Nanopesticides: Its Scope and Utility in Pest Management

Abstract

Pesticides have become one of the inevitable parts in Indian agriculture. The higher dosage of these chemicals on per hectare basis has led to many environmental and health hazards. The development of a new scientific area, nanotechnology has led to the development of nanopesticides. These chemicals contain the carrier molecule or the active ingredient in nano size. Several formulations viz., nanoemulsions, nanosuspensions, controlled release formulations, solid based nanopesticides have been developed by the research community. The smaller size of the chemicals helps in proper spreading on the pest surface and thus, a better action than conventional pesticides. Meanwhile, we should have a better understanding on the ill effects of these nano-pesticides after their application.