Title : A Research Project Proposal on the Influence of Nitrogen Fertilizer

on the Yield of Maize in Bangladesh

1. Country Overview and Assessment Findings

Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is home to over 170 million people, making it one of
the most densely populated countries in the world. The economy is diversifying, yet
agriculture remains a key sector, employing nearly 40% of the workforce and
contributing significantly to food security and rural livelihoods. Although the garment
industry and remittances play a dominant role in GDP, agriculture—particularly the
cultivation of rice, jute, maize, and vegetables—remains crucial for sustainable
development.

Politically, Bangladesh is a stable parliamentary democracy. Social services, education,

and rural development have improved over the years, leading to increased productivity
in many areas. However, climate-related risks, such as floods and droughts, still
challenge agricultural sustainability.

Maize has become one of the most rapidly growing crops in Bangladesh, largely due to
increasing demand from the poultry and food processing industries. Yet, the national
average maize yield (8–9 tons/ha) remains significantly below its potential (12–14
tons/ha). One major constraint is the inefficient use of nitrogen fertilizer.

Nitrogen is essential for plant growth and grain development, but farmers often lack
knowledge about correct dosage and application methods. Secondary data from the
Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI, 2022) and Department of Agricultural
Extension (DAE, 2023) reveal that more than 60% of maize farmers either under-apply
or over-apply nitrogen. This mismanagement reduces yield, increases production cost,
and causes environmental pollution through nitrate leaching and nitrous oxide
emissions.

A detailed assessment shows that nitrogen fertilizer application is generally based on

habit, rather than scientific guidelines or soil test results. The lack of awareness,
inadequate extension support, and limited access to soil testing services are the primary
causes. The effects are visible in lower productivity, declining soil health, and increased
vulnerability to market volatility. This research proposal aims to investigate the
relationship between different nitrogen levels and maize yield to develop location-
specific, efficient, and sustainable nitrogen management practices.

2. Problems and Justification

2.1 Problem Statement

Maize productivity in Bangladesh is constrained by inefficient and inconsistent use of
nitrogen fertilizer. Farmers often lack adequate knowledge regarding application timing,
dosage, and method. This has resulted in suboptimal yield, economic inefficiency, and
environmental degradation. Research and extension services have not yet provided
sufficient guidance based on local conditions. There is limited field-level data evaluating
how different nitrogen levels affect maize yield in specific agro-ecological zones.
Without scientifically validated, site-specific recommendations, farmers continue to rely
on guesswork or general advice.

This research seeks to answer:

- The optimal nitrogen level for maize cultivation in key growing regions of
Bangladesh .

- How this affects the yield of maize.

- The profitability of maize production in Bangladesh while using nitrogen

fertilizers.

-The environmental trade-offs associated with different nitrogen application

rates.

2.2 Justification of the Study

Although national research institutes have studied nitrogen use in maize, existing
studies often focus on generalized recommendations and are not region-specific. There
is a significant gap in micro-level data that considers local soil, weather, and farmer
practices. The proposed study will address this gap by conducting controlled field trials
across different sites. The outcomes will help formulate precise nitrogen fertilizer
guidelines for farmers and extension workers.

Furthermore, improving nitrogen use efficiency contributes to sustainable agriculture,

environmental conservation, and food security. This study aligns with national goals for
resource optimization and will provide economic analysis to ensure that
recommendations are financially viable for small-holder farmers.

3. Objectives
A well-defined set of objectives is essential to guide the implementation and impact
assessment of this research project. The primary focus is on the application of nitrogen
fertilizer on maize production in Bangladesh. The objectives are designed to address the
production , environmental and technical dimensions of the problem.

3.1 General Objective

To assess the influence of nitrogen levels on maize yield and to determine the most
efficient , sustainable and optimal application practices along with rates of nitrogen
fertilizers for sustainable production of maize in Bangladesh.

