Question:medium

Which nutrient is most commonly deficient in Indian soils?

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Nitrogen deficiency is common because it is highly mobile in soil and easily lost through leaching.
Updated On: Feb 16, 2026
  • Nitrogen
  • Phosphorus
  • Potassium
  • Calcium
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

To determine which nutrient is most commonly deficient in Indian soils, we need to understand the nutrient requirements of crops and the common deficiencies found in agricultural soils in India.

Soil nutrients are essential for plant growth and development. Among the primary macronutrients, Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) are the most critical. Here is a brief overview of each:

  • Nitrogen (N): Essential for plant growth, as it is a major component of chlorophyll. It plays a significant role in photosynthesis and is a part of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins.
  • Phosphorus (P): Vital for energy transfer and storage, photosynthesis, and transformation of sugars and starches in plants.
  • Potassium (K): Important for enzyme activation, water regulation, and improving plant health and disease resistance.
  • Calcium (Ca): Important for cell wall structure and stability, enzyme activation, and nutrient transport within the plant.

In the context of Indian agriculture, soils are often deficient in Nitrogen. This is primarily due to the rapid uptake of nitrogen by plants and its high solubility in water, which causes it to leach away from the root zone. While other nutrients like Phosphorus and Potassium are also important, Nitrogen is most commonly deficient, leading to its frequent application as a fertilizer in Indian farming practices.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that the most commonly deficient nutrient in Indian soils is Nitrogen.

This deficiency necessitates regular amendments with nitrogenous fertilizers to maintain soil fertility and support plant growth. The excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers in India can lead to contamination of water sources, illustrating the importance of balanced nutrient management.

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