In Indian geography, which state has the largest area classified as wasteland?

Introduction / Context:

This question tests knowledge of land use patterns within India, especially the concept of wasteland. Wasteland refers to land that is degraded, unproductive, or not currently used for agriculture, forestry, or other economic purposes. Identifying which state has the largest area under wasteland is important for understanding regional environmental challenges, desertification, and potential for land reclamation and afforestation programmes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are comparing the total area under wasteland in different Indian states.
• The options include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.
• Wasteland includes areas like deserts, rocky terrain, ravines, and other land that is not productively used.
• We assume standard government classifications of wasteland used in surveys and reports.

Concept / Approach:

The approach is to recall which state has the largest extent of wasteland, not just as a percentage of its own area, but in absolute terms. Rajasthan contains a large part of the Thar Desert and substantial arid and semi arid lands that are classified as wasteland. While other states also have wasteland, the sheer size of Rajasthan and its desert environment means that its wasteland area is significantly larger in total area than that of the other options.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

A cross check can be done by referring to government reports such as wasteland atlases or land use statistics published by agencies like the National Remote Sensing Centre. These reports consistently show that Rajasthan contributes a very large share of India's wasteland due to its arid climate, sand dunes, and sparse rainfall. This supports the conclusion that Rajasthan is the correct choice when we look at the absolute area under wasteland.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:

Students sometimes confuse percentage wasteland with total wasteland area or assume that a mountainous state must automatically have the most wasteland. Others may think of the Rann of Kachchh and pick Gujarat. The key is to consider both state size and the presence of desert, which strongly favours Rajasthan. Remembering that Rajasthan contains a major part of the Thar Desert helps avoid these errors.

Final Answer:

The state with the largest area under wasteland is Rajasthan.