MP Board · Class 10 · Social Science · Geography: Resources and DevelopmentWhat is soil erosion? Describe any three human activities responsible for soil erosion and land degradation in India.

Soil erosion refers to the denudation or removal of the topsoil cover by natural agents like wind, water, and glaciers, as well as human activities. Human activities contribute significantly to land degradation and soil erosion in the following ways:

1. Deforestation: Large-scale clearing of forests for agriculture, urbanization, and industry leaves the topsoil bare and vulnerable to wind and water erosion.
2. Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by livestock in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra removes the protective vegetative cover, leading to severe land degradation.
3. Mining and Quarrying: Mining sites are abandoned after excavation work is complete, leaving deep scars and traces of overburdening. Mineral processing, such as grinding limestone for cement, generates huge quantities of dust that retards water infiltration into the soil.