What is nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology is technology conducted at a nanoscale, i.e between 1 to 100 nanometers.

It is the study and application of extremely small things and can be used across different scientific fields, such as chemistry, biology, physics, materials science, and engineering.

Apart from all the other fields, nanotechnology has greatly helped in the field of agriculture.

Benefits of nanotechnology in agriculture 

Nanotechnology due to its extremely small size has brought multifaceted benefits to the agricultural sector. It has helped greatly in reducing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and has hugely benefited in the process of crop improvement by controlling nutrient losses.

Its use in precision farming by using nanomaterials like nano-tubes, nano fertilizers, biosensors has given a huge boost to overall agricultural production.

Nano bioremediation and nanofibers for genetic manipulation of food crops, fruits, and vegetables are still in the ambit of research and development. It has a promising future for farmers practicing organic and genetically modified farming. Today simple processes such as checking the soil moisture and planting of seeds can be easily carried out in less time with the help of nanotechnology.

The present research focuses on its impact on plant growth, soil microflora, protocols for safe production, and nanomaterials for reducing soil intoxication.

Nanotechnology for sustainable farming

Nanotechnology is fast showing promising results in the field of sustainable agriculture.

It has brought with it various applications such as nano biosensors, nano fertilizers, nanotube irrigation facilities, nano remediation processes for soil health improvement.

The most relevant aspects where nanotechnology is applied are :

• Nano-fertilizer and pesticide delivery
• Slow and monitored release of nanoparticles with biofertilizers to improve soil health
• Genetic modification at nanoscale for increasing crop productivity
• Use of nano biosensors for rapid detection of pathogens and other disease-causing viruses and bacteria

In the current scenario, the agriculture sector is facing major stresses related to climate change, deficiency of soil nutrients, reduced soil fertility, and overuse of chemical fertilizers. Over this consumer-based model of demand and supply has caused a huge increase in pressure over agricultural lands. A much-needed respite has been provided by the field of nanotechnology as it has greatly led to an increase in crop production, soil productivity, and increased farmer’s income.

Nano-biotechnology has been an important area for the government of India which had launched a National Nano Mission in 2007 that looks at the uses of nanotechnology in various fields. It emphasized the need to create a network of experts in nanotechnology and to share their knowledge across sectors like energy, agriculture, transport, health, and so on.

As you can see, the agricultural sector is slowly opening up to technology. Take the example of the digital revolution happening in mandis where farmers trade their commodities. Commission agents or aadathiyas have now moved to mobile trading apps like Bijak and online accounting software like ChargeERP for their business accounting. If you want to know more about ChargeERP or book your free demo, please dial +91 9311341199  or visit www.chargeerp.com today.