Grouping of soils on the basis of their capability of crop production without deterioration over a long period of time refers to which of the following ?

The correct answer is 'Land capability'

Key Points

• Land capability:
  • Land capability refers to the classification of soil based on its ability to sustain long-term agricultural production without deteriorating in quality.
  • This classification helps in identifying which lands are suitable for various types of crops and which lands should be used for other purposes to prevent soil degradation.
  • The concept of land capability considers factors like soil texture, structure, depth, erosion potential, and water retention capacity.
  • It aids farmers and land managers in making informed decisions to optimize crop yields and maintain soil health over an extended period.

Additional Information

• Agricultural efficiency:
  • Agricultural efficiency refers to the ratio of agricultural output to inputs such as labor, land, and capital.
  • It focuses on maximizing yield and productivity using the least amount of resources.
  • While important, it does not directly address the long-term sustainability of soil health.
• Cropping intensity:
  • Cropping intensity is the number of crops grown on a piece of land during a given year.
  • It measures how intensively land is used for crop production.
  • This term does not consider the soil's capability to sustain crop production over a long period without degradation.
• Crop productivity:
  • Crop productivity is the measure of the output of crops per unit area of land.
  • It focuses on the yield per hectare or acre but does not inherently address soil sustainability or long-term land use.
  • High productivity can sometimes lead to soil depletion if not managed properly.

Important Points

• Understanding land capability helps in planning sustainable agricultural practices and preventing soil erosion and nutrient depletion.
• Proper land capability assessment ensures that land is used according to its potential and limitations, promoting long-term agricultural productivity.
• Integrating land capability with other agricultural practices can lead to better resource management and environmental conservation.