Old Alluvial Soil Terminology

The question asks for the specific term used for old alluvial soil. Alluvial soils are formed by the deposition of silt by rivers, typically found in river valleys and floodplains.

Understanding Alluvial Soil Types

Alluvial soils are broadly categorized based on their age and location relative to the river:

• New Alluvial Soil (Khadar): Found in the active floodplain, these soils are younger, more fertile, and receive fresh silt deposits during floods.
• Old Alluvial Soil (Bangar): Located on higher ground beyond the reach of floods, these soils are older, less fertile, and have developed more mature soil profiles. They are also known as Bangar.

Identifying the Correct Term

Based on the definitions:

• Bangar is the term for old alluvial soil.
• Khadar is the term for new alluvial soil.
• Regur refers to black cotton soil, not alluvial soil.
• Arid refers to soil found in dry regions and is not specific to alluvial soil age.

Therefore, the correct term for old alluvial soil is Bangar.

Why Bangar is Correct

The term Bangar specifically denotes the older, elevated regions of the floodplain where alluvial soil has accumulated over a longer period, indicating maturity and less frequent renewal compared to the younger Khadar areas.

Eliminating Other Options

• Option 1 (Regur): This is black soil, known for its clayey texture and moisture retention, found mainly in the Deccan plateau.
• Option 2 (Arid): This describes soils in dry climates, often sandy and low in organic matter.
• Option 3 (Khadar): This is the term for new alluvial soil, found in low-lying floodplains.

Thus, Bangar is the accurate classification for old alluvial soil.