7. Soils

(1) To the west of Sahyadris, laterite soils are formed from basalt rock.
The region west of the Sahyadris (Konkan) gets very heavy rainfall and has a hot, humid climate. The heavy rain washes away the soluble minerals from the weathered basalt. Iron and aluminium compounds are left behind and give the soil its reddish colour. So laterite soil is formed from basalt here.

(2) Humus content in the soil increases.
Humus content increases when biotic material (such as vegetal litter, plant roots, and animal remains) gets decomposed. Microorganisms and water help decompose these dead remains of organic materials. When this decomposed organic matter mixes with the soil, it forms humus, thereby increasing the humus content and fertility of the soil.

(3) Soil formation process is faster in the equatorial climate.
The equatorial regions experience very high temperatures and heavy rainfall throughout the year. These climatic conditions accelerate the intensity of rock weathering and the fast decomposition of abundant biotic materials. Therefore, the soil formation process is much faster in the equatorial climate compared to regions with low temperatures and low rainfall.

(4) The salinity of the soil increases.
Excessive irrigation draws the underground salts and minerals upwards towards the top layer of the soil. As the water evaporates, the salts are left behind on the surface, making the soil saline and eventually unproductive.

(5) Rice is the staple diet of the people from Konkan.
Food crops are produced according to the type of soils and climate. The Konkan region has heavy rainfall and coastal alluvial/laterite soil, which is highly suitable for cultivating rice. Since the local agricultural produce determines the staple diet of the people, rice is their staple diet.

(6) Soil erosion.
Soil erosion occurs when the top layer of soil gets removed and washed or blown away. This happens mainly due to running water, high-speed winds, harsh climatic conditions, and the steep slope (physiography) of the land.

(7) Soil degradation.
Soil degradation occurs when the quality and fertility of the soil get lowered. This is caused by the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, insecticides, and weedicides. Chemical residues remain in the soil for years, threatening microorganisms, lowering the humus content, and disturbing the natural pH balance of the soil.

(1) Measures of soil conservation.
Soil conservation involves protecting fertile topsoil from being washed or blown away. Key measures include planting trees (afforestation), as their roots hold the soil and control wind velocity. Other methods include constructing embankments, building farm bunds, creating gulley plugs against steep slopes, and digging Continuous Contour Trenches (CCTs) to arrest running water and allow it to percolate.

(2) Organic manures.
Organic manures (like compost and vermicompost) are natural fertilizers produced by the decomposition of plant and animal waste over time. Using them regularly is highly beneficial as they help maintain the soil's pH balance, increase the proportion of humus, and retain long-term soil fertility without causing chemical degradation.

(3) Place where you will get the information about the suitability of a soil for a particular crop.
Information regarding soil suitability for specific crops can be obtained by visiting local soil testing centres or laboratories. Additionally, guidance is provided by the Department of Agriculture, agricultural universities, and government farming research institutes.

(4) Importance of soils for plant growth.
Soil is an indispensable resource and a complete ecosystem for plants. It provides essential physical support for roots and supplies the vital nutrients, micronutrients, and water required for plant growth. Even with abundant sunlight and water, rich vegetation can only thrive in regions that possess fertile soil.