DAT

Thermal power plants use pulverized coal as a fuel source to generate power by obtaining fly ash as a by-product. Its generation in the country has increased from 40 Million ton (MT)/yr (1994) to about 235 MT/yr (2013). It is projected to be 325 MT/yr (2016-17), 500 MT/yr (2021-22) and 1000 MT/yr (2031-32). If it is not used, then it would demand large area of land for ash ponds and would pose a threat for air and water pollution. Fly ash utilization has increased from 1 MT/yr during 1994 to 130 MT/year during 2013, primarily as an outcome of concerted efforts under Fly Ash Mission-India. In the present study, it was shown that utilization of fly-ash as a carrier in bio-fertilizer formulations emerged as safe and effective alternatives. Use of fly-ash as a carrier in these formulations is an effective way of utilization of problematic fly-ash waste in a useful manner. Fly ash has similar physicochemical properties with soil. Fly ash addition to the soil in different doses improves photosynthetic pigments concentration beneficial for a wheat plant. We can conclude that though fly ash is a waste of concern but now has become a boon for sustainable agriculture