Question

What is meant by land resource? Suggest any four measures for the needed changes in the land use of India. Land resource refers to the total land area available for human activities, including agriculture, forestry, urbanization, and industrial use. The way in which land is used or misused can have significant impacts on the environment and economy. Land resources are finite, and thus proper management is crucial for sustainable development.

Hint:

Proper soil and land resource management ensures sustainable agriculture, prevents land degradation, and promotes environmental conservation.

Answer 1

1. Land Resource Management:
Land resource management involves optimizing the use of land for various activities without degrading its ability to perform its natural functions. Proper management ensures that land can sustain both agricultural and non-agricultural uses. Importance of Land Resource Management:
- Prevents Land Degradation:
Improper use of land can lead to soil erosion, desertification, and loss of fertility. Effective land management prevents these problems. - Supports Sustainable Development:
Proper land use ensures that land is available for future generations, while also supporting the growth of agriculture, industry, and infrastructure.
2. Four Measures for the Needed Changes in Land Use in India:
- Promotion of Sustainable Agricultural Practices:
- India’s agriculture is largely dependent on monsoons, and unsustainable farming practices have led to land degradation in some areas. Measures such as crop rotation, organic farming, and water conservation techniques can help preserve soil fertility and improve agricultural productivity. - Reforestation and Afforestation:
- Increasing the forest cover through reforestation and afforestation initiatives is essential for restoring degraded land. Forests prevent soil erosion, protect water sources, and maintain ecological balance. - Urban Planning and Zoning:
- With rapid urbanization, there has been significant pressure on land resources. Better urban planning can prevent urban sprawl and ensure that agricultural land is not unnecessarily converted into urban areas. Proper zoning policies can ensure that land use in cities is efficient and does not cause environmental harm. - Prevention of Overgrazing and Deforestation:
- Overgrazing and deforestation are major causes of land degradation, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Implementing controlled grazing systems and anti-deforestation laws can help reduce the pressure on land resources and promote sustainable land use practices.
3. Conclusion:
To address the challenges of land use in India, it is essential to balance agricultural, industrial, and urban needs while protecting natural ecosystems. Sustainable land management practices are critical for achieving long-term environmental and economic stability. \newpage