UPSC CSE Prelims 2006
Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
Assertion (A): The percentage of net sown area in West Bengal is significantly higher than that in Andhra Pradesh. West Bengal benefits from extensive fertile alluvial plains, particularly in the Ganga delta, which support intensive agriculture and result in a net sown area of approximately 60% of its total geographical area. In contrast, Andhra Pradesh features varied terrain, including rocky regions, forests, and areas with less fertile soils, especially in regions like Rayalaseema. Its net sown area typically ranges from 40-45% of its total area. Therefore, Assertion (A) is factually correct.
Reason (R): The statement that the soil of most of Andhra Pradesh is laterite is incorrect. While laterite soils are present in specific hilly tracts, such as parts of the Eastern Ghats, they are not the predominant soil type across the state. The major soil types found in Andhra Pradesh include Black soils (prevalent in the Deccan Plateau region), Red soils (widespread across Rayalaseema and coastal plains), and Alluvial soils (found extensively in the Krishna-Godavari delta). Therefore, Reason (R) is factually incorrect.
Options 1 and 2 are incorrect because Reason (R) is false. Option 4 is incorrect because Assertion (A) is true, not false.