Nano Dap Linked to Reduced Yield and Plant Growth

August 28, 2024

A two-year field experiment on the efficacy of nano diammonium phosphate (DAP) by scientists from the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has found a substantial decrease in wheat yields compared to conventional nitrogen fertiliser application.

In the study

The experiment revealed a significant decline in wheat yields compared to conventional nitrogen fertilisers.
The study observed a decrease in plant height and nutrient content in wheat grain and straw, impacting protein production.
When 100% Recommended dosage of phosphorus (RDP) was combined with two sprays of nano DAP, the yield was almost similar to that of traditional DAP.
Total plant uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus was lower with nano DAP (17.58 kg/ha) compared to traditional DAP (26.60 kg/ha).

About Nano DAP

Nano fertilizer developed by IFFCO using nanotechnology.
Contents – 8% nitrogen, 16% phosphorus vs 18% N, 46% P in regular DAP.
500ml nano-DAP equals 50kg conventional DAP.
Nano-DAP cost ₹600/bottle vs ₹1350/50kg for subsidized DAP.
IFFCO has 20-year patent – entitled to 20% royalty on global usage.
Manufacturing facilities in Kalol, Kandla (Gujarat) and Paradeep (Odisha).
Expected to reduce annual subsidy bill on non-urea fertilizers.
Provides benefits to farmers, industry players across production and distribution chain.

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About DAP or Di-Ammonium Phosphate

Di-ammonium Phosphate popularly known as DAP (46% P, 18% Nitrogen) is a preferred fertilizer in India because it contains both Nitrogen and Phosphorus which are primary macronutrients and part of 18 essential plant nutrients.
It is the second most commonly used fertilizer in India after urea.
It is thus applied just before, or at the time of sowing.
It is rich in phosphorus (P) that stimulates root establishment and development.

Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO)

It was founded in 1967.
Headquarters: New Delhi.
It is one of India’s biggest cooperative societies which is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives and is a multi-state cooperative society.

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