Identify six factors contributing to land degradation in India.

The factors responsible for land degradation in India are:

(i) Loss of vegetation occurring due to deforestation.

(ii) Unsustainable fuel, wood and fodder extraction.

(iii) Shifting cultivation.

(iv) Reduction of forest lands.

(v) Forest fires and overgrazing.

(vi) Non-adoption of adequate soil conservation measures

Degradation of the land refers to the gradual but consistent loss of fertility. This is emerging as a serious concern in the context of environmental issues in India. The following are the factors that contribute to land degradation in India :
(i) Soil Erosion: The removal of the upper layer of the soil caused by agents like strong Winds or floods is termed soil erosion. The topmost layer of the soil carries major & essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus & potassium consequently, the loss of this layer deteriorates the quality & productivity of the land.
(ii) Alkalinity & salinity of soil: The salinity & alkalinity is caused by the problem of waterlogging. Waterlogged on the top layer of soil absorbs all the nutrients present in the soil, thereby, reducing its fertility.
(iii) Deforestation: The growing population along with their ever-growing demand leads to the large-scale destruction of forests ever. The reduction of forest coverage leads to soil erosion that in turn causes climate change.
(iv) Shifting cultivation: The practice of shifting cultivation and subsistence farming carried by the small and the marginal farmers result in the replenishment of soil nutrients & hence, its fertility.
(v) Excessive use of Fertilizers: The excessive use
of chemical fertilizers, insecticides & pesticides lowers the quality & fertility of the soil.
(vi) Desertification: The spread of Deserts in arid
and semi-arid areas is referred to as desertification. It occurs due to overgrazing of the animals, This results in the reduction of lush green areas that in turn leads to replenishment of soil