The 8th edition of National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) was launched in New Delhi, highlighting India’s potential in organic farming. Union Commerce and Industry Minister announced that exports from organic farming could reach ₹20,000 crore in the next three years.
Key features of 8th edition of National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)
- Simple certification process: Organic producer groups given legal recognition in place of System of Internal Control (ICS).
Market support: ICS of organic producer groups will have to ensure:
- Procurement of entire organic produce.
- Establish market linkages for farmers.
- Faster land conversion: Conversion period to organic farming reduced to three years under special circumstances.
Portals launched during the event
NPOP Portal: Simplifies and streamlines the operations of stakeholders.
- Organic Promotion Portal: Connects farmers to global buyers.
- TraceNet 2.0: Improves traceability.
- Revamped APEDA Portal: Provides better experience for users.
Main objective of organic farming
- The main objective of organic farming is to prioritize the health of soil, ecosystems, and people. It avoids synthetic chemicals and focuses on natural processes.
- It combines ecosystems, biodiversity and tradition, innovation and science.
- Promotes environmental benefits and equitable relationships.
- Generally seeks to avoid foreign substances, but certification systems allow the use of biological, organic and mineral supplements when needed.
Status of Organic Farming
- India ranks second in the world in terms of organic agricultural land.
- Sikkim: World’s first fully organic state.
- Northeast India: Organic farming is traditionally practiced and the use of chemical fertilizers is low.
- India has the world’s largest number of organic producing farmers, numbering 2.3 million.
- By 2023-24, about 4.5 million hectares (2.5% of total agricultural land) area is under organic certification.
Top four organic farming states of India
- Madhya Pradesh (26%)
- Maharashtra (22%)
- Gujarat (15%)
- Rajasthan (13%)
These four states together account for 76% of India’s total organic farming area.
Major organic products of India
- Major export products include linseed, sesame, soybean, tea, medicinal plants, rice, and pulses.
- India is the global leader in organic cotton production.
National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP):
- Launched: in 2001.
- Implemented by: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Main objectives
- Certification, focusing on organic production standards.
- Promotion of organic farming.
- Enhance India’s global competitiveness.
- International recognition: National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) standards are recognized by the European Commission and Switzerland for production and certification, making Indian organic products accepted in the international market.
Achievements of National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)
- Global ranking: India ranks first in organic producers and second in organic agricultural land.
- Certified area: Total certified area to reach 3 million hectares by 2023-24, with Madhya Pradesh leading, followed by Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
- Organic exports: Currently ₹4,007.91 crore, projected to reach ₹20,000 crore in three years.