<h4>Context and Introduction</h4><p>The application of <strong>Nano DAP</strong> (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) as a fertilizer is set for expansion across various crops and all agro-climatic zones in India. This was announced by the <strong>Finance Minister</strong> in the <strong>Interim Budget 2024-25</strong>, highlighting its growing importance in agricultural practices.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> The mention of <strong>Nano DAP</strong> in the <strong>Interim Budget 2024-25</strong> signifies its strategic importance for agricultural development and farmer welfare. Questions may arise on its technology, benefits, and government initiatives.</p></div><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Nano Fertilizers:</strong> These are highly efficient types of fertilizers. They deliver essential nutrients like <strong>nitrogen</strong> to crops through extremely fine granules or liquid forms, ensuring better absorption and reduced wastage compared to conventional fertilizers.</p></div><h4>What is Nano DAP?</h4><p><strong>Nano DAP</strong> is a specialized, advanced form of the conventional <strong>Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)</strong>. It is specifically engineered to significantly enhance the fertilizer's efficacy in promoting robust plant growth and overall development.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Conventional DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate):</strong></p><ul><li>It is the <strong>second most commonly used fertilizer</strong> in India, following <strong>urea</strong>.</li><li><strong>DAP</strong> is highly favored in India due to its dual nutrient content: both <strong>Nitrogen (N)</strong> and <strong>Phosphorus (P)</strong>.</li><li>These are crucial <strong>primary macro-nutrients</strong> and are among the <strong>18 essential plant nutrients</strong> required for healthy crop development.</li></ul></div><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Composition of Fertilizer-Grade DAP:</strong></p><ul><li>Contains <strong>18% Nitrogen (N)</strong>.</li><li>Contains <strong>46% Phosphorus (P)</strong>.</li><li>It is produced by reacting <strong>Ammonia</strong> with <strong>Phosphoric acid</strong> under carefully controlled conditions within fertilizer manufacturing plants.</li></ul></div><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Nano DAP: The Advanced Form</strong></p><ul><li>In <strong>2023</strong>, the <strong>Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO)</strong> pioneered the launch of its <strong>Nano DAP</strong> product.</li><li>Unlike traditional <strong>DAP</strong>, which is typically available in granular form, <strong>IFFCO's Nano DAP</strong> is delivered in a convenient <strong>liquid form</strong>.</li></ul></div><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Composition of IFFCO's Nano DAP:</strong></p><ul><li>Contains <strong>8% Nitrogen (N)</strong> by volume.</li><li>Contains <strong>16% Phosphorus (P)</strong> by volume.</li><li>Its liquid formulation allows for improved absorption and utilization by plants, leading to enhanced nutrient delivery.</li></ul></div>