Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) PGS- India Green | PGS- India Organic|Jaivik Bharat
What is Certificate of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)?
The Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) of India is a certification system for organic products that is aimed at ensuring the authenticity and quality of organic farming practices. It is a locally focused, decentralized system where farmers participate in the certification process, ensuring that the products meet organic standards. PGS India promotes organic farming through community participation, empowering farmers to build trust among consumers by directly linking them with the organic farmers. This certification system provides an alternative to the more formal certification procedures, enabling smaller producers and local farmers to get recognized for their organic practices without the heavy costs and bureaucracy associated with conventional organic certification systems. PGS India focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, promoting soil health, reducing chemical input usage, and fostering biodiversity. It is recognized by the Government of India and provides farmers with a certification that can be used to market their organic products to domestic and international consumers.
Benefits of a Certificate of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)
Low-Cost Certification
PGS is either free or involves minimal cost, making it accessible for small and marginal farmers.
Government Recognition
It is officially recognized by the Government of India, adding credibility and authenticity to the organic produce.
Market Access
Certified farmers can sell their organic products in local and domestic markets with the PGS Organic label.
Premium Pricing
Organic products certified under PGS often command higher prices, improving farmers’ income.
Ideal for Small Farmers
The system is specifically designed for small and local farmers who may not afford third-party certification.
Promotes Organic Farming
Encourages eco-friendly, chemical-free farming practices that improve soil health and biodiversity.
Peer Review System
Certification is done through group verification and peer reviews, ensuring transparency and community trust.
Simplified Procedures
Less paperwork and easier compliance compared to conventional certification systems.
Community Participation
Farmers form groups and support each other, leading to knowledge-sharing and stronger community bonds.
Who can apply for Certificate of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)?
Individual organic farmers
Farmer groups
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Cooperative societies
Sustainability Organizations
CSR Initiatives
Documents Required for Certificate of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of Certificate of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain an accreditation body of success in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Time Frame
Task
Process
Day 1
GAP Analysis
Certification Body
Selection
Cost Estimates
- Finding the GAP between existing system related to (PGS) Certificate requirements
- Selecting the appropriate certification Body
- Based on the scope of your business & certification Body you choose
Week 1
Developing Documents
- Management System Manual, Management System Procedures, Policy, Objectives, Forms etc.
- Review of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Week 4
Implementing Management System
- (PGS) Certificate Awareness training for the top management and staff
- Implementing a well-documented management system throughout the organization
Week 8
Internal Audit
MRM
CAPA
- Internal audits identifying nonconformities related to (PGS) Certificate requirements
- Management Review Meetings
- Corrective and Preventive Action plan for nonconformities
Week 10
Self Certification/NoBo
Audit
N-C Closing
- Shamkris acts on your behalf and assists you in the third-party audit
- Closing of any nonconformities identified by the certification Body
Week 12
Self Certification/NoBo
- Certificates issued under have a validity period as
- Initial Certification: Valid for 1 year from the date of qualification.
- Surveillance Audits yearly
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
- Support of Yearly documentation for audit
Who can issue the Certificate of Participatory Guarantee System (PGS)
FAQ
It is a government-recognized certification for organic farming based on participation, peer reviews, and trust.
Individual farmers, farmer groups, FPOs, NGOs, SHGs, and cooperatives engaged in organic farming.
Yes, it is free or very low-cost, especially compared to third-party organic certification systems.
Yes, it is recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
All organically grown crops including grains, fruits, vegetables, pulses, and more.
PGS is mainly for the domestic market. For exports, third-party certification under NPOP is generally required.
Typically, valid for one year, with annual renewal and review.
Through group-based peer reviews and documentation as per PGS guidelines.
At least 5 farmers are needed to register as a PGS group.