India is rapidly advancing its nano fertilizer initiative, especially nano urea, to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. Fertilizer companies have significantly ramped up production and distribution capacities, while the government has launched a comprehensive promotion campaign targeting farmers across the country.
Nano Urea and Nano DAP Plants Expand Nationwide
As of now, fertilizer companies have established seven Nano Urea plants, with a total production capacity of 27.22 crore bottles (500 ml each) annually. Additionally, three Nano DAP plants have been commissioned, boasting a combined capacity of 7.64 crore bottles per annum.
Since their inception, the cumulative sales have reached:
*10.68 crore bottles of Nano Urea
*2.75 crore bottles of Nano DAP
Fertilizer companies have distributed these products across the country, including in tribal and remote regions.
Future Expansion Underway
PSUs and private fertilizer firms have proposed three more plants to further scale up the availability of nano fertilizers. Once operational, these facilities will add 17 crore bottles (500 ml equivalent) to the annual production capacity.
Multi-Pronged Promotion Strategy by Government
To promote widespread adoption among farmers, the Government of India has undertaken several strategic initiatives:
- Collaboration with States
During the Zonal Conference for Kharif 2024, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) urged state governments to actively promote nano fertilizers using their agricultural extension networks.
- Inclusion in Demonstration Programs
In July 2023, DA&FW advised state governments, UTs, and ICAR institutes to incorporate FCO-approved nano fertilizers into various demonstration schemes such as:
*Cluster Demonstrations
*Block Demonstrations
*Cluster Front Line Demonstrations (CFLDs)
*Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs)
These are implemented under NFSM and NMEO using recommended agronomic practices.
- Awareness and Education Campaigns
Promotion efforts include:
*Field demonstrations
*Kisan Sammelans
*Webinars
*Short films in regional languages
*On-ground awareness camps
- Availability at PMKSKs
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras (PMKSKs) nationwide now stock and sell Nano Urea and Nano DAP.
- Regular Supply Planning
The Department of Fertilizers (DoF) has integrated Nano Urea into the monthly fertilizer supply plans.
Empowering Farmers with Modern Application Tools
Recognizing the importance of ease-of-use, several technological and training initiatives are underway to simplify nano fertilizer application:
*Use of Kisan Drones and battery-operated sprayers is being actively promoted.
*Pilot projects involve training village-level entrepreneurs to offer custom spraying services through local hire models.
National Campaigns Drive Adoption and Field-Level Trials
ICAR and the Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal recently launched a nationwide campaign promoting efficient and balanced fertilizer use, including nano variants.
The DoF, in partnership with fertilizer companies, has initiated:
*A “Maha Abhiyan” for Nano DAP adoption across 15 agro-climatic zones
*A Nano Urea Plus awareness drive in 100 districts, featuring field demonstrations and farmer education sessions.
Conclusion
With strong collaboration between government, PSUs, and private sector fertilizer companies, India is laying the foundation for a nano fertilizer revolution. As reported by pib.gov.in, the focus on expanding production, educating farmers, and enabling efficient application is expected to transform Indian agriculture toward higher productivity and more sustainable nutrient use practices.
