Rajkot: A student at Nanoscience Bhawan of Saurashtra University here, under the guidance of his mentor, has pioneered new patented inventions in the field of soilless agriculture utilising sponges, minimising water usage, and reducing fertiliser application. The successful cultivation of moong (mung bean) using nano-fertilizer marks a significant achievement.

Farmers face regular challenges, such as crops being swept away by winds or storms. This prompted the question: can farming be conducted without land and soil under such conditions? Dr. Jaisukh Markana, Assistant Professor at Nanoscience Bhavan, Saurashtra University, gave this challenge to his Ph.D. student, Gaurav Jadav, instigating research into soilless farming with nanotechnology.

Dr. Jaisukh Markana highlighted India’s high population density and the scarcity of fertile land, inspiring the concept of soilless farming. To explore this idea, they conducted experiments by planting Moong seeds in a sponge, incorporating nano fertiliser, and watering the setup.

Gaurav Jadav, a physics student and Ph.D. candidate in nanoscience, explained the process of farming without soil using a sponge. The initial step involved coating the sponge with nanofertilizer, followed by planting Moong seeds. Through various laboratory tests, Moong plants thrived with reduced fertiliser and water. This research earned recognition in patent form, securing Saurashtra University a grant of Rs. 50,000 under SSIP (Student Startup and Innovation Policy).

Given the escalating population in India and the heightened demand for agricultural crops, the innovative method of sponge cultivation proves advantageous for farmers, particularly in regions with limited fertile land. DeshGujarat