Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: HBL
Context: A European Union (EU) audit has found “many weaknesses” in the certification of Indian organic products for exports to the EU.
Issues highlighted:
- Farmers of various organic producer groups (PGs) lacked knowledge of organic farming.
- Infringement of NPOP norms, inadequate supervision and implementation of controls.
Regulator of Organic Products:
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) (under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) regulates the manufacture, distribution, sale or import of Organic products through the Food Safety and Standards (Organic Foods) Regulations, 2017 (under FSSA 2006).
Certification of Organic products:
| Certification | Description |
| Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) | Implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Ensures organic product production adheres to quality standards. Does not require third-party certification agencies. Certification is carried out by local groups consisting of producers and consumers and is based on trust. Involves a documented logo or statement as proof of certification. |
| National Programme on Organic Production (NPOP) | Implemented by APEDA, under the Ministry of Commerce & Industries. Regulates organic farming certification. Involves accreditation of Certification Bodies. Sets standards for organic production. Promotes organic farming and marketing. It’s Standards have been recognized by the EU, Switzerland, and the US. |
| Other Programs for Organic Production | NMSA (National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture): Promotes sustainable agriculture, including organic production. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY): Promotes organic farming. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North East Region (MOVCD-NER): Supports the development of organic value chains in the North East region of India. |
