Journal of Global Agriculture and Ecology

Nano-agriculture has emerged as a promising approach to modern farming. Nano-formulations, particularly nano-fertilizers, enable targeted delivery of nutrients, reduce the required input doses, and enhance nutrient use efficiency. These nano-technologies also contribute to increased stress tolerance, improved plant immune responses, and better crop performance, making them a viable alternative to conventional fertilizers. The present study aimed to assess the costs and returns associated with varying levels of conventional and nano-fertilizer applications. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 at the All India Network Research Project on Onion and Garlic, UAS, Dharwad, to evaluate the economic performance of onion (Allium cepa) cultivation under Integrated Crop Management (ICM) practices with a special emphasis on Nano fertilizers. Thirteen treatments involving combinations of conventional fertilizers, secondary and micronutrients, and Nano formulations were assessed for their impact on cost of cultivation, gross and net returns, and benefit-cost (B:C) ratios. Results showed that treatments incorporating Nano fertilizers—particularly T11 (Nano-Zn + Nano-Fe + Boron + Sulphur) and T12 (Vegetable special)—consistently delivered higher economic returns and profitability, achieving the highest net returns (₹325,705 and ₹317,132, respectively) and B:C ratios (2.99). In contrast, conventional high-input treatments like T5 incurred the highest costs without proportionate returns, while the absolute control (T13) had the lowest costs and returns, resulting in the least profitability. The study highlights the effectiveness of Nano fertilizers in improving nutrient use efficiency, reducing input costs, and supporting sustainable and profitable onion production. These findings support a strategic shift toward integrated nutrient management by combining reduced conventional inputs with targeted Nano interventions. The study results advocate for a paradigm shift toward input-optimized, environmentally sound practices in onion production, offering a promising path toward resilient and sustainable agriculture.