Context (DTE): Applying nano urea substantially decreased rice and wheat yields compared to conventional nitrogen (N) fertiliser application.
A decline in grain nitrogen content, essential for protein production, was also observed.
What is Nano Urea?
It is essentially urea (nitrogenous fertiliser) in the form of a nanoparticle. it has a desirable particle size of about 20-50 nm and more surface area.
The liquid nano urea produced by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) is an alternative to conventional nitrogen (N) fertiliser.
While conventional urea has an efficiency of about 25 per cent, the efficiency of liquid nano urea is as high as 85-90 per cent.
Advantages
Nano Urea is produced by an energy-efficient, environment-friendly production process.
Increased availability to crop by more than 80%, resulting in higherNutrient Use efficiency.
Helps in reducing the country’s subsidy bill.
Reduces the unbalanced and indiscriminate use of conventional urea, thereby minimising soil, water, and air pollution.
Provides a targeted supply of nutrients to crops as Liquid nano urea is sprayed directly on the leaves (foliar fertilisation)and gets absorbed by the plant.
