Which one of the following soil type is mainly found in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and hilly areas of Orissa and Assam?

The correct answer is Laterite soil. The lateritic soils are particularly found on high flat erosion surfaces in areas of high(> 200cm) and seasonal rainfall. The alternating wet and dry seasons lead to the leaching away of the siliceous matter of the rocks leaving behind the compounds of iron and aluminium. These are zonal soils and rich in Kaolinite clay minerals. Reddish brown in colour due to the presence of iron oxide. These soils are acidic in character due to leaching. These soils are poor in organic matter, nitrogen, phosphate and calcium, while iron oxide and potash are in excess. Application of manures and fertilisers is required for making these soils fertile for cultivation. These soils have mainly developed in the higher areas of the Peninsular plateau. The laterite soils are commonly found in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and the hilly areas of Orissa and Assam. These soils are also suitable for tea and cashew plantations.