In India, the problem of soil erosion is associated with which of the following?

1. Terrace cultivation — Terrace farming is a soil conservation method used on slopes; it reduces runoff and erosion. Verdict: Incorrect.

2. Deforestation — Removal of vegetation exposes topsoil to wind and water action, increasing erosion. Verdict: Correct.

3. Tropical climate — Tropical regions often have heavy rainfall, but climate itself is not generally listed as the direct cause in this standard framing; the key associated factor here is deforestation. Verdict: Incorrect.

So, only statement 2 is correct. Answer: (b) 2 only.