Comparative Effects of Neem-coated Urea, Agrotain Urea and Nano Nitrogen on Nutrient Uptake of Paddy Crop

Aims: To evaluate the impact of innovative nitrogen management strategies, including neem-coated urea (NCU), nano fertilizers, and Agrotain urea, on nutrient use efficiency (NUE), NPK uptake, and rice productivity in the Southern Telangana Zone. Study Design: Randomized block design with 3 replications, including traditional and innovative nitrogen formulations combined with foliar-applied nano nitrogen sprays. Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, during the Kharif season of 2021&2022. Methodology: The experiment was conducted on the JGL 24423 rice variety. Treatments included varying nitrogen rates (100%, 50%, and 33% recommended dose of nitrogen [RDN]) applied as NCU (Neem Coated Urea), Agrotain UG (urea granules), or combinations with nano nitrogen sprays. Nitrogen was applied in three splits (transplanting, tillering, and panicle initiation). Nutrient uptake (NPK) was analyzed using standard laboratory methods, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA to assess treatment effects. Results: The 100% RDN-STCR (Soil Test Crop Response)-based NCU treatment demonstrated the highest mean nitrogen uptake (66.8 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 53.7 kg ha⁻¹ in straw), phosphorus uptake (18.7 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 9.5 kg ha⁻¹ in straw), and potassium uptake (37.7 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 120.9 kg ha⁻¹ in straw). Reduced nitrogen treatments with nano nitrogen sprays showed moderate nutrient uptake.The control and nano nitrogen sprays alone had the lowest uptake levels. Conclusion: Nitrogen management strategies, particularly 100% RDN-STCR-based NCU, significantly enhanced NUE, nutrient uptake, and rice productivity, demonstrating their potential for sustainable rice cultivation.