Recently, an opinion paper in the journal “Plant and Soil” questioned the scientific validity of Nano Liquid Urea, a product of the Indian Farmers and Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO). The paper scrutinized the claims about liquid nano urea’s efficacy and benefits, advocating for rigorous scientific examination before introducing nano fertilizers into the market.
Liquid Nano Urea: An Overview
Liquid Nano Urea is a nanoparticle form of conventional urea that provides nitrogen to plants – a vital component needed for growth. Developed at the Nano Biotechnology Research Centre in Kalol, Gujarat, India, it has been found effective and efficient in providing nutrition for plants, enhancing production and nutritional value.
The use of liquid nano urea can reduce the need for conventional urea by at least 50%. It contains 40,000 mg/L of nitrogen in a 500 ml bottle that is equivalent to the nutrient impact provided by one bag of conventional urea.
The Importance of Liquid Nano Urea
IFFCO introduced liquid nano urea as a viable option for plant nutrition, intending to reduce imports and meet India’s urea requirements domestically. It also plays a role in promoting balanced nutrition for crops, making them stronger and healthier while protecting them from lodging effects. Besides, it impacts the quality of underground water positively, reduces global warming effects, and contributes to sustainable development.
IFFCO’s Assertions and Researchers’ Concerns
IFFCO had claimed that a small quantity of nano liquid urea could replace a substantial amount of conventional urea. The government and IFFCO planned to expand nano urea production and exports significantly. However, researchers expressed concerns about potential ramifications, emphasizing that exaggerated claims could lead to severe yield losses, impacting food security and farmers’ livelihoods.
Concerns Raised By the Paper: Discrepancy and Environmental Impact
The paper pointed out a discrepancy between product claims and real-world outcomes, noting that farmers did not see noticeable improvements in crop yield. Additionally, it contradicted IFFCO’s environmental-friendly claim, highlighting that nitrogen linked to several environmental issues including Climate Change, Ocean Acidification, and Ozone Depletion.
Recommendations of the Study
The need for managing excess nitrogen was highlighted due to its negative impact on the environment. The study stressed the significance of a transparent, rigorous scientific evaluation before introducing new agricultural technologies. It emphasized responsible innovation and evidence-based decision-making in agriculture, considering this sector’s implications for food security, farmers’ livelihoods, and the environment.
About the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO)
IFFCO, one of India’s biggest cooperative societies, is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives. Founded in 1967 with just 57 cooperatives, it now amalgamates over 36,000 Indian Cooperatives. Its business interests range from General Insurance to Rural Telecom, besides its core operation of producing and selling fertilizers.
IFFCO’s objective is to help Indian farmers prosper by ensuring timely delivery of reliable, high-quality agricultural inputs and services in an environmentally sustainable manner. Through its diversified interests, IFFCO aims to improve farmers’ welfare.
The Controversy Surrounding Nano Liquid Urea
The controversy surrounding Nano Liquid Urea highlights the need for transparency and responsible innovation in the agricultural sector. It underscores the importance of striking a balance between technological advancements and environmental sustainability in agriculture. This balance is crucial for the well-being of farmers, food security, and the planet as a whole.
UPSC Civil Services Examination: Reference Question
In relation to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements:
1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is not administered by the Government but is driven by the market.
2. Ammonia, an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.
3. Sulphur, a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.
The correct answers are statements 2 and 3. The government actually subsidizes fertilizers to ensure easy availability for farmers and to maintain agricultural self-sufficiency. This is achieved mainly through price control and production regulation. Therefore, statement 1 is incorrect.