-Renewable- Minerals, Fossil Fuels
24 Classify resources on the basis of development. 2
Ans: Potential, Developed, Stock, Reserves
25 What is meant by two types of natural resources? Give one example of each. 2
Ans: Renewable-For ex.- Solar energy , Wind energy and Non-renewable-For ex.- Fossil fuels ,
Minerals.
26 Explain the resources on the basis of origin. 3
Or
Distinguish between biotic and abiotic resources
Or
What are the biotic and abiotic resources? Give two examples for each.
Ans:
BIOTIC RESOURCES
These are obtained from biosphere i.e. living resources.
Some of these resources are renewable
Eg: flora and fauna
ABIOTIC RESOURCES
These are obtained from the non-living resources.
They are non- renewable but some are recycled.
Eg: rocks, minerals, air and water
27 Distinguish between national and international resources by giving three points. 3
Ans: Use the following hints to write the differences.
Hints National Resources International Resources
Definiti All the sources which are under the These resources are owned and regulated by
on control of state or union government international institutions
are known as national resources
Utilisati All the resources within political The oceanic resources beyond 200 Kms of
on boundaries are national resources exclusive economic zone belong to open
because the government has the ocean and no individual can utilize these
power to acquire even private without the concurrence of international
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property. institutions.
Exampl Forests, Natural parks etc. India has got the right to mine manganese
e nodules from the bed of Indian ocean.

28 Distinguish between renewable and non-renewable resources. (any three points of distinction) 3
Renewable
Ans:-Renewable
(i)The resources which can be renewed or reproduced by physical, chemical or mechanical processes
are known as renewable or replenish able resources.
(ii)The renewable resource may further be divided into continuous or flow.
(iii) For example, solar and wind energy, water, forests and wildlife, etc.
Non-renewable resources
(I)These occur over a very long geological time.
(ii)These resources take millions of years in their formation. Some of the resources like metals are
recyclable and some like fossil fuels cannot be recycled and get exhausted with their use.
(iii) Minerals and fossil fuels are examples of such resources.
29 Differentiate between stock resources and reserves. 3
(i)Materials in the environment which have the potential to satisfy human needs but human beings do
not have the appropriate technology to access these, are included among stock.
(ii)For example, water is a compound of two inflammable gases; hydrogen and oxygen, which can be
used as a rich source of energy.
(iii)But we do not have the required technical ‘know-how’ to use them for this purpose. Hence, it can
be considered as stock.

(i)Reserves are the subset of the stock, which can be put into use with the help of existing technical
‘know-how’ but their use has not been started.
(ii)These can be used for meeting future requirements.
(iii)River water can be used for generating hydroelectric power but presently, it is being utilized only
to a limited extent. Thus, the water in the dams, forests etc.is a reserve which can be used in the
future.
30 Distinguish between individual resources and community owned resources. Give any two 3
differences.
Individual resources
(i)These are also owned privately by individuals.
(ii)Many farmers own land which is allotted to them by government against the payment of revenue.
In villages there are people with land ownership but there are many who are landless. Urban people
own plots, houses and other property. Plantation, pasture lands, ponds, water in wells etc.
(iii) Not accessible to all the people living there
Community owned resources.
(i)There are resources which are accessible to all the members of the community. (ii)Village commons
(grazing grounds, burial grounds, village ponds, etc.) public parks, picnic spots, playgrounds in urban
areas.
(iii) Accessible to all the people living there.
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31 Classify resources on the basis of ownership into four categories. Mention the main feature of each. 5
Ans. (i) Individual resources: Owned privately by individual. Example houses pasture etc.
(ii) Community Owned resources: accessible to all the members of the Community. Example:
Playground park etc.
(iii) National resources: within the political boundaries of the country.
Example: Minerals, forests within the county etc.
(iv) International resources: The oceanic resources beyond 200 nautical mile of the Exclusive
Economic Zone belong to international institutions.
32 Potential Resources: Resources which are found in a region, but have not been utilised.For example, 4
the western parts of India particularly Rajasthan and Gujarat have enormous potential for the
development of wind and solar energy, but so far these have not been developed properly.
Developed Resources: Resources which are surveyed and their quality and quantity have been
determined for utilization. The development of resources depends on technology and level of their
feasibility
Stock: Materials in the environment which have the potential to satisfy human needs but human
beings do not have the appropriate technology to access these, are included among stock. For
example, water is a compound of two gases; hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen can be used as a rich
source of energy. But we do not have advanced technical ‘know-how’ to use it for this purpose.
Hence, it can be considered as stock.
Reserves are the subset of the stock, which can be put into use with the help of existing technical
‘know-how’ but their use has not been started. These can be used for meeting future requirements.
River water can be used for generating hydroelectric power but presently, it is being utilized only to a
limited extent. Thus, the water in the dams, forests etc. is a reserve which can be used in the future.

Read the text given below and answer the following questions.

32.1. The passage given above relates to which of the following options?

A. Characteristics of resources
B. Uses of resources
C. Types of resources
D. Development of resources

32.2. Rajasthan and Gujarat have enormous potential for the development of wind and solar
energy, but so far these have not been developed properly.
It falls in --------------------------- category of resources?
A. Potential Resources
B. Developed Resources
C. Stock
D. Reserves

32.3. Though water is a compound of oxygen and hydrogen we don’t have the technology know-
how to exploit it to create energy .Show the type of resource water is in this case.
A. Potential Resources
B. Developed Resources
C. Stock
D. Reserves
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32.4. River water can be used for generating hydroelectric power but presently, it is being utilised
only to a limited extent. It falls in ------------------- category of resources?

A. Potential Resources
B. Developed Resources
C. Stock
D. Reserves
DEVELOPMENT OF RESOURCES

33 What is essential for a sustained quality of life and global peace? 1

Ans: An equitable distribution of resources.

34 Where did the First International Earth Summit held? 1

Ans: In June 1992 in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), the first International Earth Summit.

35 What is the role of humans in resource development? 1

Ans: Human beings are essential components of resources as they transform materials in the
environment into resources and use them.

36 Mention component of sustainable development. 1

Ans: Resource planning is essential for sustainable existence of all forms of life. Sustainable existence
is a component of sustainable development.

37 Write full form of UNCED. 1

Ans: The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED).

38 Which one of the following statements refers to sustainable development? 1

(A)Overall development of various resources

(B) Development should take place without damaging the environment.

(C)Economic development of people.

(D)Development that meets the desires of the members of all communities

39 This report introduced the concept of ‘Sustainable Development’: 1

(A)Brundtland Commission Report

(B)Mandal Commission Report

(C)Simon Commission Report

(D)Brantley Commission Report

40 State the importance of the Rio convention. 1

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0r What is the importance of Rio convention held on 1992?

Ans: Global climatic change and biological diversity.

