Dip in yield, low protein content: PAU field experiment finds several problems with nano urea
- January 4, 2024
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
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Dip in yield, low protein content: PAU field experiment finds several problems with nano urea
Subject: Environment
Section: Pollution
Context:
- A two-year field experiment by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) studied nano urea’s efficacy compared to conventional nitrogen fertilizers on rice and wheat yields.
Impact of Nano Urea on crops:
- Nano urea led to a substantial decrease in grain nitrogen content and yields for both crops.
- Research showed a 21.6% decline in wheat yield and a 13% decrease in rice yield compared to conventional fertilizers.
- IFFCO launched nano liquid urea claiming it could replace conventional urea, heavily promoted by the central government.
- Nano urea, a foliar spray, exhibited reduced grain nitrogen content, worrying for India’s staple food sources.
- Despite claims of equivalent yield to conventional urea, nano urea’s cost was ten times higher and raised farmers’ cultivation costs.
- Field experiments revealed decreased above-ground and root biomass after nano urea application, affecting nutrient uptake processes.
- Reduction in yield was sequential over two years, suggesting continued nano urea use may further diminish production.
- The study, published in PAU’s journal, emphasizes the need for long-term evaluation; current results discourage nano urea use for rice and wheat.
Source: Down To Earth