From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Soil Erosion, RUSLE Methodology
Mains level: NA
Why in the news?
- Titled “Geospatial modelling and mapping of soil erosion in India,” the report marks the first attempt to classify soil erosion on a pan-India basis.
- The study categorizes soil erosion into six classifications, ranging from “minor” to “catastrophic,” based on the amount of soil eroded per hectare over a year.
Soil Erosion in India
- Soil erosion is the process by which soil is removed or displaced from its original location, often due to the action of wind, water, or human activities.
- It is a natural geological process accelerated by various factors such as deforestation, overgrazing, improper agricultural practices, urbanization, and climate change.
Key trends in India
- Nearly 30% of the country’s landmass is experiencing “minor” soil erosion.
- Critical 3% (approx. 1500 sq km) faces “catastrophic” topsoil loss.
- The Brahmaputra Valley in Assam emerged as the most significant hotspot for soil erosion, with close to 300 square kilometers or 31% of its surface soil lost to “catastrophic” erosion.
- The lower Himalayan region, extending from Kashmir to Uttarakhand and beyond, and Odisha also face severe erosion challenges, posing threats to biodiversity and environmental stability.
Causes of Soil Erosion
- Anthropogenic Causes: Soil erosion in India is primarily caused by human activities including deforestation, overgrazing, improper land use practices, and construction activities.
- Natural Causes: The monsoon season, characterized by heavy rainfall, exacerbates soil erosion, especially in regions with steep slopes and poor vegetation cover.
Impact of Soil Erosion
- Topsoil, essential for agriculture due to its nutrient-rich composition, is crucial for sustaining crop growth.
- Erosion diminishes soil fertility, leading to reduced crop yields and agricultural productivity.
Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) Methodology
A = R * K * LS * C * P Where: A is the estimated average annual soil loss (in tons per acre per year). R is the rainfall factor, representing the erosive power of rainfall. K is the soil erodibility factor, representing the susceptibility of soil to erosion. LS is the slope length and steepness factor, accounting for the effect of slope on erosion. C is the cover management factor, indicating the impact of vegetation cover and land use practices on erosion. P is the conservation practice factor, reflecting the effectiveness of erosion control practices implemented. |
PYQ:[2014] In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following? 1. Terrace cultivation 2. Deforestation 3. Tropical climate’ Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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