IFFCO launches nano-tech based fertilisers for on-field trials

Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) introduced its 'nano-technology' based products that includes nano nitrogen, nano zinc and nano copper for an on-field trials in order to reduce usage of chemical fertilisers and give a boost to farmer's income. 

These environment-friendly products have been introduced for the first time in India and have potential to decrease the usage of conventional chemical fertilisers by 50 per cent besides raising crop output by 15-30 per cent, IFFCO said in a statement.

The products were launched at an event held at IFFCO’s unit in Kalol, Gujarat, by the Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister Mr. Sadananda Gowda.

Mr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge) and Chemicals & Fertilizers; Mr. Parshottam Rupala, Union Minister of State for Agriculture; and Mr. Nitin Patel, Deputy Chief Minister, Gujarat, were also present at the event.

In order to introduce these new products and start a field trial across the country, an invitation to progressive farmers (34 in total) from each and every state including the Padma Shri awardee farmers was sent.

IFFCO Nano Biotechnology Research Centre (NBRC) at Kalol Unit, has researched and developed these products.

The benefits of these nano-products include the reduction in the need of the conventional chemical fertilisers by 50 per cent, increasing the crop production by 15-30 per cent, improving the soil health along with cutting the green-house gases emission. 

"This step will certainly complement to the vision of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for doubling the farmer's income by 2022," said Mr. Gowda.

IFFCO managing director U S Awasthi said, "In the first phase of the launch these products will be tested on farms under controlled conditions with support from ICAR/KVK."

An alternative of urea, nano-nitrogen decreases the requirement of urea by 50 per cent and the requirement of NPK fertilisers is cut down by 50 per cent by the usage of 10 gm of nano-zinc for a hectare of land. 

Nano-copper gives both protection and nutrition to the plant and boost its immunity against the harmful pathogens, leading to increase in activity of plant growth and its overall development, Awasthi said.
  
IFFCO plans to introduce newer products in its nano-product range after the introduction of the initial range products.

The NBRC lab is also in the process for development of several nutrient combinations in the future.

IFFCO was founded in 1967 and is an incorporation of over 35,000 cooperatives. At present, it has five fertilisers plants in India and also operates in general insurance, food processing and organic food businesses.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.