Coimbatore: Two research scholars at the Nano Department of Science & Technology at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) in Coimbatore have obtained scholarships under the Minister of Prime Minister (PMRF) scheme for their doctoral program in the latest technology involving industries and academics.
D pradeep works to reduce the number of fertilizers used by farmers because they pollute the ground and the body of the water.
The research topic is “the formulation of nano-fertilizers for smart delivery systems that supports drones.” “Through fertilizer air spray using a drone delivery system that is activated, the amount of fertilizer needed can be lowered and the plant can absorb fertilizer through the leaves,” Pradeep said.
S Shanmugapriya, whose research topic is “nano-bio hybrid to manage plant nematodes – fungal pathogens” also get fellowship.
The research work is to identify biodegradable molecules as active ingredients for vegetable plants that neutralize nematodes or warm and fungal pathogens using hybrid nano-bio technology.
“Such active ingredients are chosen in such a way that it will not affect the human body,” he said.
The PMRF scheme is designed to improve the quality of research in higher educational institutions by attracting the best talent to research.
The chosen under the fellowship meets the requirements to get a fellowship of Rs 70,000 per month for the next four years.
In addition, RS 2 Lakh Research Grants per year will be given each.