Ready to Join the Organic Farming Wave? Here's Your Guide to Getting Organic Certification in India

Are you looking to start an organic product business? One of the first things you’ll have to do in order to join the organic farming wave is to get your business certified so that you can sell your products under the label of ‘organic’. You’ll have to be able to convince the regulatory bodies that your products are indeed organic and meet the food safety standards of the country. It has to be in line with the regulations set by the regulatory bodies. We’ve given a brief guideline as to what you will be required to do in order to get organic certification in India.

In India, organic certification processes and standards are regulated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), which operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. APEDA is responsible for the promotion and development of organic farming and the export of organic products from India.

The organic certification process in India involves several steps and requirements. Here is an overview of the process:

• Farm Registration: Farmers interested in obtaining organic certification must first register their farms with a recognized certification agency. They need to provide details about the land, crops, and cultivation practices.

• Inspection: Once the farm is registered, an inspection is conducted by the certification agency. Trained inspectors visit the farm to verify that organic farming practices are being followed, including the non-use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The inspector also checks the records and documentation maintained by the farmer.

• Certification Application: After a successful inspection, the farmer submits a certification application to the certification agency. The application includes details about the farm, crops, farming practices, and the organic inputs used.

• Documentation: The farmer needs to maintain detailed records and documentation related to the cultivation practices, including seed sourcing, crop rotation, pest management, and the use of organic inputs such as compost or manure.

• Review and Decision: The certification agency reviews the application, documentation, and inspection report. If everything is found to be in compliance with organic standards, the farmer is granted organic certification.

• Certification Period and Renewal: Organic certification is typically valid for a specific period, usually one year. The farmer needs to renew the certification by going through the inspection and application process again.

The organic standards in India are in line with the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP), which is the standard for organic products in the country. The NPOP specifies the requirements for organic production, handling, and labeling. It prohibits the use of synthetic chemicals, GMOs, and irradiation in organic farming. It also emphasizes the importance of soil fertility, crop rotation, pest management, and sustainable agricultural practices.