Correct Answer: Option C - Both 1 and 2
Bhangar and Khadar are two different types of alluvial soils found in the Indo-Gangetic plains of India:
Khadar (newer alluvium):
These are younger alluvial soils deposited in the floodplains of rivers.
They are replenished annually during floods when rivers deposit fresh silt.
Khadar soils are more fertile due to their regular replenishment with minerals and organic matter.
They are generally found closer to river banks and in active floodplains.
They are lighter in color and more sandy in texture.
Bhangar (older alluvium):
These are older alluvial deposits found in the higher areas away from the floodplains.
They are not replenished annually as they lie beyond the reach of flooding rivers.
Bhangar soils are typically less fertile than Khadar as they have undergone leaching over time.
They often contain calcareous deposits called 'kankar' (nodules of calcium carbonate).
They are usually darker in color and have a higher clay content.