The AGMARK scheme, also known as the Agricultural Marketing Information Network (AGMIN), is an initiative by the Government of India, primarily aimed at ensuring quality control in the production and marketing of agricultural products. The scheme is a voluntary certification system that helps consumers to identify reliable and high-quality products, thereby encouraging fair trade practices, consumer protection, and transparency.
Since its inception in 1937, the AGMARK scheme has undergone several revisions and upgrades to incorporate new products and commodities that come under its scope. The certification process under the scheme involves testing, grading, and labeling of products, conforming to the prescribed standards, and verifying their authenticity.
In this blog, we will delve deeper into the kinds of products and commodities that fall under the purview of the AGMARK scheme and how their certification can benefit the producers and consumers.
1) Food Grains
Under the AGMARK scheme, food grains like wheat, rice, pulses, and cereals can be certified. The scheme specifies the standards for their purity, moisture content, broken grains, foreign matter, and insect infestation, among other parameters. The certification assures the consumers of the quality of grains they are buying, and also helps the producers to get better prices for their produce.
2) Spices
Spices are an important ingredient in Indian cuisine and are also used extensively in international cuisine. The AGMARK scheme has set standards for the quality, flavor, and moisture content of spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric, ginger, pepper, and cardamom, among others. The certification of spices under the scheme can help in promoting their exports and also in safeguarding the health of the consumers.
3) Edible Oils
The AGMARK scheme also covers the certification of edible oils like mustard oil, groundnut oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, and sunflower oil. The scheme mandates testing of the oil for its purity, acidity, and odor, among other parameters. The certification of edible oils can ensure that consumers get pure and unadulterated oils, which are essential for their health.
4) Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are vital components of a balanced diet and are consumed in large quantities across the country. The AGMARK scheme can certify various fruits like apples, bananas, oranges, mangoes, and vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, onions, and cauliflower, among others. The certification of fruits and vegetables under the scheme can help in determining their quality, freshness, and ripeness, thereby enhancing consumer confidence.
5) Dairy Products
Dairy products like milk, butter, ghee, and cheese can also be certified under the AGMARK scheme. The standards for these products include testing for their fat content, protein content, and bacterial count, among other parameters. The certification of dairy products can assure consumers of their quality and also improve the marketing prospects of the producers.
6) Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that has several health benefits and is used widely in many households. Under the AGMARK scheme, honey is certifiable and is tested for purity, moisture content, and flavor, among other parameters. The certification of honey under the scheme can ensure that consumers get pure and unadulterated honey, which is safer for their consumption.
7) Tea
India is the second-largest producer of tea in the world and is an important export commodity. The AGMARK scheme has laid down standards for the grading, flavor, aroma, and appearance of tea. The certification of tea under the scheme can help in establishing its quality and also enhance its export potential.
8) Animal Feed
Animal feed is an essential component of livestock management and is directly linked to their health and productivity. The AGMARK scheme has set standards for the quality, composition, and labeling of animal feed, including poultry feed, cattle feed, fish feed, and pet food. The certification of animal feed can help in promoting their safety and quality, ensuring better production of meat, milk, and eggs.
The certification of agricultural products and commodities under the AGMARK scheme can help in enhancing the competitiveness of farmers and producers, particularly small and marginal ones. The scheme provides them with a level playing field and a credible mechanism to showcase their quality and authenticity. The certification also benefits consumers, as they get access to high-quality products that are safe and free from adulteration.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the AGMARK scheme has emerged as an important quality assurance mechanism for agricultural products and commodities in India. The scheme's scope is vast, covering a wide range of products from food grains to animal feed, and its certification process is rigorous, conforming to international standards. The certification of products under the scheme can ensure fair trade practices, consumer protection, and transparency, thereby contributing to the overall growth and development of the agricultural sector in the country.
Related Services:
More Services: