Why is the soil of the Gangetic Plain fertile?

The fertility of the Gangetic Plain is primarily due to the rich alluvial soil deposited over time by the Ganges (Ganga) River and its extensive network of tributaries and distributaries.1

This process of deposition creates two main types of alluvium:

• Khadar: This is new alluvium found in the floodplains near present river channels. It is extremely fertile and uniform in texture, making it highly productive for agriculture.23
• Bhangar: This refers to older alluvium found on slightly elevated terraces. While generally fertile, some areas can become less productive due to the presence of alkaline efflorescences known as usar.2

The plain's agricultural productivity is further enhanced by the presence of sandy aquifers that hold vast reserves of groundwater, which provide reliable irrigation for crops. This combination of nutrient-rich sediment deposits and accessible water resources makes the region one of the most agriculturally productive areas in India.24