Optimizing nutrient management strategies for enhanced millet production: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Millets are group of small seeded cereals called “nutricereals”, known for their resilience to adverse environmental conditions and high nutritional value. Despite their significant health benefits and adaptability, millet production in India has declined substantially over the decades due to various challenges including inadequate nutrient application practices and environmental stresses. The importance of effective nutrient management strategies to enhance millet productivity, by addressing factors such as balanced use of fertilizers, nutrient uptake and the soil fertility. Different nutrient sources, including inorganic fertilizer, organic amendments, micro nutrient biofertilizers and integrated nutrient management (INM) are discussed unveiling their effect on crop growth, yield and soil fertility. Moreover, the review emphasizes modern nutrient management techniques including site specific nutrient management (SSNM) and the potential of nano fertilizers, soil test based crop response, and drone technology in nutrient application. By consolidating existing knowledge and identifying research gap, this paper aims to provide recommendations for improving millet productivity and sustainability, thus contributing to food security.