Integrated Nano-Biofertilization for Enhancing Soil Health, Productivity and Sustainability in Pulse Crops: A Review

Abstract

Pulse crops are vital for global food and nutritional security owing to their high protein content and ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. However, declining soil fertility, low nutrient-use efficiency, and excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers have necessitated the development of sustainable nutrient management strategies. The integration of biofertilizers and nano-fertilizers represents a sustainable and technologically advanced approach to enhance soil health, nutrient efficiency, and crop productivity in pulse-based systems. Conventional fertilizer dependence has led to nutrient imbalances and environmental degradation, necessitating alternative strategies for sustainable intensification. Biofertilizers, comprising beneficial microorganisms such as Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azospirillum, and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, improve soil fertility by promoting nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and enzymatic activity. Meanwhile, nano-fertilizers engineered at the nanoscale enable targeted and controlled nutrient delivery, enhancing nutrient use efficiency (NUE) while minimizing losses through leaching and volatilization. When integrated, these nano-biofertilizer systems synergistically enhance microbial activity, nutrient cycling, and root development, resulting in improved growth, yield, and seed quality of pulse crops such as chickpea, lentil, and mungbean. Integrated nutrient management using nano-bioformulations also improves soil organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and microbial biomass, contributing to long-term soil fertility and resilience. Furthermore, these systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions, nutrient runoff, and heavy metal accumulation, promoting climate-smart and environmentally responsible agriculture. Several studies reviewed in this article indicate that integrated nano-biofertilizer approaches enhance crop productivity, nutrient-use efficiency, and seed protein content while contributing to improved soil health and sustainability. Despite promising results, challenges persist regarding standardization, field variability and safety regulation of nano-materials. Overall, nano-biofertilizer integration offers a viable pathway toward sustainable pulse production and global food security through efficient, eco-friendly nutrient management.