Question

The highest area of salt-affected soils in various states of India remains in the following order

• A. Rajasthan \(>\) Gujarat \(>\) Haryana
• B. Gujarat \(>\) Rajastan \(>\) Haryana
• C. Haryana \(>\) Rajastan \(>\) Gujarat
• D. Gujarat \(>\) Punjab \(>\) Rajastan

Hint:

Salt-affected soil area ranking: Gujarat ($2.22\text{ Mha}$) $>$ Uttar Pradesh ($1.37\text{ Mha}$) $>$ Maharashtra $>$ Rajasthan $>$ Haryana.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI, Karnal) maps the extent and geographical distribution of saline and alkali soils across India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to CSSRI national soil salinity database:
- Gujarat: Ranks #1 in total salt-affected soils ($\approx 2.22\text{ million hectares}$), primarily due to extensive coastal saline lands and the Rann of Kutch.
- Rajasthan: Ranks high ($\approx 0.38\text{ million hectares}$) due to inland arid salinity.
- Haryana: Follows with extensive canal-induced waterlogged saline tracts ($\approx 0.23\text{ million hectares}$).
The states follow the decreasing order: Gujarat $>$ Rajasthan $>$ Haryana.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct state order is Gujarat \(>\) Rajasthan \(>\) Haryana, corresponding to option (B).