41 Define sustainable development? 1

Ans:-Sustainable economic development means development should take place without damaging
the environment, and development in the present should not compromise with the needs of the
future generations.
42 Write two objectives of AGENDA 21. 1
Ans:-To combat environmental damage, poverty, disease through global co-operation on common
interests, mutual needs and shared responsibilities. One major objective of the Agenda 21 is that
every local government should draw its own local Agenda 21
(any two)
43 What are the results of using resources indiscriminately by human beings? Mention any two. 2 or 3
0R Highlight any three problems associated with the indiscriminate use of resources by human
beings.
Ans: Human beings used resources indiscriminately and this has led to the following major problems:
- • Depletion of resources for satisfying the greed of few individuals. • Accumulation of resources in
few hands, which, in turn, divided the society into two segments i.e. haves and have nots or rich and
poor. • Indiscriminate exploitation of resources has led to global ecological crises such as, global
warming, ozone layer depletion, environmental pollution and land degradation. (mention any two)
44 What is sustainable development? 2
Ans- Sustainable economic development means ‘development should take place without damaging
the environment, and development in the present should not compromise with the needs of the
future generations.’
45 What was the object of the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, 1992? 2
Or When and why was the Rio-de-Janeiro Earth summit held?
Ans. 1992 Rio-de-Janeiro (Brazil) Earth summit
To achieve sustainable development in order to combat environment damage, poverty and disease it
laid emphasis on global cooperation mutual needs and shared responsibilities.
46 What is Agenda 21? 2
Ans: Agenda 21 is a declaration (non-binding action plan) of the United Nations (United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development, UNCED) with regard to sustainable development. It is
a product of the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992.
47 Which states in India are rich in minerals and coal deposits? 2
Ans: The states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are rich in minerals and coal
deposits.
48 What was the main reason for the colonial countries to exploit resources of countries under their 2
control?
Ans: The main reason for the colonial countries to exploit resources of countries under their control
High level of technological development.
49 Write a short note on Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit, 1992. 3
Ans: In June 1992, more than 100 heads of states met in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, for the first
International Earth Summit.
The Summit addressed urgent problems of environmental protection and socio-economic
development at the global level.
The assembled leaders signed the Declaration on Global Climatic Change and Biological Diversity.
The Rio Convention endorsed the global Forest Principles and adopted Agenda 21 for achieving
Sustainable Development in the 21st century.
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50 Write any three Environmental problems associated with the indiscriminate use of resources by the 3
human beings?
OR
Indiscriminate use of resources has led to numerous ecological problems. Justify the statement with
any three suitable points.
Ans :-(i) Global warming,
(ii) Ozone layer depletion,
(iii) Environmental pollution and
(iv) Land degradation.
(Any three relevant points with explanation)
(Any other relevant points)
51 Why indiscriminate use of resources has led to numerous problems. Write any three suitable 3
points.
Ans:- (i) Depletion of resources for satisfying the greed of few individuals.
(ii)Accumulation of resources in few hands, which, in turn, divided the society into two segments i.e.
haves and have not or rich and poor.
(iii)Indiscriminate exploitation of resources has led to global ecological crises such as, global warming,
ozone layer depletion, environmental pollution and land degradation.
52 Explain the term sustainable development. Suggest two measures to ensure sustainable 3
development.
Ans:-Sustainable economic development means ‘development should take place without damaging
the environment, and development in the present should not compromise with the needs of the
future generations.’
(i) An equitable distribution of resources has become essential for a sustained quality of life and global
peace.
(ii) Resource planning is essential for sustainable existence of all forms of life.
Sustainable existence is a component of sustainable development.
(Any other relevant points)
53 Resources are vital for human survival as well as for maintaining the quality of life. It was believed 4
that resources are free gifts of nature. As a result, human beings used them indiscriminately and this
has led to the following major problems.
• Depletion of resources for satisfying the greed of a few individuals.
• Accumulation of resources in few hands, which, in turn, divided the society into two segments i.e.
haves and have not or rich and poor.
• Indiscriminate exploitation of resources has led to global ecological crises such as, global warming,
ozone layer depletion, environmental pollution and land degradation.
An equitable distribution of resources has become essential for a sustained quality of life and global
peace. If the present trend of resource depletion by a few individuals and countries continues, the
future of our planet is in danger. Therefore, resource planning is essential for sustainable existence of
all forms of life. Sustainable existence is a component of sustainable development.

Read the text given below and answer the following questions.

53.1. The passage given above relates to which of the following options?

A. Characteristics of resources
B. Uses of resources
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C. Types of resources
D. Development of resources

53.2. Accumulation of resources in few hands leads ----------------------------

A. Depletion of resources
B. Division of society into rich and poor
C. Equitable distribution of resources
D. Political riots

53.3. What is the requirement for sustained quality of life and global peace?
A. Combined activity of human and nature
B. Technological development
C. Sustainable development.
D. An equitable distribution of resources

53.4. ----------------------is a component of sustainable development.

A. Technological accessibility
B. Sustainable existence
C. Economic feasibility
D. Cultural acceptability
54 Why is the issue of sustainability important for development? Explain. 5
Ans: The issue of sustainability is very important for development because development must be in
unison with the future. If natural resources are not sustained, then development will stagnate after a
point of time. Exploiting resources unethically will ultimately undo the development that a country
may have achieved.

55 Explain the consequences of indiscriminate use of resources by human beings. 5

Ans: Human beings used resources indiscriminately and this has led to the following major problems.
• Depletion of resources for satisfying the greed of a few individuals.
• Accumulation of resources in few hands, which, in turn, divided the society into two segments i.e.
haves and have nots or rich and poor.
• Indiscriminate exploitation of resources has led to global ecological crises such as, global warming,
ozone layer depletion, environmental pollution and land degradation.
An equitable distribution of resources has become essential for a sustained quality of life and global
peace.
RESOURCE PLANNING
56 Planning or strategy which is widely accepted for judicious use of resources is called …………. 1
Ans: Planning or strategy which is widely accepted for judicious use of resources called resource
planning.
57 Gandhi Ji consider ……………………………………………………………………….responsible for the depletion of 1
resources at the global level?
Ans: Greedy, selfish people and exploitative nature of modern technology.
58 Which report in 1987 introduced the concept of ‘Sustainable Development’? 1

Ans: The Brundtland Commission Report

59 From which five-year plan has India made concerned efforts for achieving the goals of resource 1
planning.
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Ans- First Five Year Plan

60 What was the main contribution of the Brundtland Commission Report 1987? (A)Sustainable 1
development as means for resource conservation.

(B)Advocated resource conservation for the first time.

(C)Presented Gadhian philosophy.

(D)All of these.

61 What is the importance of Brundtland Commotion report? 1

Ans: The concept of sustainable development.
62 Why is resource planning essential? 1 or 2
Ans:- It is essential to have resource planning because of the following reasons:
It helps to identify the various resources present in different regions of the country.
It helps in the conservation of various non-renewable/extinguishable resources.
It helps in reducing wastage of resources.
63 What is resource planning? Write any three utility of resources. 2 or 3
Ans:- Resource Planning is the widely accepted strategy for judicious use of resources. Utility is what
makes an object or substance a resource. The factors that determine the utility of any natural
resources foremost are 'human beings' because only they have the ability to recognize any substances
as resources, followed by 'time' and 'technology' which transform a substance into a resource.
64 “Resource planning is essential for sustainable existence.” Discuss. 2/3
Ans:- It is essential to have resource planning because of the following reasons:
It helps to identify the various resources present in different regions of the country.
It helps in the conservation of various non-renewable/extinguishable resources.
It helps in reducing wastage of resources.
An equitable distribution of resources has become essential for a sustained quality of life and global
peace. If the present trend of resource depletion by a few individuals and countries continues, the
future of our planet is in danger. Therefore, resource planning is essential for sustainable existence of
all forms of life.

