Impact of Biofertilizers and Integrated Nutrient Management on Transplanted Rice for Improving the Growth, Yield and Soil Quality: A Review

Abstract

This review paper examines the role of biofertilizers and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) in enhancing the growth, yield, and soil fertility of transplanted rice. Biofertilizers, which include beneficial microorganisms, contribute to soil nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, and overall plant health, while INM combines organic, inorganic, and biological inputs to optimize nutrient availability. For instance, combining 50% biofertilizer with 50% chemical fertilizer increased rice yield by up to 15–20% compared to chemical fertilizers alone, while improving soil organic carbon and reducing environmental degradation through lower nitrate leaching (Noraida et al., 2021; Kumar et al., 2023). The synergistic effects of these practices have shown promising results in improving rice productivity, soil structure, and sustainability in rice farming systems. The paper explores various studies that highlight the effectiveness of biofertilizers and INM in enhancing soil health, increasing nutrient use efficiency, and reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, it discusses the potential challenges and future directions for integrating these practices into modern rice cultivation for long-term agricultural sustainability.