Nano Fertilizers and PLI: Govt Rules Out Inclusion
Why in the news
MoS for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel confirmed there is no proposal to cover nano fertilizers under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
About PLI
- Launched in 2020 under Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
- Aims: stronger domestic manufacturing, investment, exports and lower import dependence.
Nano-coated fertilisers
- Fertilisers wrapped in a layer of nanoparticles (polymers, metals or ceramics) that regulates nutrient release.
- Ordinary fertilisers release nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fast, so nutrients are lost by leaching, volatilisation and runoff.
How they work
| Mechanism | Effect |
|---|---|
| Slow, controlled release | Coating acts as a barrier; nutrients last longer |
| Protection from losses | Nutrients stay in soil until plants take them up |
| Better uptake efficiency | Less wastage, higher share absorbed |
| Solubility and bioavailability | Some nutrients become easier for plants to use |
Exam angle
- Ministry: Chemicals and Fertilizers.
- PLI year: 2020.