Land degradation, a pressing environmental issue, is primarily caused by a handful of factors. These include soil pollution, soil erosion, excessive grazing, repeated mineral extraction, and prolonged drought conditions.
Soil pollution can occur due to the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, industrial waste, or even domestic waste. Soil erosion, on the other hand, is often a result of deforestation and poor farming practices. Overgrazing by livestock can lead to a loss of vegetation cover, thereby exposing the soil to erosion. Similarly, the frequent extraction of minerals can disrupt the soil structure and lead to land degradation. Lastly, drought conditions can lead to a loss of soil fertility and increase the risk of desertification.
For more information, you may refer to the following resources:
| Related Links | |
| Understanding Ocean Waves: A Geography Study Guide | Mass Movements: Geography Notes For Competitive Exams |
| National Waterways in India: A Study Guide | GS 1 Questions for UPSC Mains Sorted by Topic |
| Life of an IAS Officer: An Inside Look | Breaking Down the IAS Salary Structure |