65 How did Gandhi Ji voice his concern about resource conservation? 2

Ans: Gandhiji voiced his concern about resource conservation in these Words: “There is enough far
everybody's need and not for anybody's greed.” He placed the greedy and selfish individuals as the
root cause for resource depletion at the global level.
66 Justify Gandhian Philosophy related to resources with current scenario. 2/3
Ans: There is enough for everybody’s need and not for anybody’s greed.
As per Mahatma Gandhi, “human beings” have to be blamed for the depletion of resources because
of 

1. Overexploitation of resources.
2. Unlimited needs of human beings.

Therefore, conservation of resources is inevitable.

Gandhian idea of trusteeship holds relevance in the current scenario as people live lavish lifestyle and
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destroy the resources recklessly indebting future generations. On ethical and behavioral part
Gandhianism has much significance today because society is witnessing the degradation of values.
67 What was the main contribution of the Brundtland Commission Report, 1987? 2
Ans: The seminal contribution with respect to resource conservation at the global level was made by
the Brundtland Commission Report, 1987.
This report introduced the concept of ‘Sustainable Development’ and advocated it as a means for
resource conservation, which was substantially published in a book, entitled Our Common Future.
Since the Commission's report, the importance of sustainable development has been realized all over
the world.
68 Write the three phases of resource planning in India 3
Ans:-Resource planning is a complex process which involves :
(i) Identification and inventory of resources across the regions of the country. This involves surveying,
mapping and qualitative and quantitative estimation and measurement of the resources.
(ii) Evolving a planning structure endowed with appropriate technology, skill and institutional set up
for implementing resource development plans.
(iii) Matching the resource development plans with overall national development plans.
69 How has the indiscriminate use of resources led to the necessity of resource development or 3/5
resource planning?
Or
Why is it essential to have resource planning? Explain with reasons.

Ans: The indiscriminate use of resources by the human beings has resulted in the following:

o Depletion of resources for satisfying the greed of few individuals.

o Accumulation of resources in few hands which has divided the society into rich
o Birth of ecological crises such as global warming, ozone layer depletion,
environmental pollution and land degradation.

Development of resources or resource development implies not only exploitation but also
preservation and reuse. In case of natural resources, at the time of using them, their nature, type and
the size of their reserve should be considered. These should not be used indiscriminately. If they are
used in this way, the future of our planet will be in danger. Therefore, an equitable distribution of
resources is necessary for a sustained quality of life and global peace. The resources must not be put
to wrong use. This may lead to their depletion. Thus, resource development or planning is necessary.
70 How far it is correct to say that the availability of resources is a necessary condition for the 3/5
development of any region? Explain.
Ans:- The availability of resources is a necessary condition for the development of any region because
it help to full fill the needs of the people to development of the area.
(i) Resources can contribute to development only when they are accompanied by appropriate
technological development and institutional changes.
(ii) There is need for quality of human resources i.e. skilled workers who can convert natural resources
into more use able form.
(iii) There is also a need for capital which is required to develop technology.
71 Explain the relationship between the process of colonization and rich resources of colonies. 3
Ans:- The History of colonization reveals that rich resources in colonies were the main attractions of
the foreign traders. It was primarily the higher level of technological development of colonizing
countries that helped them to exploit resources of other regions and established their supremacy
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over colonies.
72. Explain Agenda 21. 3
Ans:-  a. It is the declaration signed by world leaders in 1992 at the united Nation’s conference on
Environment and Development (UNCED).
b. It focuses on attaining Global Sustainable Development.
c. It’s mainly aim is to fight the environmental damage, poverty, diseases through global cooperation
on common interest, mutual needs and shared responsibilities.
d. An important and distinct aim of the agenda is that every local government should draw its own
local Agenda 21.
73 Elucidate the views of Gandhi ji regarding the conservation of resources. 3
Ans: - Gandhi Ji was very apt in voicing his concern about resource conservation.
(i) He said there is enough for everybody's need and not for anybody's greed.
(ii) He regarded the greedy and selfish individuals and the exploitative nature of
modern technology as the root cause for resource depletion at the global level.
(iii) He was against mass production and wanted to replace it with the production by
the masses.
74 India has rich in certain types of resources but are deficient in some other resources. Justify the 3
statement.
Ans: There are some regions which can be considered self-sufficient in terms of the availability of
resources and there are some regions which have acute shortage of some vital resources.
(i) the states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are rich in minerals and coal deposits.
(ii)Arunachal Pradesh has abundance of water resources but lacks in infrastructural development.
(iii)The state of Rajasthan is very well endowed with solar and wind energy but lacks in water
resources.
(iv)The cold desert of Ladakh is relatively isolated from the rest of the country. It has very rich cultural
heritage but it is deficient in water, infrastructure and some vital minerals.
75 Write four institutional efforts made at global level for ‘resource conservation’. 3/5

Ans:- Following steps have been taken at the international level to conserve world resources:

1) to Create national park s and wildlife sanctuaries

2) reserve some area s as biodiversity zones

3) Many days of the year are there which are declared to create awareness among the individual s e.g.
World Water Day (22 March)

4) also there are various restrictions made to control pollution, reduce e-waste

5. Agenda 21 of UNCED

6.Rio de Janerio Earth Summit

7.World Nature Conservation day (July 28)

76 Why is there need for balanced resource planning at the national, state or regional level? Explain 3
any 3 reasons.
Ans:-(i) There are regions which are rich in certain types of resources but are deficient in some other
 14

resources.
(ii)There are some regions which can be considered self-sufficient in terms of the availability of
resources and there are some regions which have acute shortage of some vital resources
(iii)For example, the states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are rich in minerals and
coal deposits. Arunachal Pradesh has abundance of water
resources but lacks in infrastructural development.
(iv)The state of Rajasthan is very well endowed with solar and wind energy but lacks in water
resources.
(v)The cold desert of Ladakh is relatively isolated from the rest of the country. It has very rich cultural
heritage but it is deficient in water, infrastructure and some vital minerals.
This calls for balanced resource planning at the national, state, regional and local level
77 Explain the importance of conservation of resources. 3
(i) For future generation use.
(ii) Stop irrational consumption
(iii) Stop over-utilisation of resources may lead to socio-economic
and environmental problems.
(Any other relevant points)
78 What do you mean by conservation of resources? Why it is essential? Give any two reasons. 5
Ans:-Conservation of resources means to protect them for future generation use.
(i) they are non-renewable
(ii) they are limited
(iii) Growing population need more resources.
(Any other relevant points)

Or
Planned use of resources in order to meet the present needs and to store a part for the
future generations is called resource conservation. It is necessary because
1) Many resources are non-renewable and exhaustible. If we conserve them we can use
them for a longer period of time.
2) Conservation of resources helps us to reduce wastage. It will help in economic pro
gress.
3) Resource conservation helps us to protect the environment
79 Resources are vital for any developmental activity. But irrational consumption and over-utilisation of 4
resources may lead to socio-economic and environmental problems. To overcome these problems,
resource conservation at various levels is important. This had been the main concern of the leaders
and thinkers in the past. For example, Gandhiji was very apt in voicing his concern about resource
conservation in these words: “There is enough for everybody’s need and not for any body’s greed.”
He placed the greedy and selfish individuals and exploitative nature of modern technology as the root
cause for resource depletion at the global level. He was against mass production and wanted to
replace it with the production by the masses.

