India boasts immense potential in the organic food sector. Ranked second globally in terms of organic agricultural land and first in the total number of producers (as per 2024 FIBL & IFOAM Year Book), the country is actively promoting organic farming through the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP). This program facilitates certification bodies, establishes organic production standards, and promotes both organic farming and marketing. NPOP standards are recognized by the European Commission and Switzerland for unprocessed plant products, allowing certified Indian organic products easier access to these import markets.
As of March 31, 2024, a total of 7.3 million hectares are under organic certification in India, with Madhya Pradesh leading the pack in terms of area covered. This area includes both cultivable land (over 44.7 million hectares) and wild harvest collection areas (over 28.5 million hectares). Organic production in India stands at around 3.6 million metric tons (MT) annually, encompassing a diverse range of products like oilseeds, fiber, sugarcane, cereals & millets, cotton, pulses, medicinal plants, tea, coffee, fruits, spices, vegetables, and processed foods. Maharashtra leads production, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Gujarat. Interestingly, fiber crops are the largest organic product category, followed by oilseeds, sugar crops, cereals & millets, medicinal plants, spices, fruits & vegetables, pulses, and tea & coffee.
Export is a significant aspect of the Indian organic market with a total volume of 261,029 MT in 2023-24, generating revenue of approximately INR 4007.91 crore (USD 494.80 million). These organic products are exported to various countries including the USA, European Union, Canada, United Kingdom, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Vietnam, Australia, Thailand, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea.
The Landscape of Organic Certification
There are two main types of organic certifications in India:
- National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP): This is the Indian standard, meeting the requirements set by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
- NOP/Others (US/Global Standards): These certifications meet the standards of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or other international bodies. NOP certification is essential for exporting organic products.
However, the de-recognition of India’s NPOP certification by the USDA in 2021 has significantly impacted the Indian organic sector. While it has presented challenges for exporters, it has also opened up opportunities for growth and development. Indian organic producers must now comply with USDA organic standards and obtain certification from a USDA-accredited certifier to export to the US. APEDA is working to strengthen NPOP and support Indian organic exporters during this transition.
Key Crops and Players
Despite these challenges, the organic market in India is flourishing. Leading the charge are a growing number of organic farms and processors across the country. You can access a comprehensive list of these entities, along with the certified crops they produce, on portals like Jaivik Bharat (FSSAI) and the USDA National Organic Program website.
Some of the most popular organic crops in India include:
The Growing Demand for Organic and Sustainability
Several key trends are driving the growth of the organic food market in India:
- Increased awareness: Consumers are becoming more conscious of the health benefits and environmental impact of their food choices.
- Urbanization and rising disposable income: Rising living standards in urban areas have created a market for premium and healthy food options.
- Government initiatives: Various government schemes promote organic farming and support the development of the organic sector.
The Environmental Case for Organic
According to WMO GAW Network, Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, contributes significantly to global warming. Approximately 16% of the total radiative forcing caused by long-lived greenhouse gases (LLGHGs) is attributed to methane emissions. While natural sources like wetlands and termites account for about 40% of these emissions, human activities such as livestock farming (particularly ruminants), rice cultivation, fossil fuel extraction, landfills, wastewater treatment, and biomass burning contribute to the remaining 60%.
Beyond the health benefits, organic food production offers a significant environmental advantage. Traditional agriculture often relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Here’s a comparison of the environmental impact of conventional and organic farming practices for some key crops:
These numbers show the substantial potential for reducing India’s agricultural footprint through widespread organic farming.
Uniqueness and Future Challenges
India already boasts one of the most sustainable food systems globally, with a relatively low GHG footprint compared to other major agricultural producers. Embracing organic farming practices has the potential to further solidify this position.
Two additional innovations should be considered for inclusion in organic certification:
- Hydroponics and Aeroponics: These techniques use minimal water and land and offer the potential for urban farming, reducing transportation emissions.
Expanding organic certification to encompass these sustainable practices can help India become a global leader in the organic food market while ensuring food security and environmental responsibility.
Organic Food: A Sustainable Pathway for India
- Farmers: Healthier soils, reduced exposure to harmful chemicals, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices.
- Workers: Protection from the hazards associated with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
- Climate: Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhanced carbon sequestration through organic farming methods.
- Environment: Improved biodiversity, water conservation, and reduced pollution.
The Road Ahead: Organic and Vegetarian Diets for a Sustainable Future
While organic certification needs streamlining and expansion, the future of the Indian organic market is bright. By promoting awareness, improving certification systems, and considering innovative sustainable farming practices, India can unlock the immense potential of organic food production.
A significant contributing factor to reducing GHG emissions in the food sector lies not just in the production methods, but also in dietary choices. A shift towards organic and vegetarian diets, with a focus on locally produced seasonal fruits and vegetables, can further reduce the environmental impact of our food system.
By embracing organic practices and promoting sustainable food choices, India can ensure a healthier future for its citizens and the planet.
About the Author
Kishore Kumar R. is a seasoned market researcher at Firstmr Business Analytics with a unique background, ranging from traditional mushroom farming to culinary partnerships with ITC chefs and sports nutrition formulation. With over six years of expertise in the Indian and global food ingredients markets—including dairy, protein, savory ingredients, fibers, emulsifiers, starches, and plant-based foods—he has led multiple product development projects and innovation hackathons, delivering successful outcomes for clients in the food industry. For inquiries, reach out at kishore@firstmr.com.