Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during the interim budget presentation on February 1, declared the expansion of Nano DAP application on various crops across all agro-climatic zones. This move aims to enhance agricultural productivity and reduce dependence on imported fertilizers.
Understanding Nano DAP
Nano DAP, or di-ammonium phosphate, is a liquid fertilizer containing 8% Nitrogen and 16% Phosphorus by volume. Unlike traditional granular DAP, Nano DAP has a particle size of less than 100 nanometers, making it more efficient in terms of surface area to volume.
Benefits of Nano DAP
- Enhanced Efficiency: Nano DAP’s small particle size allows for easy absorption by seeds and plant openings, leading to higher seed vigor, increased chlorophyll, improved photosynthetic efficiency, better quality, and higher crop yields.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Priced at Rs 600 for a 500 ml bottle (equivalent to a 50-kg bag of conventional DAP priced at Rs 1,350), Nano DAP is a more pocket-friendly option. This affordability, coupled with government subsidies, eases the subsidy burden on the government.
- Convenience for Farmers: The liquid form of Nano DAP is more convenient for farmers. Transporting, storing, and using 500 ml bottles is simpler than handling 50-kg bags. The application involves spraying 250-500 ml of Nano DAP, dissolved in water, per acre.
- Reduced Import Dependency: Produced in Kalol, Gujarat, Nano DAP contributes to reducing the import burden on fertilizers. This aligns with the goal of achieving self-sufficiency in fertilizer production, a crucial step towards making India more self-reliant.
Government’s Perspective
Home Minister Amit Shah, during the launch of Nano DAP, emphasized its role in making India self-reliant in fertilizer production. The recent announcement by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reinforces the government’s commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in fertilizers, ultimately benefiting Indian farmers.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is Nano DAP?
a. Digital Agricultural Product
b. Di-ammonium Phosphate
c. Nano-sized Dairy Additive
d. New Agricultural Pesticide
Answer: b. Di-ammonium Phosphate - What is the particle size of Nano DAP?
a. More than 100 nanometers
b. Exactly 100 nanometers
c. Less than 100 nanometers
d. 200 nanometers
Answer: c. Less than 100 nanometers - How does Nano DAP benefit farmers in terms of cost?
a. It is more expensive than conventional DAP.
b. It does not qualify for government subsidies.
c. It is pocket-friendly and reduces the government’s subsidy burden.
d. It has no impact on the overall cost for farmers.
Answer: c. It is pocket-friendly and reduces the government’s subsidy burden. - What is the preferred mode of application for Nano DAP on crops?
a. Direct soil application
b. Mixing with seeds before sowing
c. Spraying dissolved in water
d. Applying as a solid granule
Answer: c. Spraying dissolved in water