Learn the importance of organic certification in India, including NPOP and PGS systems, application steps, cost, duration, and how to sell certified produce.
Introduction: Why Organic Certification Matters More Than Ever
As Indian consumers increasingly demand healthy, chemical-free food, the need for organic certification has become critical. Certification is not just about logos and seals—it’s about trust, compliance, and access to premium markets.
Whether you’re a small farmer or a large group, this detailed guide will help you understand:
Why certification is necessary
Difference between NPOP and PGS systems
Step-by-step process to apply
Cost, documentation, and timelines
How to sell your certified produce in India and abroad
Let’s demystify the organic certification journey for Indian farmers.
1. Why Certification is Important?
A. Builds Consumer Trust
In markets flooded with "natural" or "residue-free" claims, certified organic produce stands out with verified credentials. Buyers want proof.
B. Access to Premium Prices
Certified organic products sell at 20%–100% higher prices in both domestic and export markets.
C. Compliance with Government & Export Rules
To sell internationally, certification under NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production) is mandatory.
D. Brand & Label Protection
Using terms like “organic” legally requires certification in India.
“Organic certification turns farmer trust into buyer confidence.”
2. Overview of NPOP & Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)
India has two recognized systems for organic certification:
A. NPOP – National Programme for Organic Production
Launched by: Ministry of Commerce & APEDA
Used for: Export, domestic large-scale marketing
Key Features:
Third-party certification by approved bodies (e.g. ECOCERT, SGS)
Strict inspection & documentation
India Organic logo
Required for export to EU, USA, etc.
B. PGS – Participatory Guarantee System
Launched by: Ministry of Agriculture (NCOF)
Used for: Domestic/local markets, small farmers
Key Features:
Peer group verification
Community-based self-certification
PGS-India Green logo
No middlemen, farmer groups handle certification
C. Key Differences Between NPOP and PGS
CriteriaNPOPPGS-India
Certification Body3rd party agenciesLocal farmer group
Target MarketExport + large domesticLocal/regional
Cost₹15,000–₹30,000/year₹500–₹2,000/year
InspectionExternal inspectorsPeer group review
LogoIndia OrganicPGS-India Green
Tip: Small groups and NGOs often start with PGS before moving to NPOP.
.png "Comparison of NPOP and PGS Certification Systems")
3. Step-by-Step Certification Process
Whether you choose PGS or NPOP, follow these structured steps.
A. Steps for NPOP Certification
1. Choose a Certification Agency
Approved list on apeda.gov.in
Examples: ECOCERT, INDOCERT, SGS, OneCert
2. Fill Application + Submit Farm Map
Mention all details: crop type, area, livestock (if any)
3. Transition Period Begins (Minimum 2 Years)
Must follow organic practices
Records must be maintained
No synthetic inputs allowed
4. Inspection by Certifying Agency
Field visit and sample collection
Check records: spray logs, compost logs, panchgavya use
5. Compliance Report + Certification
Get the “India Organic” logo + certification number
Validity: 1 year (renewal required annually)
B. Steps for PGS-India Certification
1. Join a Local PGS Group
Contact nearest NCOF or Krishi Vigyan Kendra
2. Training on Organic Practices
Composting, cow-based inputs, crop rotation
3. Declaration Form & Peer Review
4–5 farmers inspect each other's fields
4. Certification by Local Group
Get PGS certificate + PGS-India Green logo
Uploaded to www.pgsindia-ncof.gov.in
.png "Step-by-Step Organic Certification Process (NPOP & PGS)")
4. Cost & Time Involved
A. Cost of Certification
ComponentNPOP (3rd Party)PGS (Self-Group)
Application Fee₹2,000–₹5,000₹200–₹500
Inspection Charges₹8,000–₹15,000Nil (peer review)
Lab Testing (if any)₹3,000–₹5,000Optional
Annual Renewal₹5,000–₹8,000₹500–₹1,000
Total Cost/Year₹15,000–₹30,000₹500–₹2,000
Note: Many states offer subsidies up to 75% for small/marginal farmers under schemes like PKVY.
B. Duration
NPOP Transition: 2–3 years depending on land history
PGS-India: 1–2 years, often quicker with farmer groups
.png "Cost and Duration of Organic Certification")
5. How to Sell Certified Organic Produce
A. Local Farmers’ Markets
Popular in metro cities: Delhi Haat, Pune Organic Bazaar, Chennai Eco-Market
Ideal for PGS-certified farmers
B. Organic Retail Chains
Examples: Organic India, Nature’s Basket, 24 Mantra Organic, Fabindia Organic
Requires NPOP certification + lab tests
C. Online Platforms
Farm2Home, BigBasket Organic, Amazon India Organic
Ensure labeling and barcodes match certification
D. Government Mandis & Support Schemes
Jaivik India Portal: National database of organic producers
APEDA Export Support: Market linkage + export registration
Agri Export Zones (AEZ): For certified produce clusters (e.g. turmeric in Erode)
E. Tips to Boost Sales
Highlight certification logo on packaging
Offer samples to urban retail chains
Share social media proof of farm practices
Partner with organic co-operatives
“Certified farmers don’t chase buyers. Buyers come looking for them.”
.png "How to Market & Sell Certified Organic Produce")
Conclusion: Certification = Opportunity
Organic certification may seem like paperwork and inspections, but it unlocks:
✅ Trust from health-conscious buyers
✅ Higher income from premium pricing
✅ Entry to urban, retail, and international markets
✅ Access to organic subsidies and schemes
Start with:
Understanding PGS vs NPOP
Keeping basic farm records
Joining a certification group or contacting APEDA
“Organic farming starts in the field. Organic selling starts with certification.”
Resources for Organic Certification
APEDA NPOP Official Website
🔗 https://apeda.gov.in/apedawebsite/organic/index.htmPGS India – NCOF Website
🔗 https://pgsindia-ncof.gov.in