3.2 Specific Objectives

This research aims at accomplishing the following direct objectives :

a. To evaluate the effect of different nitrogen application levels on growth and

development of maize.
b. Measuring the influence on maize yield for applying different rate of nitrogen
fertilizer.
c. Identification of the nitrogen dose that provides the best cost-benefit ratio for
maize production.
d. Assessing the environmental implications of nitrogen fertilizers used in maize
fields.
e. Determination of the economic viability of nitrogen fertilizers.
f. To find out and exercise sustainable management practices for nitrogen
fertilizers in maize field.
g. Developing and disseminating practical nitrogen fertilizer guidelines for
Bangladeshi maize farmers.
4. Review of Related Literature
Nitrogen is a critical macronutrient for maize development. Numerous global studies
affirm that nitrogen significantly influences maize biomass, grain development, and
yield. Xu et al. (2006) emphasized nitrogen’s role in chlorophyll production and plant
metabolism.

Globally, nitrogen is known to be the most limiting nutrient for maize. Studies in India,
China, and Africa (Xu et al., 2006; CIMMYT, 2010) have consistently shown strong
correlations between nitrogen application and maize yield. However, excessive use
reduces nitrogen use efficiency and leads to environmental pollution.

In South Asia, including Bangladesh, nitrogen deficiency is a common yield-limiting

factor in cereal crops.

In Bangladesh, Haque et al. (2015) found that nitrogen application up to 120 kg/ha
significantly improved maize yield, but returns diminished beyond that level. BARI has
also reported similar findings, advocating for split application and soil testing to improve
effectiveness. However, these findings are rarely translated into field-level
recommendations accessible to farmers.

The FAO (2018) recommends integrated nutrient management, combining organic and
inorganic inputs with location-specific strategies. This study aligns with global best
practices but aims to fill the data gap specific to Bangladeshi agro-ecological zones by
conducting field trials and assessing local responses.

Studies from Nepal and India have shown that location-specific nutrient management
improves both economic and environmental outcomes. Despite these insights,
Bangladesh lacks sufficient region-specific field trials on nitrogen use in maize. This
research aims to bridge that gap.

5. Methodology

5.1 Conceptual and Theoretical Framework

This study is guided by the theoretical framework of nutrient use efficiency (NUE), which
focuses on maximizing crop output per unit of nutrient input. The conceptual model
assumes that crop yield is directly affected by the quantity and timing of nitrogen
application, interacting with soil properties and weather conditions. The study uses an
experimental approach to examine how nitrogen levels influence key performance
indicators such as plant height, cob length, and grain yield.

5.2 Data Collection

Field trials will be conducted at two sites (Bogura and Dinajpur). A randomized complete
block design (RCBD) will be applied with five treatments:

T1: 0 kg N/ha
T2: 60 kg N/ha
T3: 90 kg N/ha
T4: 120 kg N/ha
T5: 150 kg N/ha

Each treatment will have three replications. The maize variety BARI Maize-9 will be
used. Data collected will include plant height, number of leaves, cob size, grain weight,
total yield, and economic costs. Soil samples will be tested pre- and post-harvest for
nitrogen content.

5.3 Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software (e.g., SPSS or R). Analysis of
variance (ANOVA) will test the significance of differences among treatments. Least
significant difference (LSD) tests will identify the best-performing treatment by
comparing the means. Economic analysis will calculate net return and benefit-cost ratio.
Environmental indicators such as residual soil nitrogen will also be assessed.

6. Expected Output
An expected output of total agro-ecological change will be witnessed if all the
categorical needs are met the extent. Especially, it will bring about a significant change
in yield and economical sustainability of maize production .In regards of the outputs the
achievements are as follows :

A. Optimal Nitrogen Rate Identified:

Clear identification of the most efficient and profitable nitrogen dose for maize
production in the study areas.
 B. Region-Specific Fertilizer Guidelines:
Development of practical and localized nitrogen recommendations for maize
farmers in Bangladesh.

C. Enhanced Farmer Knowledge:

Improved understanding among farmers about the timing, quantity, and method
of nitrogen application.

D. Improved Yield:
Higher maize yields for those adopting improved practices.

E. More Income Generation:

Ensuring higher income of the farmers embracing the guidelines.

F. Environmental Protection:
Reduced nitrogen runoff and better soil fertility management through
responsible fertilizer use.

7. References
Haque, M. E., Rahman, M. M., & Salam, M. A. (2015). Effect of nitrogen levels on yield
and yield components of maize. Bangladesh Agronomy Journal, 18(1), 65–70.

