Question

Which nutrient is most commonly deficient in Indian soils?

• A. Nitrogen
• B. Phosphorus
• C. Potassium
• D. Calcium

Hint:

Nitrogen deficiency is common because it is highly mobile in soil and easily lost through leaching.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding soil nutrient deficiency.
Soil nutrient deficiency refers to the lack of essential plant nutrients required for normal growth and crop productivity. In Indian agriculture, continuous cropping and intensive farming practices often lead to nutrient depletion.
Step 2: Role of nitrogen in plant growth.
Nitrogen is a primary macronutrient required for the synthesis of proteins, chlorophyll, and enzymes. It plays a major role in vegetative growth and overall crop development.
Step 3: Nitrogen status in Indian soils.
Most Indian soils are low in organic matter, which is the main natural source of nitrogen. Due to high cropping intensity and losses through leaching, volatilization, and denitrification, nitrogen deficiency is widespread.
Step 4: Analyzing the options.
(A) Nitrogen: Correct — Nitrogen is the most commonly deficient nutrient in Indian soils.
(B) Phosphorus: Phosphorus deficiency occurs, but it is less widespread than nitrogen deficiency.
(C) Potassium: Most Indian soils contain adequate potassium reserves.
(D) Calcium: Calcium deficiency is rare in Indian soils.
Step 5: Conclusion.
The nutrient most commonly deficient in Indian soils is nitrogen.