Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question tests knowledge of crop tolerance to soil sodicity (high sodium content).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Rice is the most tolerant of soil sodicity among the given crops.
It can withstand alkaline and sodic conditions better than other crops.
Pearl millet (A): Moderately tolerant to drought but not to sodicity.
Cotton (B): Moderately sensitive to sodicity.
Barley (C): Salt-tolerant but not as tolerant to sodicity as rice.
Thus, rice is the most tolerant to soil sodicity.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, rice is the most tolerant of soil sodicity, which corresponds to option (D).
[0.5cm]