Nano-urea reduced grain yield: study

Nano-urea reduced grain yield: study

Sub : Sci

Sec: Nanotech

Context :- One of the largest and most sustained trials analysing the impact of nano-urea on crop yields has concluded that its continued use could reduce yields of rice and wheat, which together constitute about 70% of India’s annual foodgrains output.

Importance of Urea in Indian Agriculture

• Role in Agriculture: Urea is a crucial nitrogen fertilizer for India’s agricultural economy, supporting the production of key crops like rice and wheat.
• Consumption and Import: India requires approximately 350 lakh tonnes of urea annually, with 40 lakh tonnes imported.
• Subsidized Costs: Farmers buy a 45-kg urea bag at ₹242, while its actual cost is around ₹3,000, due to significant government subsidies.
• Government Expenditure: In 2023-24, the government spent ₹1.3 lakh crore on urea subsidies, highlighting its central role in ensuring affordable fertilizers for farmers.

Nano-Urea

• What is Nano-Urea?: Nano-urea is a technological innovation introduced by IFFCO, consisting of a 500 ml liquid solution with 4% nitrogen (20g N).
• Claims by IFFCO: It is promoted as a substitute for 52 kg N/ha of conventional urea when sprayed on plant leaves during critical flowering stages, with no yield loss.
• Application Method: Unlike conventional urea applied to the soil, nano-urea is sprayed on leaves, aiming to enhance nitrogen absorption by plants.
• Cost and Purpose: A bottle of nano-urea costs ₹260, slightly higher than a 45-kg urea bag, and aims to reduce aggregate urea consumption and the fertilizer import bill.

Recent Findings on Nano-Urea

• Protein and Yield Reduction: Studies by the Punjab Agricultural University revealed a 35% drop in rice protein content, 24% reduction in wheat protein content, and yield losses for both crops.
• Impact on Root Development: Trials indicated a decline in root length, dry weight, and nutrient content, leading to limited nitrogen uptake by plants.
• Soil Dependence: Plants primarily relied on soil nitrogen, as nano-urea failed to deliver adequate nitrogen absorption.
• New Formulations: Alternative nano-urea versions with 8% N and 20% N also failed to increase yields in preliminary trials.