How does nanotechnology offer significant advancements in the field of agriculture ? How can this technology help to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers ?

Role in agricultural productivity and food security

1. Nano fertilizers like nano urea developed by IFFCO offer better application of nutrients directly to plant roots, increasing productivity.
2. Nano robots can be used in fields to develop precision farming systems.
3. Nano pesticides can be developed to decrease human exposure to harmful chemicals and decrease pesticide residue in fields.

Benefits of nano fertilizers & pesticides

1. Ensure correct application of fertilizers and deter over use of urea.
2. Increased yield.
3. Decreased chances of surface run off polluting ground water, surface level water bodies leading to issue of eutrophication.
4. Enhanced nitrogen use efficiency.
5. Increased resistance against pests decreasing crop losses.
6. Safeguards human health.
7. Encourage R&D in agro life sciences.
8. Help increase farmer incomes.
9. Help reduce agricultural distress.

Risks

1. Possibility of bio-accumulation and biomagnification of harmful compounds in animals & humans.
2. May increase economic pressure on farmers as these products are not provided on subsidies.
3. Nano waste may have negative impact on ecology.
4. May cause diseases like respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases.
5. May create a nano divide between haves & have nots.