India Organic
India Organic is a certification mark and regulatory framework for organic agricultural products in India. It is governed by the National Program for Organic Production (NPOP), which is implemented by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
The India Organic certification mark ensures that agricultural products labeled as organic have been produced and processed according to the standards set by the NPOP. These standards are in line with international organic standards, such as those established by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM).
To obtain India Organic certification, farmers and food processors must comply with a set of requirements that cover various aspects of organic production, including:
Organic Farming Practices: Farmers must follow organic farming methods that promote soil health, biodiversity conservation, and the avoidance of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Documentation and Record Keeping: Detailed records of farming practices, inputs used, and crop management must be maintained to ensure traceability and compliance with organic standards.
Inspection and Certification: Farms and processing units are subjected to regular inspections by accredited certification bodies to verify compliance with organic standards. Certification is issued based on successful inspections.
Segregation and Traceability: Organic products must be segregated from non-organic products throughout the production, processing, and packaging stages to avoid contamination and maintain traceability.
Labeling and Packaging: Organic products must be labeled with the India Organic logo and carry accurate information about the certification status, ensuring transparency for consumers.
The India Organic certification is recognized both nationally and internationally. It enables farmers and food processors to access domestic and international markets for organic products by assuring consumers of the organic integrity of their products. The certification also helps in maintaining the quality and safety of organic products and contributes to the growth of the organic farming sector in India.
Consumers looking for organic products can identify India Organic-certified products by the presence of the India Organic logo on packaging. This logo provides assurance that the product has undergone the necessary checks and complies with the prescribed organic standards.
To obtain detailed and up-to-date information on the India Organic certification process, it is recommended to refer to the official guidelines and regulations provided by APEDA or consult with accredited certification bodies authorized to issue India Organic certifications.