Read the text given below and answer the following questions.

79.1. The passage given above relates to which of the following options?

A. Development of resources
B. Land resources
 15

C. Resource planning
D. Conservation of resources

79.2. Gandhi Ji consider ………………………………….responsible for the depletion of resources at the

global level?
A. Advance technology
B. Greedy, selfish people and exploitative nature of modern technology
C. Equitable distribution of resources
D. Mass production

79.3. “There is enough for everybody’s need and not for any body’s greed. “The slogan voiced By
Gandhi ji was concerned about
A. Development of resources
B. Land resources
C. Resource planning
D. Resource conservation

79.4. Gandhi Ji was against mass production and wanted to replace it with the production by the
masses. What was main objective of the statement?

A. Technological development
B. Employment generation
C. Resource planning
D. Environmental protection
LAND RESOURCES
80 Which of the following lands can be categorised under ‘current fallow land’? 1

a) Land used for building houses, roads etc

b) Land which is sown only once in a year
c) Land left without cultivation for one or less than one year
d) Land used for grazing
Ans:- c) Land left without cultivation for one or less than one year
81 What do you mean by fallow lands? 1
Ans:-Fallow lands
(a) Current fallow-(left without cultivation for one or less than one agricultural year),
(b) Other than current fallow-(left uncultivated for the past 1 to 5 agricultural years).
82 What do mean by net sown area? 1
Ans:-Area sown more than once in an agricultural year plus net sown area is known as gross cropped
area.
83 Why is it important to raise the land area under forests? 1
Ans:-(i) Better environment
(ii) Shelter for animals
(iii) Ecological balance
(Any other relevant points)
84 What is the meant by land degradation? 1
Ans. Degrade the value of the land by any natural or human activities called land degradation.
(any relevant definition)
 16

85 Write the significance of the relief occupies 27% of total land area. 1

Ans:- About 27 per cent of the area of the country is the plateau region. It possesses rich reserves of
minerals, fossil fuels and forests
86 What is the gross cropped area? 1
Ans: Area sown more than once in an agricultural year plus net sown area is known as gross cropped
area.
87 When the National Forest Policy was formed in India? 1
Ans: National Forest Policy (1952).
88 3

Compare the diagrams given above and find out the land use category which had the highest
increase during the period 1960-61 to 2014-15 and the category which had the highest decrease
during the period. Give one major reason for the same.
Ans:-The highest increase was in forest cover category and the highest decrease was in barren and
unculturable waste land category:
It is discouraging to note that in spite of massive efforts made by the government to increase forest
cover, the area under other non-agricultural uses is still increasing. It is probably due to deforestation,
overgrazing and natural hazards etc that forest cover is still below the outline which was set in the
National Forest Policy (1952), The decline in barren and waste land can essentially be attributed to the
increase in area under non-agricultural use due to massive urbanization and development of roads,
railways and canals etc.
89 Explain the total degraded land in India. 3
Ans: (i)28 per cent of it belongs to the category of forest degraded area
(ii)56 per cent of it is water eroded area and
(iii)The rest is affected by saline and alkaline deposits.
 17

90 Write the human activities causes land degradation in India. 3

(i)deforestation,
(ii)over grazing,
(iii)mining and quarrying
91 Which are the main causes of land degradation in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh? 3/5
Ans: (i) In states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha deforestation due to
mining have caused severe land degradation.
(ii)In states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra overgrazing is one of the main
reasons for land degradation.
(iii)In the states of Punjab, Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh, over irrigation is responsible for land
degradation due to water logging leading to increase in salinity and alkalinity in the soil.
1.Deforestation Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha
2.Overgrazing Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra
3.Over irrigation Punjab, Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh
92 What are the main advantages of India’s land under a variety of relief features? 3
Or
Describe the relief features of land in India and their importance.
Or
What type of relief covers most of India’s land? Explain.
Ans:-India has land under a variety of relief features, namely; mountains, plateaus, plains and islands.
(i)About 43 per cent of the land area is plain, which provides facilities for agriculture and industry.
(ii)Mountains account for 30 per cent of the total surface area of the country and
ensure perennial flow of some rivers, provide facilities for tourism and ecological aspects.
(iii)About 27 per cent of the area of the country is the plateau region. It possesses rich reserves of
minerals, fossil fuels and forests.
43 % Plain, which provides facilities for agriculture and industry.
30 % Rivers provide facilities for tourism and ecological aspects.
27% Plateau region. It possesses rich reserves of minerals, fossil fuels and
forests.
93 What are the different factors that determine land use? 3
Ans:- The use of land is determined both by physical factors such as topography, climate, soil types as
well as human factors such as population density, technological capability and culture and traditions
etc.
94 Explain any three steps that can be taken to solve the problem of land degradation. 3
Ans:-(i) Afforestation and proper management of grazing can help to some extent.
(ii)Planting of shelter belts of plants, controls on over grazing, stabilization of sand dunes by growing
thorny bushes are some of the methods to check land degradation.
(iii)Proper management of waste lands, control of mining activities, proper discharge and disposal of
industrial effluents and wastes after treatment can reduce land and water degradation in industrial
and suburban areas.
(Any three points with explanation)

95 Suggest some ways to solve the problems of land degradation. 3

Ans:- There are many ways to solve the problems of land degradation:
Afforestation and proper management of grazing can help to some extent.
Planting of shelter belts of plants, control on over grazing,
Stabilization of sand dunes by growing thorny bushes are some of the methods to check land
 18

degradation in arid areas.

Proper management of waste lands, control of mining activities, proper discharge and disposal of
industrial effluents and wastes after treatment can reduce land and water degradation in industrial
and suburban areas.
96 Mining sites are abandoned after excavation work is complete leaving deep scars and traces of over- 4
burdening. In states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha deforestation due to
mining have caused severe land degradation. In states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and
Maharashtra overgrazing is one of the main reasons for land degradation. In the states of Punjab,
Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh, over irrigation is responsible for land degradation due to water
logging leading to increase in salinity and alkalinity in the soil. The mineral processing like grinding of
limestone for cement industry and calcite and soapstone for ceramic industry generate huge quantity
of dust in the atmosphere. It retards the process of infiltration of water into the soil after it settles
down on the land. In recent years, industrial effluents as waste have become a major source of land
and water pollution in many parts of the country.

Read the text given below and answer the following questions.

