Consider the following statements: 1. Black soil is considered suitable for growing rain-fed crops 2. Black soil can retain moisture for a prolonged period, aiding crops to survive even in dry seasons With regard to the statements given above which of the following is/are correct?

Black soil, also known as regur or black cotton soil, is highly suitable for rain-fed crops due to its unique physical properties [2]. It is characterized by a high clay content, which gives it an exceptional capacity to retain moisture for prolonged periods [1]. During the rainy season, the soil swells and becomes sticky, effectively trapping water within its structure [1]. As the dry season progresses, the soil develops deep cracks that allow for self-aeration, yet the sub-surface layers maintain residual moisture [1][3]. This moisture retention is critical for crops like cotton and pigeon-pea, which depend on stored water during post-monsoon dry spells to survive and complete their growth cycles [3]. Therefore, the soil's ability to hold water (Statement 2) directly explains why it is considered ideal for rain-fed agriculture (Statement 1), where irrigation is often unavailable [4].

Sources

1. [2] NCERT. (2022). Contemporary India II: Textbook in Geography for Class X (Revised ed.). NCERT. > Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe > Black Soil > p. 9
2. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 6: Soils > 3. Black or Regur Soils > p. 11
3. [3] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Crop Season > p. 40
4. [4] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Black-gram or Urad-bean (Vigna mungo) > p. 30