Product Description
Nano DAP is an efficient source of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub>) for all crops. It contains 8.0% nitrogen and 16.0% phosphorus . The formulation helps correct nitrogen and phosphorus deficiencies in standing crops . Another brand of Nano DAP available in the market is Gromor Nano DAP .
What sets Nano DAP apart is its nanoscale particle size (less than 100 nm). This allows for better spreadability and assimilation within the plant system . The small size and high surface area of the particles enable easy absorption by plant leaves . Nano DAP's unique properties lead to:
Higher seed vigor
Increased chlorophyll concentration
Improved photosynthetic efficiency
Better crop quality
Increased crop yields
IFFCO, the developer of Nano DAP, is committed to sustainability and ensures that Nano DAP meets all current national and international guidelines related to nanotechnology and nanoscale agricultural inputs .
Benefits of Nano DAP
Nano DAP offers several advantages over conventional DAP fertilizers:
Increased Nutrient Use Efficiency: Nano DAP boasts a nutrient use efficiency of over 90% under optimal field conditions . This means that plants can absorb and utilize nutrients more effectively, leading to reduced fertilizer wastage and lower environmental impact. In contrast, conventional DAP fertilizers have a lower nutrient use efficiency, with a significant portion of the nutrients being lost to the environment due to runoff and leaching.
Reduced Environmental Impact: With its targeted application and high nutrient use efficiency, Nano DAP minimizes nutrient runoff and leaching, thereby reducing soil and water pollution . This is in contrast to conventional DAP, which contributes significantly to environmental pollution due to its lower nutrient use efficiency and the release of harmful chemicals into the environment.
Cost-Effectiveness: A 500 ml bottle of Nano DAP is equivalent to a 50-kg bag of conventional DAP, but it is priced significantly lower . This can lead to substantial cost savings for farmers. For instance, a 500 ml bottle of Nano DAP can cost around ₹600, while a 50-kg bag of conventional DAP costs around ₹1350 . Moreover, the prices of Nano DAP vary across different vendors, with some offering discounts and competitive pricing. For example, on Amazon, Nano DAP is available for ₹450 , while Sansar Green offers it for ₹164 with a 67% discount .
Convenience: The compact 500 ml bottles are easier to transport, store, and use compared to bulky 50-kg bags of conventional DAP .
Reduced Subsidy Burden: The higher efficiency of Nano DAP can help reduce the government's fertilizer subsidy burden . This is because less Nano DAP is required to achieve the same results as conventional DAP, leading to lower overall fertilizer costs.
Reduced Import Dependence: By promoting the use of indigenously produced Nano DAP, India can reduce its reliance on imported fertilizers . This can contribute to greater self-sufficiency in food production and reduce the country's vulnerability to global fertilizer price fluctuations. This is a crucial step towards achieving agricultural sustainability and food security in India.
Mode of Action
Nano DAP's effectiveness stems from its unique formulation:
Nanoscale Particles: The nanoparticles of DAP in Nano DAP are less than 100 nm in size, providing a large surface area for interaction with plant cells. Imagine these nanoparticles as tiny delivery trucks carrying essential nutrients directly to the plant's cells. Their small size allows them to easily penetrate the plant's tissues and deliver nutrients more efficiently.
Polymer Encapsulation: The DAP particles are encapsulated in polymers, which facilitate the gradual release of nutrients and enhance their absorption by plants . Think of this encapsulation as a slow-release mechanism that ensures a continuous supply of nutrients to the plant over time. This prevents nutrient loss and maximizes their utilization by the plant.
Bioavailability: The nanoscale size and polymer encapsulation make the nutrients in Nano DAP readily available to plants, leading to improved nutrient uptake and utilization.
Application Methods
MethodDescriptionDosageSeed TreatmentApply Nano DAP by dissolving it in water to form a thin film on the seed surface. Leave for 20-30 minutes, shade dry, and then sow.3-5 ml per kg of seedsSeedling/Tuber/Sett TreatmentDip the seedling roots/tubers/setts in the Nano DAP solution for 20-30 minutes, dry in shade, and then transplant.3-5 ml per liter of waterFoliar SprayApply Nano DAP at the good foliage stage (tillering/branching). An additional spray at the pre-flowering stage can be applied for long-duration and high-phosphorus-requiring crops.2-4 ml per liter of water
Export to Sheets
The dosage and quantity of Nano DAP depend on the seed size, weight, and type of crop .
Certifications and Awards
IFFCO Nano DAP has undergone rigorous testing and certification:
OECD Testing Guidelines: Nano DAP is in sync with OECD testing guidelines for nano agri-inputs .
Department of Biotechnology Guidelines: It adheres to the guidelines for testing nano agri-inputs and food products by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India .
NABL Accreditation and GLP Certification: Nano DAP has been tested and certified for bio-efficacy, biosafety, toxicity, and environmental suitability by NABL-accredited and GLP-certified laboratories .
In recognition of his contributions to the development and promotion of Nano DAP, Dr. Udai Shanker Awasthi, the Managing Director of IFFCO, was honored with the prestigious 2024 Rochdale Pioneers Award . This award is the highest honor bestowed by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) and recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to innovative and financially sustainable cooperative activities.
While Nano DAP has shown promising results in several studies, it is important to note that some studies have raised concerns about its effectiveness. A study from Punjab Agricultural University reported a decrease in wheat yield with Nano DAP compared to conventional DAP . Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of Nano DAP in different cropping systems.
Conclusion
Nano DAP represents a significant advancement in fertilizer technology. Its unique formulation and numerous benefits make it a promising tool for sustainable agriculture. By enhancing nutrient use efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and improving crop yields, Nano DAP has the potential to revolutionize farming practices and contribute to increased food security. This aligns with India's goals for sustainable agriculture and reducing reliance on imports, as Nano DAP offers a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional DAP fertilizers . Moreover, the development and adoption of Nano DAP have the potential to position India as a global leader in sustainable agricultural practices. However, it is essential to consider the findings of all research studies and continue to evaluate its performance in various agricultural settings.
