Which of the following soils is available in South West region of Punjab ?

Correct option is A

The Desert Soil is found in the South West region of Punjab. This region includes the arid and semi-arid areas of Punjab, particularly the districts of Fazilka, Ferozepur, Muktsar Sahib, and Bathinda, where the desert-like conditions prevail. The soil here is grey and reddish in color, poor in organic matter, and has a sandy texture.

Information Booster:

1. Desert Soil: Found in arid regions; grey or reddish in color, with low fertility due to poor organic content. It is common in the southern and southwestern districts of Punjab.
2. Red Soil: Not found in Punjab; it is prevalent in parts of the Deccan Plateau and other regions with low rainfall.
3. Alluvial Soil: Found in central and eastern Punjab, where it is fertile and supports agriculture.
4. Salt Soil: Formed due to mineral dissolution and evaporation, it is also found in certain parts of South West Punjab alongside desert soil.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) Desert Soil: Correct. It is predominant in the South West region of Punjab.
• (b) Red Soil: Incorrect. This soil is mainly found in the Deccan Plateau and not in Punjab.
• (c) Alluvial Soil: Incorrect. Though Punjab is famous for alluvial soil, it is not found in significant quantity in the South West region.
• (d) Salt Soil: Incorrect. Though salt soil exists in the South West Punjab due to salinity issues, it is not as widespread as desert soil.

Key Points:

1. Desert soil is primarily found in regions with low rainfall and high evaporation rates.
2. South West Punjab has a semi-arid climate with sandy soil and low agricultural productivity.
3. The desert soil is deficient in nitrogen and humus, but it can be improved with proper irrigation and organic amendments.
4. High levels of salinity and improper irrigation practices exacerbate soil degradation in the region.
5. Canal seepage and poor drainage often cause secondary salt formation in nearby lands.
6. The South West Punjab districts like Bathinda and Muktsar Sahib face dual soil issues of desertification and salinity.