The correct Answer is A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1
Explanation
This question requires matching specific crops with their optimal soil requirements, which is a fundamental aspect of agricultural geography and crop cultivation. Different crops thrive in particular soil types due to varying needs for nutrients, drainage, and water retention.
Statement-wise Analysis
- A. Bajra - 3. Sandy soils and shallow black soil
- Correct: Bajra (pearl millet) is a hardy crop known for its drought resistance. It grows well in sandy soils, shallow black soils, and even poor, dry, and light soils. This characteristic makes it suitable for arid and semi-arid regions.
- B. Maize - 2. Old alluvial soil
- Correct: Maize (corn) is a versatile crop that can grow in a variety of soils. However, it performs best in well-drained, fertile alluvial soils, including old alluvial soils (Bhangar), which are rich in humus and nitrogen.
- C. Cotton - 4. Black cotton soil of Deccan plateau
- Correct: Cotton is predominantly grown in the black soils (Regur soils) of the Deccan Plateau. These soils are known for their high clay content, which gives them excellent moisture-retentive capacity, crucial for cotton cultivation.
- D. Jute - 1. Well-drained fertile soils in flood plains
- Correct: Jute is a fiber crop that requires hot and humid climates and well-drained, fertile alluvial soils. The flood plains of rivers, where new alluvial soil (Khadar) is deposited annually, are ideal for jute cultivation due to their rich silt and clay content.
Key Takeaway
Specific crops have distinct soil requirements, with factors like soil texture, fertility, and moisture retention being critical for optimal growth.