Examine the structural and soil characteristics of the midland region of Kerala: Statement I: The laterite soils covering the midland (Idanad) topography are formed under alternating wet and dry tropical conditions, resulting in high concentrations of hydrated iron and aluminium oxides coupled with severe deficiency in nitrogen and phosphoric acid. Statement II: These soils possess high water-retention capacity and high natural fertility, making them ideally suited for intensive paddy cultivation without chemical fertilizer inputs. Which of the following is correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Statement I is correct because laterite soils develop through intense leaching of silica under tropical monsoonal climates, leaving behind iron and aluminum oxides while remaining deficient in key nutrients like nitrogen, potash, and phosphoric acid. Statement II is incorrect because laterite soils generally have poor natural fertility, low water-retention capacity in upper horizons, and high acidity, requiring heavy organic manure and fertilizers for successful cultivation. They support plantation crops like rubber and cashew rather than natural high-fertility paddy farming.