96.1. The passage given above relates to which of the following options?

A. Land Conservation
B. Land Use Pattern
C. Land Utilisation
D. Land Degradation

96.2. “Deforestation due to mining has caused severe land degradation”. Which of the following
states does not come under this scenario?
A. Jharkhand
B. Karnataka
C. Chhattisgarh
D. Madhya Pradesh

96.3. Which of the following human activity has become one of the main reasons for land
degradation in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and
Maharashtra
A. Mining
B. Over irrigation
C. Over grazing
D. Pollution

96.4. ______________waste have become a major source of land and water pollution in many
parts of the country.

A. Electrical Waste (E-Waste)

B. Industrial
C. Liquid or Solid Household Waste
D. Medical/Clinical Waste.

97 How are land resources used? 5

 19

Ans:Land resources are used for the following purposes:

1. Forests
2. Land not available for cultivation (a) Barren and waste land (b) Land put to non-agricultural uses,
e.g. buildings, roads, factories, etc.
3. Other uncultivated land (excluding fallow land) (a) Permanent pastures and grazing land, (b) Land
under miscellaneous tree crops groves (not included in net sown area), (c) Cultruable waste land (left
uncultivated for more than 5 agricultural years).
4. Fallow lands (a) Current fallow-(left without cultivation for one or less than one agricultural year),
(b) Other than current fallow-(left uncultivated for the past 1 to 5 agricultural years).
5. Net sown area Area sown more than once in an agricultural year plus net sown area is known as
gross cropped area.
98 Explain land use patterns in India and why has the land under forest not increased much since 1960- 5
61?
Ans: Land resources in India are primarily divided into agricultural land, forest land, land meant for
pasture and grazing, and waste land. Waste land includes rocky, arid and desert areas, and land used
for other non-agricultural purposes such as housing, roads and industry. According to the recent data,
about 54% of the total land area is cultivable or fallow, 22.5% is covered by forests, and 3.45% is used
for grazing. The rest is waste land, with traces of miscellaneous cultivation.
The land under forest has not increased since 1960–61 because in the post-independence era
demand for more land to expand agriculture, mainly after Green Revolution, developmental works
and infrastructural facilities, led to clearance of forests areas. Industrialization and urbanization also
decreased the forest area. Thus, land under forest has increased by only about 4% since 1960-61.

99 Distinguish between each of the following: 5

(a) Current fallow and other than current fallow land
(b) Waste-land and culturable waste-land
(c) Net sown area and gross cropped area.
Ans: (a)

Current Fallow Land Other Fallow Land

It is left fallow for a period of one year. It is left fallow for a period of one to five years.
It is done to cultivate permanent crops. It is done to cultivate temporary crops.

(b)
Waste-Land Culturable Waste-Land
The lands coming under this category are the Left uncultivated for more than 5 agricultural
ones which cannot be cultivated with the years
available technology.
Arid and Desert lands, ravines, rocky, barren
hilly terrains will come under this classification.

(C )
 20

SOIL AS A RESOURCES, Soil Erosion and Conservation

100 Label the above diagram of soil profile. 1

101 Which part of India is made of alluvial soil? 1

Ans: The northern plains
102 How are alluvial soils classified on the basis of their age? 1
Ans: According to their age alluvial soils can be classified as old alluvial (Bangar) and new alluvial
(Khadar).
103 What is the other name of black soils? 1
Ans: These soils are also known as regur soils.
Black soil is ideal for growing cotton and is also known as black cotton soil.
104 Where are red and yellow soils found? 1
Ans: Yelllow and red soils are also found in parts of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, southern parts of the middle
Ganga plain and along the piedmont zone of the Western Ghats.
105 State one feature of laterite soils. 1
Ans: The laterite soil develops under tropical and subtropical climate with alternate wet and dry
season. This soil is the result of intense leaching due to heavy rain.
106 Which soil is suitable for production of Cashew Nut and where? 1
Ans: Red laterite soils in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala are more suitable for crops like
cashew nut.
107 Which among the following is not an important factor in the formation of soil: 1
(A)Relief (B)Human (C)Climate (D)Decomposers
108 Identify the soil: 1
a) Found in the eastern coastal plains.
b) Common in piedmont plains (Duars, Chos, Terai)
 21

c) It has higher concentration of Kanker nodules (Banger)

Ans:- Alluvial Soil
109 Identify the soil: 1
a) Develops on crystalline igneous rocks.
b) Found in eastern and southern parts of the Deccan plateau.
c) Looks yellow when hydrated.
Ans: Red Soil
110 Identify the soil: a) Sandy in texture. b) Saline in nature. c) Common salt is obtained. 1
Ans: Arid Soil
111 Identify the soil: a) Loamy and silty in valley regions b) Acidic with low humus. c) Found in areas of 1
rainforests.
Ans: Forest Soil
112 Identify the soil: a) Develops with alternate wet and dry seasons. b) Result of intense leaching. c) 1
Deficient in plant nutrients. d) Prone to erosion and degradation.
Ans: Laterite Soil
113 Identify the soil: a) Made up lava flows. b) Made up of clayey materials. c) Deep cracks helps in the 1
proper aeration of the soil.
Ans: Black Soil
114 In which of the following states is black soil found? (A)Jammu and Kashmir (B)Rajasthan (C)Gujarat 1
(D)Jharkhand
115 Name of three states having black soil and the crop which is mainly grown in it. 1
Ans: This type of soil is typical of the Deccan trap (Basalt) region spread over northwest Deccan
plateau and is made up of lava flows. They cover the plateaus of Maharashtra, Saurashtra, Malwa,
Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and extend in the south east direction along the Godavari and the
Krishna valleys. COTTON
116 In which one of the following states is terrace cultivation practiced? (A) Punjab (B) Plains of Uttar 1
Pradesh (C) Haryana (D) Uttarakhand
117 In which of the following states is black soil not found? (A) Jammu and Kashmir (B) Gujarat (C) 1
Maharastra (D) Chattisgarh
118 Which one of the following terms is used to identify the old and new alluvial respectively? (A) 1
Khadar & Tarai (B) Tarai & Bangar (C) Bangar & Khadar (D) Tarai & Dvars
119 Which one of the following soil is the best for cotton cultivation? (A) Red soil (B) Black soil (C) 1
Laterite soil (D) Alluvial soil
120 Name the most widely spread soil in India. (A)black soil (B)red soil (C)alluvial soil (D)late rite soil 1
121 What soil is the best for cotton cultivation? 1
Ans: Black Soil
122 1

Which of the following option best signifies this figure?

