Micronutrient deficiencies are a major challenge in Indian agriculture, affecting soil fertility and crop productivity. Various micronutrients such as zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and boron (B) are found deficient in different states, leading to significant yield losses. On average, 36.5% of soils in India are deficient in Zn, followed by 23.2% for B, 12.8% for Fe, 7.1% for Mn, and 4.2% for Cu.

• Zinc (Zn) Deficiency:Predominantly found in Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, Zn deficiency affects cereal and pulse crops.
• Iron (Fe) Deficiency:Acute deficiencies are recorded in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, and emerging concerns are in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
• Manganese (Mn) Deficiency:Mostly observed in sandy soils of Punjab and Haryana, particularly in rice-wheat cropping systems.
• Copper (Cu) Deficiency:Found in organic-rich and calcareous soils, affecting regions like Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh.
• Boron (B) Deficiency:Common in highly calcareous soils of Bihar and Gujarat, and acidic soils in West Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
• Molybdenum (Mo) Deficiency:Not widespread but localized in parts of Maharashtra and acidic soils of Odisha, West Bengal, and Kerala.

Need for Multi-Micronutrient Formulations

Given the site-specific variations in micronutrient deficiencies, multi-micronutrient formulations are essential for sustainable agriculture. The application of customized fertilizers enriched with multiple micronutrients ensures balanced soil fertility and improved crop yield.

State-Specific Micronutrient Formulations

To address the deficiencies in various states, specific grades of multi-micronutrient combinations have been developed by the concerned State government. These formulations are tailored to the soil type, cropping pattern, and regional nutrient depletion trends.

The adoption of multi-micronutrient formulations specific to soil-crop conditions is crucial for improving agricultural productivity and maintaining soil health.