Synergistic Defence: Electron Beam Irradiated Chitosan and Bacillus subtilis sp. in Combating Chickpea Wilt for sustainable agriculture

Background In response to the pressing global demand for sustainable management practices against Fusarium wilt, a devastating disease in chickpeas, we present a groundbreaking approach: the fusion of nanotechnology with bio-control agents. By integrating nanotechnology with Bacillus subtilis as bio-control agents, we offer a cutting-edge strategy for mitigating wilt incidence while fostering agricultural sustainability. The application of irradiated chitosan at 150 ppm enhances the induction of antioxidant metabolites, thereby promoting the growth and yield of chickpeas. Results The antifungal activity of irradiated chitosan and Bacillus sp. resulted in the induction of different antifungal metabolites that augmented an immunomodulating role inhibiting the growth of the pathogen. As compared to the non-treated (37.3%) a lower wilt occurrence (8.34%), and 50.52% higher productivity was noticed in treated chickpeas. This dual strategy not only boosts plant growth and yield but also represents an innovative phytosanitary measure against Fusarium wilt and a sustainable approach to managing climate change adversities in chickpeas. Conclusions This approach of harnessing the strength of nano-biotechnology, holds promise for reducing reliance on pesticides, overuse of chemical fertilizers, thereby promoting eco-friendly and economically viable chickpea production practices mitigating climate change.