The Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, National Centre of Organic Farming and F.A.O have undertaken a technical co-operation programme for promotion of organic agriculture. One of the important components of this programme was to explore and develop PGS as a means of Organic Guarantee for products produced and consume within India. The first PGS model for India was developed based on existing models around the world. It specially borrowed and built on the strengths of existing successful PGS programs in Brazil, New -Zealand and United States.
PGS India system is based on participation, shared vision, transparency and trust.
PGS India programme provides two types of certificates:
In PGS system local Groups is the main functional unit responsible for all activities, inspections and decision making.
Regional Council: Help local group in capacity building and decision endorsement.
Zonal Council: Purely monitoring surveillance unit with no role in decision making.
PGS Secretariat: The custodian of data, policy making and programme operational unit.
Some important points on PGS Organic: