Development of technologies that improve food productivity without any adverse impact on the ecosystem
is the need of hour. In this context, development of controlled delivery systems for slow and sustained
release of agrochemicals or genetic materials is crucial. Chitosan has emerged as a valuable carrier
for controlled delivery of agrochemicals and genetic materials because of its proven biocompatibility,
biodegradability, non-toxicity, and adsorption abilities. The major advantages of encapsulating agrochemicals
and genetic material in a chitosan matrix include its ability to function as a protective reservoir
for the active ingredients, protecting the ingredients from the surrounding environment while they are
in the chitosan domain, and then controlling their release, allowing them to serve as efficient gene delivery
systems for plant transformation or controlled release of pesticides. Despite the great progress in
the use of chitosan in the area of medical and pharmaceutical sciences, there is still a wide knowledge
gap regarding the potential application of chitosan for encapsulation of active ingredients in agriculture.
Hence, the present article describes the current status of chitosan nanoparticle-based delivery systems
in agriculture, and to highlight challenges that need to be overcome.