International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Global food demand is increasing rapidly owing to population growth, placing considerable pressure on agricultural systems to enhance productivity under constraints on natural resources. Although conventional fertiliser use has contributed significantly to improved yields, its excessive and imbalanced application has resulted in soil degradation, nutrient leaching, groundwater contamination, and increased emissions of nitrous oxide (N₂O), thereby reducing nutrient use efficiency (NUE). In this context, smart fertilisation has emerged as a science-driven nutrient management strategy that emphasises the application of the right nutrient source at the right rate, time and place (4R principle), supported by advanced tools such as soil and plant sensors, remote sensing, geographic information systems, and decision-support platforms. Key components include controlled-release fertilisers, nano-fertilisers, bio-formulations, fertigation systems, variable rate technology (VRT), and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based crop monitoring. Evidence from multi-location field studies across diverse agro-climatic regions of India and other countries indicates that smart fertilisation can enhance nutrient use efficiency by 50–80%, reduce fertiliser input by 19–30%, and improve crop yields by 22–30% in major crops such as rice, wheat, maize and pulses. With the global fertiliser market exceeding USD 200 billion, the adoption of precision nutrient management technologies is gaining momentum. Overall, smart fertilisation offers a sustainable intensification pathway by improving productivity while simultaneously minimising environmental externalities. However, challenges related to technology accessibility, cost, and farmer adoption remain critical constraints that require policy and institutional support.