ICAR-CIRCOT Nanofertilizer Technology

In India, various modern farming technologies are being used to improve the production and productivity of agricultural and horticultural crops. Among them, Nanotechnology helps farmers by enhancing the fertilizer use efficiency and supporting precision farming by the use of controlled release fertilizers.

ICAR-CIRCOT’s Nano-Zn Technology

Field Trial

A field experiment conducted at M/s. Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd., Mumbai (RCF) experimental farm demonstrated the effect of Nano-Zn in combination with N:P:K (15:15:15) complex fertilizer “Suphala” of RCF Ltd. on growth attributes of brinjal (Solanum melongena L) as well as nutrient use efficiency. Nano-Zn synergistically enhanced the yield (70%) and biomass (45%) in brinjal.

Nano Pilot Plant

With the funding support from Government of India, a pilot plant for production of nanomaterials (with a capacity of 10 kg in 8 hours) is operational now in Mumbai. This pilot plant, first of its kind in India, was established using in-house technology with complete automation in material handling system and incorporating safety measurements and waste disposal methodologies

Commercialization

The Nano-Zn production technology is licensed to M/s. Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (RCF), Mumbai for commercial production so that the benefit of nanotechnology can reach the Indian farming community. This technology is expected to reduce the quantum of fertilizer requirement and improves the plant growth thereby benefiting the farmers.

Thus, in line with the Government of India’s “Make in India” programme, ICAR-CIRCOT is contributing to the Indian farming community in development of nanotechnology based fertilizers for better income to the farmers.

Contact Details:
The Director
ICAR-CIRCOT, Matunga, Mumbai 400019.
Web: www.circot.icar.gov.in;
Email: director[dot]circot[at]icar[dot]gov[dot]in