Which Indian soil term is correctly associated with classification or identity “a variable soil group formed under mountain vegetation and relief”, and also with “found across Himalayan and other highland regions”?

Correct Answer: Option A — Forest and Mountain Soil. Forest and Mountain Soil is correctly identified as a variable soil group formed under mountain vegetation and relief. Forest and Mountain Soil is also associated with found across Himalayan and other highland regions. Another identifying fact about Forest and Mountain Soil is that texture and humus content change markedly with altitude and slope. A further exam-relevant fact about Forest and Mountain Soil is that terraced and valley areas may support tea, spices and temperate fruits. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option B — Saline and Alkaline Soil: Saline and Alkaline Soil is a soil containing excessive soluble salts or exchangeable sodium. It is incorrect here because Saline and Alkaline Soil is instead associated with occurs in arid tracts, poorly drained plains and some coastal areas. • Option C — Peaty and Marshy Soil: Peaty and Marshy Soil is an organic-rich soil formed in waterlogged conditions. It is incorrect here because Peaty and Marshy Soil is instead associated with found in parts of Kerala, coastal wetlands and other poorly drained depressions. • Option D — Khadar: Khadar is the newer alluvium of active floodplains. It is incorrect here because Khadar is instead associated with deposited repeatedly along low-lying river floodplains. Exam Takeaway: Connect Forest and Mountain Soil with “a variable soil group formed under mountain vegetation and relief” and “found across Himalayan and other highland regions” for revision.