Key Research Findings by TERI
- Yield increase: Nano sulphur use raises mustard yield by 30–40%, from 1,156 kg/acre to approx. 1,559 kg/acre (3.7 tonnes/hectare)
- Oil content rise: Enhances oil content by 28–30%
- Comparable to GM mustard DMH11, which shows 10–40% higher yield in trials
- Applicable to non-GM mustard varieties, making it a conventional alternative
Field Trials and Application
- Trials conducted in Gurugram, Haryana during Rabi season 2023–24
- Tested on two Indian Brassica juncea mustard varieties
- Two foliar sprays of nano sulphur applied at 35 and 50 days after sowing
Agronomic Benefits
- Improved plant height, number of branches, chlorophyll content, and biological yield
- Reduces need for traditional sulphur fertilisers by up to 50%
- Helps in better nutrient uptake due to targeted foliar application
Farmer Impact and Economic Advantage
- Additional income potential of â‚ą12,000 per acre for farmers
- Especially beneficial to small and marginal farmers
- Compensates cost of nano sulphur and foliar application
Soil and Environmental Relevance
- 41–45% of Indian soils are sulphur-deficient
- States like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh are most affected
- Nano sulphur is more efficient than traditional sulphur, especially in sandy or compact soils:
- Nano sulphur availability to plants: 90–100%
- Traditional sulphur availability: 10–15%
Sustainability and Innovation
- TERI’s nano sulphur is a green product, unlike some existing nano fertilisers
- Made with biological agents (e.g., plant growth-promoting bacteria and enzymes)
- Helps avoid leaching and root bypass seen with conventional sulphur
