Which Indian soil term is correctly associated with source or location “widespread across the Indo-Gangetic-Brahmaputra plains and coastal deltas”, and also with “it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay”?

Correct Answer: Option B — Alluvial Soil. Alluvial Soil is correctly identified as widespread across the Indo-Gangetic-Brahmaputra plains and coastal deltas. Alluvial Soil is also associated with it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay. Another identifying fact about Alluvial Soil is that it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay. A further exam-relevant fact about Alluvial Soil is that it supports crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane and jute. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option A — Black Soil: Black Soil is extensive over the Deccan Trap region of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. It is incorrect here because Black Soil is instead associated with it develops deep cracks during the dry season. • Option C — Red and Yellow Soil: Red and Yellow Soil is widespread over parts of the eastern and southern Peninsular plateau. It is incorrect here because Red and Yellow Soil is instead associated with it forms largely from weathering of ancient crystalline rocks. • Option D — Laterite Soil: Laterite Soil is found on parts of the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and northeastern hills. It is incorrect here because Laterite Soil is instead associated with it is often rich in iron and aluminium oxides but poor in humus. Exam Takeaway: Connect Alluvial Soil with “widespread across the Indo-Gangetic-Brahmaputra plains and coastal deltas” and “it commonly contains varying proportions of sand, silt and clay” for revision.