Scientists at Pune's MACS-Agharkar Research Institute have developed a nanofertiliser that not only boosts the zinc content of the country's indigenous wheat by 36%, but also reduces the use of fertiliser by up to eight times. Results of an extensive, four-year trial revealed the sprayed nanofertiliser stuck to the crop's leaves, rather than running off into the soil, and also boosted levels of iron and protein in the wheat without altering the taste. Zinc deficiency affects 90% of the Indian population and is linked to weaker immune systems, poorer reproductive health and diabetes.
Scientists at Pune's MACS-Agharkar Research Institute have developed a nanofertiliser that not only boosts the zinc content of the country's indigenous wheat by 36%, but also reduces the use of fertiliser by up to eight times. Results of an extensive, four-year trial revealed the sprayed nanofertiliser stuck to the crop's leaves, rather than running off into the soil, and also boosted levels of iron and protein in the wheat without altering the taste. Zinc deficiency affects 90% of the south Asian population and is linked to weaker immune systems, poorer reproductive health and diabetes.