A. Gully Erosion
 22

B. Arid Soil
C. Sheet erosion
D. Laterite Soil
Ans:-
A. Gully Erosion
123 Which type of soil develops due to high temperature and evaporation? 1
Ans:- Arid Soil
124 What is soil erosion? 1
Ans: The denudation of the soil cover and subsequent washing down is described as soil erosion.
125 Name the important renewable natural resources that support living organisms. 1
Ans: Soil
126 Which are two causes for soil erosion? 1
Ans:- Human activities like deforestation, over-grazing, construction and mining etc., while natural
forces like wind, glacier and water lead to soil erosion.
127 What are ravines? 1
Ans:- The running water cuts through the clayey soils and makes deep channels as gullies. The land
becomes unfit for cultivation and is known as bad land. In the Chambal basin such lands are called
ravines.
128 What is the significance of the shelter belts in the desert in western India? 1
Ans:- Planting lines of trees to create shelter also works in a similar way. Rows of such trees are called
shelter belts. These shelter belts have contributed significantly to the stabilization of sand dunes and
in stabilizing the desert in western India.
129 What is the use of contour ploughing? 1
Ans:- Ploughing along the contour lines can decelerate the flow of water down the slopes. This is
called contour ploughing. This restricts soil erosion.
130 What is the use of shelter belts? 1
Ans- Shelterbelts are a specific type of system that help reduce natural hazards including
sandstorms, wind erosion and shifting sand.
131 Where can we find ravines in India? 1
Ans:- The Chambal Basin (MP)
132 What is sheet erosion? 1
Ans:- Sometimes water flows as a sheet over large areas down a slope. In such cases the top
soil is washed away. This is known as sheet erosion.
133 Soil erosion can be restricted by: 1
(A) Ploughing along the contour lines.
(B) Cutting out steps on the slopes making terraces.
(C)Growing strips of grass between the crops.
(D)Stabilizing the desert in western India
Ans: All the above options.
134 Which one of the following is responsible for sheet erosion? (A)Underground water (B)Wind (C) 1
Glacier (D) Water
135 Which one of the following method is used to break up the force of wind? (A) Shelter belt ( B) Strip 1
Cropping (C) Contour ploughing (D) Terrace farming
136 Ravines refers to the(A)Bad land created at Kulu valley (B)Bad land created at Chambal valley 1
(C)Bad land created at Godavari valley (D)Bad land created at Ganga valley
137 What is strip cropping? 1
Ans: Strip cropping is a method of farming which involves cultivating a field partitioned into long,
 23

narrow strips which are alternated in a crop rotation system. It is used when a slope is too steep or
when there is no alternative method of preventing soil erosion.
138 Match the following items given in column A with those in column B. Choose the correct answer from 1
the options given below :

COLUMN A COLUMN B
A. Regur Soils 1. Black Soils
B. Laterite Soil 2. Cashew nut.
C. Kankar layer 3. Arid Soils
D. Duars, Chos and Terai 4. Piedmont plains
139 Name any two factors which are responsible for soil formation. 1
Ans:-Important factors in the formation of soil are
(i)Relief,
(ii)parent rock or bed rock
(iii)Climate, vegetation
(iv) other forms of life(plants and animals)
(v) Time
140 1

Which of the following option best signifies this cartoon?

A. People’s management is essential for ecological restoration.
B. Regeneration of the environment leads to economic well-being.
C. Bureaucrats play an important role in ecological restoration.
D. Community’s views and needs should determine ecological restoration.
Ans:-A. People’s management is essential for ecological restoration.
141 How are alluvial soils formed? How is Bangar different from Khadar? 2
Ans: The entire northern plains are made of alluvial soil. These have been deposited by three
important Himalayan river systems– the Indus, the Ganga and the Brahmaputra.
According to their age alluvial soils can be classified as old alluvial (Bangar) and new alluvial (Khadar).
The bangar soil has higher concentration of kanker nodules than the Khadar. It has more fine particles
and is more fertile than the bangar.
142 How do rocks play an important role in the formation of soil? 2
Ans: They help in the formation of soil through a process called weathering. The type of soil under
your feet is dependent on the bedrock deep below the surface. As the bedrock breaks down, smaller
pieces move to the surface and mix with the existing soil.
 24

143 Write about two types of Alluvial Soil. 2

Ans: According to their age alluvial soils can be classified as old alluvial (Bangar) and new alluvial
(Khadar). The bangar soil has higher concentration of kanker nodules than the Khadar. It has more
fine particles and is more fertile than the bangar.
144 Distinguishbetween Khadar and Bhangar. 2
Or
Write two characteristics each of Khadar and Bangar?
Ans:-

145 Explain the two types of soil erosion. 2

Ans: (i) Gullies cut the clayey soils into deep creeps and the land becomes unfit for cultivation and
popularly known as bad lands. (ii) Sheet erosion washes away top soils over a large areas and
productivity is mostly decreased.
146 Name three states each in which land degradation is caused due to a) Over-irrigation- PUNJAB, 2
Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh b) over-grazing- Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and
Maharashtra c) deforestation due to mining activities- Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh
and Odisha
147 Which region can be identified under badland topography? 2
Ans: The running water cuts through the clayey soils and makes deep channels as gullies. The land
becomes unfit for cultivation and is known as bad land. In the Chambal basin such lands are called
ravines.
148 Explain any three factors responsible for the formation of soil. 3
Or Give the importance of soil. Explain factors responsible for soil formation.
Ans: The soil is a living system. It takes millions of years to form soil upto a few cm in depth. Relief,
parent rock or bed rock, climate, vegetation and other forms of life and time are important factors in
the formation of soil. Various forces of nature such as change in temperature, actions of running
water, wind and glaciers, activities of decomposers etc. contribute to the formation of soil. Chemical
and organic changes which take place in the soil are equally important. Soil also consists of organic
(humus) and inorganic materials.
149 Which type of soil is found in the river deltas of the eastern coast? Give three main features of this 3
type of soil.
Ans: Alluvial soils as a whole are very fertile. Mostly these soils contain adequate proportion of
potash, phosphoric acid and lime which are ideal for the growth of sugarcane, paddy, wheat and
other cereal and pulse crops. Due to its high fertility, regions of alluvial soils are intensively cultivated
and densely populated. Soils in the drier areas are more alkaline and can be productive after proper
treatment and irrigation.
150 Describe features of alluvialsoils. Name the places where these are found in India. 3/5
 25

Ans: Alluvial soils as a whole are very fertile. Mostly these soils contain adequate proportion of
potash, phosphoric acid and lime which are ideal for the growth of sugarcane, paddy, wheat and
other cereal and pulse crops. Due to its high fertility, regions of alluvial soils are intensively cultivated
and densely populated. Soils in the drier areas are more alkaline and can be productive after proper
treatment and irrigation.
This is the most widely spread and important soil. In fact, the entire northern plains are made of
alluvial soil. These have been deposited by three important Himalayan river systems– the Indus, the
Ganga and the Brahmaputra. These soils also extend in Rajasthan and Gujarat through a narrow
corridor. Alluvial soil is also found in the eastern coastal plains particularly in the deltas of the
Mahanadi, the Godavari, the Krishna and the Kaveri rivers.
151 What broad category do the soils of Maharashtra fall in? 3
Or Mention three characteristics of black soil.
Or Describe the features of black soil. Name the places where it is found in India.
Ans: These soils are black in colour and are also known as regur soils. Black soil is ideal for growing
cotton and is also known as black cotton soil. It is believed that climatic condition along with the
parent rock material are the important factors for the formation of black soil. This type of soil is
typical of the Deccan trap (Basalt) region spread over northwest Deccan plateau and is made up of
lava flows. They cover the plateaus of Maharashtra, Saurashtra, Malwa, Madhya Pradesh and
Chhattisgarh and extend in the south east direction along the Godavari and the Krishna valleys.
152 What is regur soil? Write its two features. Mention any two regions where regur soil is found. 3
Ans: Black Soil
Black soil is ideal for growing cotton.
The black soils are made up of extremely fine i.e. clayey material. They are well-known for their
capacity to hold moisture. In addition, they are rich in soil nutrients, such as calcium carbonate,
magnesium, potash and lime.
They cover the plateaus of Maharashtra, Saurashtra, Malwa, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and
extend in the south east direction along the Godavari and the Krishna valleys.

