India has emerged as one of the largest potential markets for organic food consumption globally with growing awareness towards healthy food, surging income levels, and shifts in consumer behavior. The organic food market is growing at a rate of 14 percent and a growth rate of 20 percent in the next five years is envisaged. India exports of organic products increased by over 17 percent between 2015-16 and 2016-17.  Organic Farming by Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Village Producer Organizations (VPOs) in large clusters preferably of 1000 hectares each will be promoted from 2018. Further Women’s Self Help groups will also be encouraged to take up organic agriculture in clusters under the National Rural Livelihood Programme. While we remain well endowed in terms of natural resources, human capital, and economic feasibility, a significant presence in the world organic market for India necessitates a timely redressal of myriad challenges right from building capacities of farmers in organic farming system, establishment of markets with export potential and certification and standardization in consonance with domestic and international world markets.

With a view to facilitating and extending support to the organic food growers, wholesalers, processors, certifying bodies, marketing agencies, exporters, and importers, an apex organization the “Confederation of Organic Food Producers and Marketing Agencies (Organic Kheti)” has been confirmed.

Indian agriculture sector accounts for 17% of India’s gross domestic product and engages 50% of the country’s workforce. The current government has sought to launch the next green revolution with a renewed focus on rural economy and agriculture with an allocation of INR 14.34 trillion in the Union Budget 2018. With an upgrade for agricultural markets, linking of habitations with rural markets, support to the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, new funds for fisheries and animal husbandry, and a boost to food processing and agri logistics through Operation Green, new Bamboo Mission and Kisan Credit cards, agronomy of India is expected to reach new heights.