Xu, G., Fan, X., & Miller, A. J. (2006). Plant nitrogen assimilation and use efficiency.
Annual Review of Plant Biology, 57, 117–137.

FAO. (2018). Sustainable Soil Management. Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations.

Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE). (2022). Fertilizer Use Survey in Cereal

Crops. Government of Bangladesh.

8. Monitoring and Evaluation Plan

Progress toward project objectives will be monitored through regular field visits, data
verification, and performance tracking. Key indicators such as plant growth stages,
fertilizer application, crop yield, and farmer engagement will be recorded throughout
the cropping season.

A baseline evaluation will be conducted before planting to collect data on current

farmer practices, soil fertility status, and previous yield levels. A midterm evaluation will
take place at the tasseling stage of maize to assess the condition of crops, nitrogen
application accuracy, and initial yield projections. The final evaluation will be conducted
post-harvest to measure yield outcomes, economic returns, and environmental
indicators like residual soil nitrogen.

In the target regions (Bogura and Dinajpur), the Department of Agricultural Extension
(DAE) maintains regular crop production records, input usage data, and farmer registry
databases. The project's data collection system will complement these existing systems
by introducing plot-level monitoring, real-time data collection, and seasonal
comparisons through digital tools.

The evaluation plan will be executed by a team of qualified agronomists and agricultural
economists with experience in field research and data analysis. The team will be
supported by trained field assistants and local extension agents who have in-depth
knowledge of the area and farming practices.
SL Activities Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
No. 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25
1 Proposal
development
and approval
2 Site selection
and farmer
consultations
3 Soil testing
and baseline
data
collection
4 Procurement
of inputs
(seeds,
fertilizers,
tools)
5 Field layout
and land
preparation
6 Sowing of
maize
7 Application
of nitrogen
treatments
8 Monitoring
and field data
collection
9 Harvesting
and yield
measuremen
t
10 Post-harvest
soil sampling
11 Data analysis
and
economic
evaluation
12 Final
evaluation
and report
writing
13 Disseminatio
n of findings
WORK PLAN

WORK PLAN
SL Activities Jan Feb Mar Apr Ma Jun Jul Aug Sep Oc Nov Dec
No 25 25 25 25 y 25 25 25 25 t 25 25
. 25 25
1 Proposal
development
and approval
2 Site selection
and farmer
consultations
3 Soil testing
and baseline
data
collection
4 Procurement
of inputs
(seeds,
fertilizers,
tools)
5 Field layout
and land
preparation
6 Sowing of
maize
7 Application of
nitrogen
treatments
8 Monitoring
and field data
collection
9 Harvesting
and yield
measurement
10 Post-harvest
soil sampling
11 Data analysis
and economic
evaluation
12 Final
evaluation
and report
writing
13 Disseminatio
n of findings

Budget Details (In BDT)

Sl. No. Item of Cost Cost per Unit Total Cost
Unit (BDT) (BDT)
01 Capital Cost
a Equipment (Soil test kits, 50,000 1 50,000
 weighing scales, etc.)
b Laboratory 15,000 1 15,000
Renovation/Modification (if
needed)
c Training aids (for field staff) 1,500 2 3,000
d Books & Journals (related to 2,000 1 2,000
maize and nitrogen study)
02 Operating Cost
Salary & Benefits (Field staff, data 20,000 4 80,000
analysts)
Honoraria/Subsistence allowance 10,000 3 30,000
(Researchers, trainers)
Fellowship/Stipends (for 5,000 3 15,000
assistants or interns)
Consultancy (Agronomists, Soil 25,000 2 50,000
Scientists)
b Field/Lab. Supplies (Fertilizers, 10,000 3 30,000
seeds, measuring tools)
c Chemicals/Consumables (soil 5,000 2 10,000
testing chemicals)
d Stationary (Notebooks, forms, 2,000 1 2,000
pens, etc.)
e Seminar/Workshop/Training (for 15,000 2 30,000
dissemination, training farmers)
f Travel (field visits, monitoring, 5,000 3 15,000
supervision)
g Repairs & Maintenance 3,000 2 6,000
(equipment maintenance)
h Contingencies: Postage, 5,000 1 5,000
Telephone, Email, TA/DA, etc.
03 Overhead (up to 10% operating 27,300
cost)
04 Total 370,300