Which Indian soil term is correctly associated with source or location “found on parts of the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and northeastern hills”, and also with “it is often rich in iron and aluminium oxides but poor in humus”?

Correct Answer: Option B — Laterite Soil. Laterite Soil is correctly identified as found on parts of the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and northeastern hills. Laterite Soil is also associated with it is often rich in iron and aluminium oxides but poor in humus. Another identifying fact about Laterite Soil is that it is often rich in iron and aluminium oxides but poor in humus. A further exam-relevant fact about Laterite Soil is that with manuring it can support tea, coffee, rubber and cashew. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option A — Arid Soil: Arid Soil is prominent in western Rajasthan and adjoining dry regions. It is incorrect here because Arid Soil is instead associated with low humus and moisture are common limitations. • Option C — Forest and Mountain Soil: Forest and Mountain Soil is found across Himalayan and other highland regions. It is incorrect here because Forest and Mountain Soil is instead associated with texture and humus content change markedly with altitude and slope. • Option D — Saline and Alkaline Soil: Saline and Alkaline Soil is occurs in arid tracts, poorly drained plains and some coastal areas. It is incorrect here because Saline and Alkaline Soil is instead associated with reh, usar and kallar are regional names associated with salt-affected land. Exam Takeaway: Connect Laterite Soil with “found on parts of the Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and northeastern hills” and “it is often rich in iron and aluminium oxides but poor in humus” for revision.