153 What is soil erosion? Write human activities that lead to soil erosion. 3
Or Describe the causes for soil erosion.
Ans:- The denudation of the soil cover and subsequent washing down is described as soil erosion. The
processes of soil formation and erosion, go on simultaneously and generally there is a balance
between the two. Sometimes, this balance is disturbed due to human activities like deforestation,
over-grazing, construction and mining etc., while natural forces like wind, glacier and water lead to
soil erosion.
154 What steps can be taken to control soil erosion in the hilly areas? 3
Ans:- Following steps are taken to control the soil erosion in hilly areas: (i) Contour ploughing: this
refers to ploughing along contour lines. (ii) Terrace farming: construction of steps along the hilly areas
by cutting the rock layers to reduce the flow of rivers. (iii) Plugging of gullies to prevent gully erosion
155 What are the methods of soil conservation for coastal regions? 3
Ans:  Mulching.
 Contour barriers.
 Rock dam.
 Shelter belts
 26

156 Differentiate between sheet erosion and gully erosion. 3

157 Suggest methods to reduce gully erosion. 3

Ans: Preventing gully erosion

 Maintaining remnant vegetation along drainage lines and eliminating grazing from these
areas.
 Increasing water usage by planting deep-rooted perennial pastures, trees, or an appropriate
mixture of both thus maintaining healthy, vigorous levels of vegetation.

158 Why is soil important for human beings? How can you relate soil profile to the rate of soil erosion? 3
Ans: Soil is the most important renewable natural resource. It is the medium of plant growth and
supports different types of living organisms on the earth. The soil is a living system. It takes millions
of years to form soil upto a few cm in depth.
Soil erosion occurs primarily when top soil is left exposed to strong winds, hard rains, and flowing
water. In some cases, human activities, especially farming and land clearing, leave soil vulnerable to
erosion. The vertical cross section of soil (soil profile) is divided into three parts: topsoil (A-horizon),
subsoil (B-horizon), and parent material (C-horizon). Topsoil is generally enriched with organic matter
and has granular aggregates that provide larger soil pores, reduce soil density, and enhance water
infiltration and aeration. When topsoil is eroded, yield suffers due to nutrient loss and damage to soil
physical properties. The loss of topsoil and its impact on yield are more pronounced on soils with
steep slopes.
159 Mention a few methods of Soil Conservation. 3/5
Ans: The three important methods of soil conservation are afforestation, crop rotation, contour
ploughing.

1. Afforestation: One of the best ways to conserve soil is to increase the area under forests.
Undiscriminating trees cutting should be stopped and efforts should be made to plant trees in new
areas. 20 to 25 per cent, as they say, is the minimum area of forest land for the whole country which
is considered healthy for soil and water conservation. Nevertheless, it was raised to 33 per cent in the
second five-year plan; the proportion being 20 per cent for the plains and 60 per cent for hilly and
mountainous regions.

2. Checking Overgrazing: Grazing is very important. But overgrazing of forests and grasslands by
animals, especially by herds and flocks of sheep, goats, should be properly checked. One can earmark
separate grazing grounds. Alternate fodder crops should be grown in larger quantities. 

3. Constructing Dams: One of the scientific methods to check soil erosion. Soil erosion which happens
maximum by river floods can be avoided by constructing dams across the rivers. Water speed can be
checked and it considerably saves soil from erosion.
 27

160 What is soil erosion? Mention agents of erosion and its impact. 5
Ans: Soil erosion is the denudation of the upper layer of soil. It is a form of soil degradation. This
natural process is caused by the dynamic activity of erosive agents, that is, water, ice (glaciers), snow,
air (wind), plants, and animals (including humans).
(Explanation)
161 Explain any five proper farming techniques which can be used for soil conservation. 5

Ans: These practices include: crop rotation, reduced tillage, mulching, and cover cropping and cross-
slope farming. Farmers to increase soil organic matter content, soil structure and rooting depth.

Changing Agricultural Practices: We can save a lot of our valuable soil by bringing about certain
changes in our agricultural practices. Roughly the context is described below:

(i) Crop Rotation: As the name suggests, it is rotating crops. In India, peasants grow a particular crop
in the same field year after year. This practice takes away certain elements from the soil, making it
infertile and exhausted rendering it unsuitable for that crop. 

(ii) Strip Cropping: Parallel to one another, crops may be cultivated in alternate strips. Some strips
may be allowed to lie fallow while in others different crops may be sown e.g., small tree crops, grains,
grass legumes, etc. Numerous yields ripen at diverse times of the year and are harvested at intervals.
This very method gives surety that at no time of the year the entire area is left bare or exposed.

(iii) Contour Ploughing: Technical methods, one can say. Ploughing is done at right angles to the hill
slope, following the natural contours of the hill. It makes the ridges and furrows break the flow of
water down the hill. As gullies are less, this prevents excessive soil loss. It is likely to develop and
reduce run-off so that plants receive more water. 

(iv) Terracing and Contour Bunding: Claims to be one of the oldest methods of soil conservation.
Terracing and contour bunding across the hill slopes are very effective. It is done by cutting hill slope
into a number of terraces having horizontal top and steep slopes on the back and front. 

(vii) Checking Shifting Cultivation: Shifting cultivation method is mainly used by tribal. We can
persuade tribal’s to switch over to settled agriculture by checking shifting cultivation. Arrangements
for tribal resettlement can help to make them understand the new way of cultivation. The new
method involves the provision of agricultural implements, residential accommodation. 
162 Write any two features of red and yellow soil and regions where they found in India? 5
Ans:-
1) This soil is red and brown in color. It has red colour because of high percentage of iron contest.
2) They consist of loose gravel and highly coarse materials.
3) This soil can cultivated with the use of pesticides and fertilizers.
4) They extend northward in the West along with the link konkan coast.
5) Contains soluble salts in small quantities.
6) Deficient in nitrogen, lime, phosphate, magnesia and humus.
163 Define alluvial soil? Write two characteristics each of Khadar and Bangar? 3
Ans. The soil brought by river is known as Alluvium soil
Khadar (New Alluvial)
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i) New Alluvial a new soil

