The Government of India is pushing nano DAP as a cost-effective indigenous alternative to the imported granular form of the fertiliser.
About Nano DAP
- Launch: The Union Home Minister launched Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO’s) Nano Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) in April 2023.
Diammonium phosphate (DAP)
- It is made from two common macronutrients phosphate and nitrogen.
- It is popular because of its relatively highest concentration of phosphate and nitrogen content coupled with its excellent physical properties.
- It is an excellent source of P and N for plant nutrition.
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- Composition: 8% Nitrogen and 16% Phosphorus by volume.
- Di-ammonium Phosphate popularly known as DAP → 46% P, 18% Nitrogen
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Characteristic Features of Nano DAP
- In Liquid State: Unlike conventional DAP, which comes in granular form, IFFCO’s Nano DAP is in liquid form.
- Smaller Size: Its particle size is less than 100 Nanometre (nm).
- More Efficient: This tiny particle size makes Nano DAP more efficient and enables the fertiliser to enter easily inside the seed surface or through stomata and other plant openings.
- Higher Yield: Better assimilation of the fertiliser inside the plant system leads to “higher seed vigour, more chlorophyll, photosynthetic efficiency, better quality and increase in crop yields.”
Benefits of Nano DAP
- Reduced Subsidy Burden and Import Dependence on Fertilizer: Because of its improved use-efficiency, nano-DAP can assist the government lower its fertiliser subsidy burden.
- This also means that there will be reduced reliance on fertiliser imports.
- Reduced Input Costs: Nano-DAP can help cut agricultural input costs, allowing farmers to double their income.
- Greater agricultural sustainability: By boosting nutrient uptake, lowering water use, and cutting environmental losses, nano-DAP can increase agricultural sustainability.
Concerns about using Nano DAP
- Increased Nanoparticle concentration in Soil and Crops: Continued usage of nano-DAP may result in a rise in nanoparticles in soil and crops, with uncertain consequences for the environment and human health.
- Health Risks: When nano-sized particles are present in excessive numbers, they can be hazardous to one’s health.
- As a result, it is critical to ensure that farmers and consumers are safe when using nano-DAP.
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September 13, 2024
