The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in a landmark move, has established a specialized division dedicated to the promotion of organic exports. This new division is set to become the central hub for coordinating and boosting India’s burgeoning organic export potential.
In an effort to strengthen the organic sector in Uttarakhand, APEDA has developed a detailed strategy. This strategy aims to improve farming techniques, streamline certification processes, and identify key export products. The overarching goal is to position Uttarakhand as a major contributor to the global organic market.
APEDA is also focusing on Sikkim, India’s first fully organic state, by creating a strategic roadmap to expand its export offerings and reinforce sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative is designed to leverage Sikkim’s unique advantages in organic farming, enhancing its visibility and competitiveness in international markets.
The efforts in Uttarakhand and Sikkim are just the beginning of APEDA’s broader vision, which seeks to replicate these models across other Indian states. The goal is to establish a network of robust organic export hubs nationwide, tapping into regions with significant organic farming potential.
A key component of this initiative is the upcoming revision of the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) guidelines. These updates are intended to align with leading global standards, such as the EU Regulation, and to support ongoing and future Mutual Recognition Agreements. A major focus of the NPOP revamp is the modernization of its IT infrastructure, which aims to enhance the oversight of Certification Bodies and their certified operators. This modernized system will include features like geo-tagging of farms and geo-location tracking of inspection visits, ensuring more effective and transparent certification processes.
These developments mark a significant step in APEDA’s mission to elevate India’s organic exports, positioning the country as a key player in the global organic market. Through these initiatives, APEDA is not only promoting sustainable agricultural practices but also opening new international markets for Indian organic products.
