IFFCO Projects 10% Profit Rise Despite Sluggish Nano Fertiliser Adoption in India

The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited forecasts stronger earnings. IFFCO’s Managing Director, K J Patel, announced the projection this week. He stated net profit will grow 10% in the 2025-26 financial year. This comes even as use of their flagship nano fertiliser remains low among farmers.

The cooperative plans to intensify farmer training programs nationwide. This strategy aims to boost adoption of the eco-friendly nano products. According to PTI, Patel emphasized the deep bond with over five crore farmers as the company’s core strength.

Nano Fertiliser Faces Adoption Hurdles Despite Innovation Push

IFFCO launched its nano fertiliser four years ago. It is promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical options. However, sales data reveals a significant challenge.

In the last financial year, sales reached 3.64 crore bottles. Production capacity was much higher at 4.56 crore bottles. This translates to a mere 15% utilisation of the plants capable of making 29 crore bottles annually.

Patel openly acknowledged his dissatisfaction with these figures. He cited low farmer awareness and application complexities as key hurdles. Using nano fertiliser requires foliar spraying, a technique unfamiliar to many.

Mixed Trial Results and a Push for Transparency

The product’s effectiveness has been scrutinized. Trials by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and universities have shown mixed yields. Some experts express concerns about potential impacts on soil and the food chain.

Critics suggest the product benefits IFFCO’s subsidy management more than farmers. Patel rejected this criticism in his PTI interview. He argued the massive fertiliser subsidy largely covers imported raw materials.

To address questions, IFFCO is funding a major independent study. Patel confirmed a contribution of ₹4 crore to a ₹70-80 crore, five-year research project. This study will be led by ICAR under the agriculture ministry’s supervision.

IFFCO’s focus now turns to practical training and global expansion to meet its profit goals. The success of its nano fertiliser will depend heavily on convincing farmers of its tangible benefits.

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What are nano fertilisers?

Nano fertilisers are eco-friendly alternatives to conventional chemical fertilisers. They use nanotechnology to deliver nutrients to plants more efficiently. IFFCO launched its version in India four years ago.

Why are farmers not using more nano fertiliser?

Low awareness and application challenges are the main barriers. The product requires foliar spraying, which is a new technique for many. IFFCO is deploying more field assistants for village-level training to overcome this.

Has nano fertiliser been proven effective?

Field trials have delivered mixed results so far. To ensure transparency, IFFCO is helping fund a large, five-year independent study led by national agricultural authorities. The results will be made public.

What is IFFCO doing to increase sales?

The cooperative is boosting farmer training and subsidising drone spraying services. It is also focusing on international markets, like Brazil, where a new plant is being built and response has been positive.

What are IFFCO’s future product plans?

IFFCO is developing new products for a 2026 launch. These include organic fertilisers, inputs based on cow dung, and biochar. The goal is to offer a wider range of sustainable farming solutions.