2025 · GS Paper 3 · Q15 · 15 marks
How does nanotechnology offer significant advancements in the field of agriculture ? How can this technology help to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers ?
In short
Nanotechnology advances agriculture through nano-fertilisers, slow-release nano-pesticides, nanosensors for precision farming and nano-packaging, and it can raise farmers' incomes by cutting costs and losses. IFFCO's Nano Urea (2021) aims to replace a 45 kg urea bag with a 500 ml bottle, though field trials are still needed.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 276 words
Nano-fertilisers
Nano Urea and Nano DAP (2023), notified under the Fertiliser Control Order, are absorbed through leaves and cut run-off.
Nano-pesticides and seeds
Nano-encapsulated pesticides release slowly at the target, and nano-primed seeds germinate better under stress.
Nanosensors
They detect moisture, nutrient deficits, pathogens and aflatoxin early, enabling precision farming.
Water and storage
Nano-zeolites and hydrogels hold soil water, and nano-coated packaging extends the shelf life of produce.
Lower costs
Smaller doses and cheaper transport ease bills for the 86% of holdings found small and marginal in the Agriculture Census 2015-16.
Less loss
Better storage can cut post-harvest losses that NABCONS (2022) valued at about Rs 1.53 lakh crore a year.
New jobs and health
Namo Drone Didi lets women's self-help groups earn from drone spraying, and lower residues protect farmers' health and exports.
Evidence and safety
After a 2024 Punjab Agricultural University study reported lower yields with nano urea, ICAR trials and the DBT's 2020 nano-agri guidelines must guide adoption.
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Nano-technology3 questions
Asked in 3 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2020What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health sector?
- 2016Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? Describe the salient features of Indian Government's Mission on Nanoscience and Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the country.
Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2025 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.