Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)
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Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) -India Certification – Empowering Organic Communities
Sustainable Stewardship Private Limited is a proud Regional Council authorized by National Centre for Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF) for PGS-India (Participatory Guarantee System – India) Certification, working towards strengthening India’s organic movement at the grassroots level.
As an authorized Regional Council under National Centre for Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF), Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, SSPL actively supports farmers, farmer groups, and stakeholders in adopting participatory organic certification that is transparent, affordable, and community-driven.
We enable organic growers by:
- Facilitating registration and certification of PGS-India farmer groups
- Providing training, guidance, and continuous capacity building
- Ensuring robust peer appraisal, traceability, and compliance systems
- Issuing and managing PGS-India certificates in line with national guidelines
Through our dedicated efforts, Sustainable Stewardship Private Limited helps small and marginal farmers gain credible organic recognition, improve market access, and build consumer trust—while preserving the core values of sustainability, transparency, and mutual accountability.
With Sustainable Stewardship Private Limited as your PGS-India Regional Council partner, organic certification becomes accessible, reliable, and farmer-centric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – PGS-India
1. What is PGS-India?
PGS-India (Participatory Guarantee System – India) is a farmer-centric organic certification system promoted by the Government of India. It is based on participation, mutual trust, transparency, and peer verification among farmers.
2. What are the benefits of PGS-India certification?
- Low-cost organic certification
- Suitable for small and marginal farmers
- Recognition under Government of India
- Improved market access and consumer trust
3. Who issues PGS-India certificates?
PGS-India certificates are issued through authorized Regional Councils, such as Sustainable Stewardship Private Limited, as per National Centre for Organic and Natural Farming (NCONF) guidelines.
4. What is the validity of PGS-India certification?
PGS-India certification is generally valid for one year and must be renewed annually based on compliance and peer appraisal.
5. What is peer appraisal in PGS-India?
Peer appraisal means farmers inspect and verify each other’s farms within the group to ensure compliance with organic standards.
6. Can PGS-India certified produce be sold in the market?
Yes. PGS-India certified produce can be sold in domestic markets with proper labeling as per guidelines.
7. Is PGS-India valid for export?
No. PGS-India certification is meant for the domestic market only. For export, third-party certification is required.
8. How long does it take to get PGS-India certification?
The process generally takes one to three years, depending on previous farming practices and compliance with organic standards.
9. How can farmers register under PGS-India through Sustainable Stewardship Private Limited?
Farmers can contact Sustainable Stewardship Private Limited, an authorized Regional Council, for group formation, registration, training, and certification support.
For guidance on PGS-India registration and certification, please contact us at info@sustainablestewardship.net
