Understanding Floodplain Deposits

The Northern Plains of India are characterized by extensive alluvial deposits laid down by the rivers. These deposits can be broadly categorized based on their age and location relative to the river's current course.

Identifying Newer Floodplain Deposits

The question asks for the deposits that are newer, younger, annually renewed, and highly fertile. These features specifically describe the floodplain areas adjacent to the river channels.

• Khadar: This term refers to the newer, younger alluvial deposits found in the active floodplains, closer to the river channel. They are flooded almost every year during monsoons.
• Annual Renewal & Fertility: Due to the annual flooding, Khadar areas receive fresh layers of silt, making them extremely fertile and ideal for agriculture.

Differentiating Other Deposits

To confirm Khadar is the correct answer, let's consider the other options:

• Bhangar: Represents older alluvial deposits, located on higher ground away from the river's present course. Bhangar soils are less fertile and lack annual renewal.
• Terai: A moist, swampy, and densely forested region located south of the Bhabar foothills, known for its heavy rainfall and wildlife. It is not primarily characterized by annually renewed agricultural soil deposits.
• Kankar: Refers to calcareous or lime-rich pebbles and concretions found within the older alluvial soils (Bhangar), not a type of deposit itself.

Therefore, Khadar perfectly matches the description of newer, annually renewed, and fertile floodplain deposits.