Asian Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important crop globally with a consumption rate that supports more than one half of the population worldwide. Nonetheless, efficient management of nutrients and fertilization (FUE) for rice continues to be a challenge. Low nutrient use efficiency (NUE), environmental consequences, and high production cost are the result of excessive and imbalanced fertilizers. We are discussing recent developments of nutrient management approaches including Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM), Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), CRF, and organic amendments, which would enhance FUE. Particular emphasis will be placed on the contribution of precision agriculture, biofertilizers, and agronomic interventions to fertilizer use efficiency in an economically sound and sustainable manner. It further outlines the interactions of water management and nutrient absorption, particularly how irrigation practices can dictate the level at which nutrients are absorbed. Finally, this review also highlights the genetic and agronomic innovations that have been applied to improve NUE in modern rice varieties. Conclusions policy driven climate smart nutrient management strategies are necessary to achieve sustainable rice production with minimum environmental hazards in the future. The implications of this study include the suggestion for farmers, researchers and policy makers to improve nutrient management practices towards sustainable rice production.