Post: TACER - Soil Survey and Soil Conservation

Paper Code: 158/2016

Date of Test: 23rd November 2016

Year Category: 2016

Exam Overview:

The Kerala Public Service Commission (Kerala PSC) conducted the examination for the post of TACER (Technical Assistant for Conservation, Environment, and Resources) in the Soil Survey and Soil Conservation Department. The exam was designed to assess the candidate's knowledge of soil science, agriculture, and soil conservation techniques. The role of TACER involves carrying out soil surveys, soil conservation activities, and supporting agricultural practices related to land use and soil health.

Exam Pattern:

The exam was conducted in a Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) format. The questions focused on soil science, conservation techniques, agriculture practices, and environmental sustainability.

• Total Questions: 100
• Time Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (75 minutes)
• Maximum Marks: 100
• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Syllabus Coverage:

The syllabus for the TACER exam covered a variety of topics related to soil conservation, agricultural practices, and environmental sustainability. Below are the key areas covered in the syllabus:

1. Soil Science and Survey:

• Soil Formation and Composition: Understanding the processes involved in soil formation, the components of soil, and types of soil.
• Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management: Knowledge about soil fertility, the role of various nutrients for plant growth, and methods to enhance soil fertility.
• Soil Classification: Classification systems for soils based on various factors such as texture, structure, and use.
• Soil Survey Techniques: Methods of conducting soil surveys, collecting soil samples, and interpreting soil data for agricultural use.

1. Soil Conservation Techniques:

• Erosion Control: Methods to prevent soil erosion, including terracing, contour plowing, and the use of vegetation.
• Water Conservation Practices: Techniques such as rainwater harvesting and watershed management to conserve water and protect soil.
• Sustainable Land Management: Best practices for sustainable land use, including crop rotation, agroforestry, and organic farming.
• Soil Health and Restoration: Techniques to restore degraded soils, improve soil structure, and increase soil organic matter.

1. Agricultural Practices and Environment:

• Crop Management: Knowledge of crop rotation, irrigation techniques, and pest management in soil conservation.
• Environmental Sustainability: Understanding the impact of soil conservation on the environment, water resources, and biodiversity.
• Climate Change and Soil Conservation: The effects of climate change on soil health and conservation efforts.

1. General Knowledge:

• Environmental Acts and Policies: Awareness of environmental laws, policies, and initiatives in India, including the National Policy for Soil Health Management and other related programs.
• Recent Developments in Agriculture and Conservation: Awareness of current trends in agriculture, sustainability practices, and conservation efforts at the national and international levels.

1. General English and Arithmetic:

• Basic English grammar, sentence structure, and comprehension.
• Arithmetic related to percentages, simple interest, areas, and basic calculations relevant to soil surveys and conservation.

Key Skills Assessed:

• Soil Science Knowledge: In-depth understanding of soil types, soil composition, and fertility management.
• Soil Conservation Practices: Ability to apply conservation techniques to prevent soil erosion, restore soil health, and manage land sustainably.
• Agricultural Knowledge: Awareness of best agricultural practices and their impact on soil and environmental sustainability.
• Environmental Awareness: Knowledge of the relationship between soil conservation, water resources, and overall environmental health.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in communicating technical information related to soil surveys, conservation techniques, and agricultural practices.

Sample Question Topics:

• Soil Science and Survey:
• What is the primary cause of soil erosion?
• Which of the following is an important factor in determining soil fertility?
• Which soil type is most suitable for growing rice?
• What does pH of the soil indicate?
• Soil Conservation Techniques:
• Which of the following is a common method for erosion control in hilly areas?
• What is the purpose of terracing in soil conservation?
• Contour plowing is used for:
• (A) Water conservation
• (B) Erosion control
• (C) Improving soil fertility
• (D) All of the above
• Agricultural Practices:
• The practice of crop rotation helps to:
• Which of the following is a method of water conservation in agricultural fields?
• What is the importance of organic farming in soil conservation?
• General Knowledge:
• Which of the following is a government initiative for promoting soil health in India?
• Who is known as the Father of Indian Soil Science?
• Which international organization primarily works on soil conservation and agriculture?
• General English:
• Choose the correct sentence:
• “The soil ______ rich in nutrients.”
• (A) is
• (B) are
• (C) was
• (D) were
• Find the synonym of the word “conserve”.
• Arithmetic:
• A farm has a rectangular field of 150 meters by 200 meters. What is the area of the field?
• If a soil survey costs Rs. 50 per hectare and 200 hectares need to be surveyed, what will be the total cost?

Preparation Tips for Candidates:

• Study Soil Science Fundamentals: Focus on understanding soil types, soil composition, and methods of maintaining and improving soil health.
• Learn Soil Conservation Techniques: Review methods for preventing soil erosion, conserving water, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices.
• Stay Updated on Environmental Policies: Be aware of government policies on soil health, conservation, and sustainable farming practices.
• Practice General English and Arithmetic: Sharpen your English language skills and practice basic arithmetic related to measurements and calculations used in soil surveys.
• Review Current Agricultural Trends: Familiarize yourself with the latest trends in agriculture, environmental sustainability, and conservation practices.

Download the Question Paper:

You can download the Kerala PSC TACER - Soil Survey and Soil Conservation (Paper Code: 158/2016) question paper from the following link: