Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

In arid soils of western Rajasthan, the lower horizons contain a Kankar layer — formed due to increasing calcium content downwards. This hard Kankar layer restricts the infiltration (seeping) of water into the lower soil layers. The dry climate and high temperature also cause rapid evaporation, leaving the soil sandy, saline, and low in moisture.

To overcome this limitation, proper irrigation has been introduced in these areas. After adequate irrigation, arid soils become cultivable, as has been done successfully in western Rajasthan.

Source: Resources and Development, Arid Soils

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• The key term examiners look for is Kankar layer and the phrase restricts infiltration — both are directly from the textbook.
• The second part must link to "After proper irrigation these soils become cultivable" — this is the exact solution the textbook mentions.
• Do not drift into general soil conservation; the question is specifically about arid soil + water infiltration problem + its solution.