2024, Vol. 7, Issue 7, Part G

author(s)
Nalla Sai Suchita, Madhurima Dey, Suresh Kumar Billa, Nunavath Umil Singh, Gandi Rupa, Doppalapudi Vijaya Rani and Vechalapu Pushpalatha

abstract
The agricultural sector, the world's largest and most time-honored industry, faces a multitude of challenges today. A rapidly growing global population has led to an ever-increasing demand for food and grains, exacerbating the strain on dwindling resources. In response, synthetic fertilizers have been widely adopted, but their pervasive use has driven up farming costs. Unfortunately, the utilization of low-quality, less efficient synthetic fertilizers has compounded the problem, resulting in adverse environmental and economic consequences. However, a ray of hope emerged in the form of nanotechnology, offering a promising solution for sustainable agriculture. Nanofertilizers, a product of this innovative technology, have emerged as a boon for modern farming. They serve to enhance plant nutrition, improve nutrient utilization efficiency, and bolster soil fertility. Beyond these benefits, nanofertilizers also induce genetic, physiological, and morphological changes in plants that impact soil microbiological symbiosis and physicochemical properties. This article provides a critical examination of nanofertilizers, encompassing their preparation, properties, and applications. It also identifies future research avenues aimed at facilitating the smart and judicious use of bio-nanofertilizers. By harnessing the unique characteristics of nanoscale active ingredients, such as controlled release and targeted delivery, nanofertilizers offer the potential to significantly boost crop yields and quality. Furthermore, their use can have a positive impact on various environmental aspects. In summary, this review sheds light on how nanotechnology, through the development and application of nanofertilizers, holds the promise of revolutionizing agriculture by addressing the pressing challenges of resource scarcity and sustainable food production.