Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Context: FSSAI and APEDA have developed a new “Unified India Organic” logo to replace the existing India Organic and Jaivik Bharat logos.
This move aims to bring uniformity in the implementation of organic regulations by NPOP and FSSAI. The new Unified India Organic logo is expected to come into force in the near future, and certification bodies will be given a 3-month transition period for implementation. It will distinguish organic products from non-organic communicating adherence to the National Standards for Organic Production.
Currently, the India Organic logo is used on organic products complying with the National Programme for Organic Products (NPOP), while Jaivik Bharat is used on organic products certified by FSSAI.
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. Its 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. |
| 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. | |
| Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojna (PKVY): Promotes organic farming. |
Source: TH
