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.

• 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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