Which Indian soil term is correctly associated with classification or identity “a soil containing excessive soluble salts or exchangeable sodium”, and also with “occurs in arid tracts, poorly drained plains and some coastal areas”?

Correct Answer: Option A — Saline and Alkaline Soil. Saline and Alkaline Soil is correctly identified as a soil containing excessive soluble salts or exchangeable sodium. Saline and Alkaline Soil is also associated with occurs in arid tracts, poorly drained plains and some coastal areas. Another identifying fact about Saline and Alkaline Soil is that reh, usar and kallar are regional names associated with salt-affected land. A further exam-relevant fact about Saline and Alkaline Soil is that drainage, leaching and gypsum treatment can aid reclamation where appropriate. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option B — 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 C — 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. • Option D — Bangar: Bangar is the older alluvium of elevated river terraces. It is incorrect here because Bangar is instead associated with located above the active floodplain in many northern plains. Exam Takeaway: Connect Saline and Alkaline Soil with “a soil containing excessive soluble salts or exchangeable sodium” and “occurs in arid tracts, poorly drained plains and some coastal areas” for revision.