ii) Very fertile soil less Kankar nodules
Bangar (Old Alluvial)
i) Old Alluvial or Old soil
ii) Not so fertile, often contains Kankar nodules.
164 Write any three types of soil available in India. (One feature each). 3
Ans:-Alluvial soil
Black soil
Red and Yellow soil
Laterite soil
Arid soil
Forest soil.
(Explanation of any three soil)
165 Describe any three main characteristics of arid soil of India. 3
Ans:-(i)Arid soils range from red to brown in colour.
(ii)They are generally sandy in texture and saline in nature.
(iii)The soil lacks humus and moisture.
166 Describe any three main characteristics of Black soil of India. 5
(i)The black soils are made up of extremely fine i.e. clayey material.
(ii)They are well-known for their capacity to hold moisture
(iii)they are rich in soil nutrients, such as calcium carbonate, magnesium, potash and lime.
(iv)These soils are generally poor in phosphoric contents.
(v)They develop deep cracks during hot weather, which helps in the proper aeration of the soil.
(vi)These soils are sticky when wet and difficult to work on unless tilled immediately after the first
shower or during the pre-monsoon period.
167 Distinguish between Khadar and Bangar. Name any two states where alluvial soils are found. 5
Ans:-Bangar Soil Khadar Soil
1. It is an old alluvial soil. 1. It is a newer alluvial soil.
2. It is found away from the rivers 2. It is found close to rivers valleys
3. It is less Fertile. 3. It is more Fertile
4.It has high concentration of 4.It has fine particles
kankars nodules and is quite smooth and is coarse
5.It is dark in colour 5.It is light in colour
168 What steps can be taken to control soil erosion in hilly areas? 3
Ans. i) Terracing on hilly area: which reduce the force running water
ii) Buildings Dams on hilly areas which reduce the force running water
iii) Afforestation: planting more and more trees so that they hold soil firmly, to reduce soil erosion
Any other relevant steps.
169 What is soil erosion? Write two human activities that lead to soil erosion. 3
Ans:-Erosion of soil from desirable place to any undesirable place with any reason (natural or human)
called soil erosion.
(i)Deforestation,
(ii) Over-grazing,
(iii)Construction and mining.
170 Suggest any five measures of soil conservation. 5
(I)Ploughing along the contour lines can decelerate the flow of water down the slopes. This is called
contour ploughing.
 29

(II)Steps can be cut out on the slopes making terraces. Terrace cultivation restricts erosion.
(iii)Western and central Himalayas have well developed terrace farming.
Large fields can be divided into strips. Strips of grass are left to grow between the
Crops. This breaks up the force of the wind. This method is known as strip cropping.
(iv)Planting lines of trees to create shelter also works in a similar way. Rows of such trees are called
shelter belts. These shelter belts have contributed significantly to the stabilization of sand dunes and
in stabilizing the desert in western India.
(Any three and any other relevant point)
171 Define 3
(i)Gullies (ii)Bad land (iii) Sheet erosion
Ans:
(i)Gullies: The running water cuts through the clayey soils and makes deep channels as gullies.
(ii)Bad land: The land becomes unfit for cultivation and is known as bad land.
(iii) Sheet erosion: Water flows as a sheet over large areas down a slope. In such cases the top soil is
washed away. This is known as sheet erosion.
172 How is soil formed? Analyze factors which help in the formation of soils. 5
Ans. The formation of soil is a very slow process play a major role. It may take thousands of years to
make one to two centimeters thick stable soil cover.
In the formation of soils, various factors and processes play a major role.
(i) The parent rock is the first factor which provides the basic material for the formation of
soils.
(ii) The second factor is the climate which breaks the parent rock into smaller pieces in so
many wages.
(iii) The third factor is the plant and animal organisms which enter the rocks through many
fissures and holes in the rocks and help in the weathering of the rocks slowly but
continuously.
(iv) The fourth factor is topography or elevation and the relief which in their own way help in
the weathering (or breaking up) of the rocks.
(v) The time factor which plays a mighty role in changing everything not to speak of land
forms alone.
(Any four )

173 Read the text given below and answer the following questions. 4

The denudation of the soil cover and subsequent washing down is described as soil erosion. The
processes of soil formation and erosion go on simultaneously and generally there is a balance
between the two. Sometimes, this balance is disturbed due to human activities like deforestation,
over-grazing, construction and mining etc., while natural forces like wind, glacier and water lead to
soil erosion. The running water cuts through the clayey soils and makes deep channels as gullies. The
land becomes unfit for cultivation and is known as bad land. In the Chambal basin such lands are
called ravines. Sometimes water flows as a sheet over large areas down a slope. In such cases the top
soil is washed away. This is known as sheet erosion. Wind blows loose soil off flat or sloping land
known as wind erosion. Soil erosion is also caused due to defective methods of farming. Ploughing in
a wrong way i.e. up and down the slope form channels for the quick flow of water leading to soil
erosion. Ploughing along the contour lines can decelerate the flow of water down the slopes. This is
called contour ploughing. Steps can be cut out on the slopes making terraces. Terrace cultivation
restricts erosion. Western and central Himalayas have well developed terrace farming. Large fields
can be divided into strips. Strips of grass are left to grow between the crops. This breaks up the force
 30

of the wind. This method is known as strip cropping. Planting lines of trees to create shelter also
works in a similar way. Rows of such trees are called shelter belts. These shelter belts have
contributed significantly to the stabilization of sand dunes and in stabilizing the desert in western
India.
Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option

173.1 The passage given above relates to which of the following options?

A. Soil Formation
B. Soil Erosion and Soil Conservation
C. Types of Soil
D. Importance of Soil

173.2 The running water cuts through the clayey soils and makes deep channels as _______________.

A. Bad land
B. Sheet erosion
C. Gullies
D. Ravines
173.3 Which type of soil conservation best suits to the picture below ?

A. contour ploughing
B. terrace farming
C. strip cropping
D. shelter belts
173.4 Which of the following natural activity does not match with the geographical phenomena
“denudation”?
A. Weathering
B. Erosion
C. Stabilization of sand dunes
D. Deposition.

MAP WORK

174 On the outline map of India locate and label any four of the following with suitable symbols. 6
(i) Forest and mountainous soil
(ii) Alluvial soil
(iii) Red and yellow soil
(iv) Black soil
 31

(v) Laterite soil

(vi) Arid Soil

OR
175 On the map of India show the places where different types of soils are found.
a) Alluvial soils: Entire northern plains, Rajasthan and Gujarat in a narrow corridor, eastern coastal
plains in the deltas of the Mahanadi, the Godavari, the Krishna and the Kaveri rivers.
b) Black soils: Deccan trap (Basalt) region i.e., plateaus of Maharashtra, Saurashtra, Malwa, Madhya
Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh and extend in the southeast direction along the Godavari and the Krishna
valleys.
c) Red and yellow soils: Red soils are found in eastern and southern parts of the Deccan plateau.
Yellow and red soils are found in parts of Orissa, Chhattisgarh, southern parts of the middle Ganga
Plain and along the piedmont zone of the Western Ghats.
d) Laterite soils: Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and the hilly areas of Orissa and
Assam.
e) Arid soils: Western Rajasthan.
f) Forest soils: Areas of Himalayas–the soils on lower parts of the valleys on the river terraces are
fertile.
176 Features are marked by numbers in the given outline map of India. Identify these features with the 3
help of the following information and write their correct names on the lines marked in the map.
1. A major soil type
2. Soil type that is formed where the rainfall is low
3. Soil type found mainly in hill slopes
 32

Ans:- 1. Desert or Arid soil

2. Red and Yellow soil
3. Forest and Mountainous soil