Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2022 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
Black Earth soil has been developed in which region of Odisha?
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) Anugul – Athamallik and Boudh
Black Earth soil (also known as Black Cotton soil or Regur soil) in Odisha has been developed primarily in the Anugul-Athamallik and Boudh region.
This soil type is characterized by:
- High clay content – making it sticky when wet and hard when dry
- Dark color – due to high organic matter and iron content
- High water retention capacity – suitable for cotton cultivation
- Cracking nature – develops deep cracks during dry seasons
The Anugul-Athamallik and Boudh region has geological conditions favorable for the formation of black earth soil, particularly due to:
- Presence of basaltic rocks and their weathering products
- Suitable climatic conditions with alternating wet and dry seasons
- Topographical features that allow for proper soil development
The Brahmani Basin, Mayurbhanj, and Sambalpur Valley are more prominently associated with red and laterite soils or alluvial soils rather than black earth soil.
