Context: The Government of India is actively promoting organic farming through Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER).
Government Initiatives to Promote Organic Farming:
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY):
- Implemented across all states and UTs (except the Northeast) to support organic farming practices.
- Financial assistance of ₹31,500/ha for 3 years, including ₹15,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for organic inputs.
- Encourages value addition, certification, marketing, and capacity building.
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER):
- Dedicated scheme for Northeastern states focusing on farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and organic input support.
- ₹46,500/ha for 3 years, with ₹32,500 for organic inputs, including ₹15,000 as DBT.
- Organic Certification Systems:
- Third-Party Certification (NPOP): Under Ministry of Commerce, ensuring compliance for export-oriented organic produce.
- Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India): A self-regulatory system under Ministry of Agriculture for the domestic market.
- Market & Value Addition Support:
- Financial assistance under PKVY (₹4,500/ha for 3 years) and MOVCDNER (₹10,000/ha for 3 years) for certification, training, and marketing.
- Jaivik Kheti Portal: An online marketplace connecting organic farmers with consumers, with 6.22 lakh farmers registered.
- Awareness & Promotion:
- Seminars, trade fairs, workshops, and organic festivals to enhance the reach of organic produce in domestic and global markets.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
- GS Paper 3 – Agriculture & Food Security
- Role of organic farming in sustainable agriculture and food security.
- Government schemes for rural development and farmer welfare.
- GS Paper 2 – Governance & Policy
- Role of government policies in promoting eco-friendly agriculture.
- Impact of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in agriculture.
