Mumbai : In a significant step toward advancing agricultural innovation, the Government of India has formally included nano fertilizers within the regulatory framework of the fertilizer (Inorganic, Organic or Mixed) Control Order, 1985. Through a notification issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on March 13, 2026, a total of 14 nano fertilizer products have been approved for manufacture and sale for an initial period of two years.

This development marks a structured and policy-driven entry of nano fertilizers into India’s agricultural input ecosystem. The notified products cover a broad spectrum of nutrient categories, including nano urea in multiple concentrations, nano DAP formulations, and nano NPK variants available in both liquid and granular forms. The list also includes micronutrient solutions such as nano zinc and nano phosphorus. By clearly defining product specifications and standards, the government has established a scientific baseline for innovation, ensuring consistency and quality across the emerging nano fertilizer segment.

A key highlight of the regulatory framework is the emphasis on technical validation. The notification mandates that at least 50 percent of the particles in these fertilizers must be below 100 nanometers. This requirement is verified through advanced analytical methods such as Transmission Electron Microscopy and Dynamic Light Scattering. These conditions ensure that only genuine nano-scale formulations with measurable efficiency benefits are introduced into the market. Such standards are expected to maintain product integrity and build trust among farmers and stakeholders.

The list of approved manufacturers reflects a healthy mix of established industry leaders and emerging technology-driven enterprises. Prominent names such as Coromandel International Limited, Indian Farmers fertilizer Cooperative Ltd, and Rashtriya Chemicals and fertilizers are joined by newer players including Nano Fertilizer Private Limited, Ray Nano Sciences and Research Centre, Proto9 Materials Private Limited, and SKR Agro Tech Limited. This diverse participation reflects growing confidence within the industry regarding the scalability and commercial potential of nano fertilizers.

Alongside product approvals, the government has introduced safeguards to promote responsible use and protect farmer interests. Manufacturers are prohibited from bundling nano fertilizers with other agricultural inputs, ensuring that farmers retain the freedom to make independent purchasing decisions. In addition, product labels and supporting literature must clearly specify crop-wise dosage, stage of application, and methods of use. This ensures that farmers receive clear and practical guidance for effective application.

To encourage adoption at the grassroots level, companies are required to conduct demonstrations at Krishi Vigyan Kendras. These initiatives aim to showcase the benefits and correct usage of nano fertilizers in real farming conditions. This approach helps bridge the gap between scientific innovation and field-level implementation, which is critical for wider acceptance.

The inclusion of nano fertilizers under the FCO framework is expected to have important implications for both productivity and sustainability. These formulations are designed to improve nutrient use efficiency through targeted delivery and better absorption by crops. As a result, farmers may be able to reduce fertilizer consumption while maintaining or improving yields.

Improved efficiency can also reduce nutrient losses caused by leaching, volatilisation, and runoff. This contributes to lower environmental impact and supports India’s broader focus on sustainable and resource-efficient agriculture.

The two-year approval period reflects a cautious and adaptive policy approach. It allows for real-world evaluation across different agro-climatic regions, assessment of farmer response, and collection of field data. These insights are expected to guide future policy decisions and support the gradual scaling of nano fertilizer adoption across the country.