AGMARK (Agriculture Mark) is a certification mark that assures the quality of agricultural products in India. 🌱 It acts as a third-party guarantee for products produced and consumed in the country.
History of AGMARK 📜
- Originated in 1934 when Archibald MacDonald Livingstone, Agricultural and Marketing Advisor to the Government of India, proposed its implementation.
- It was introduced to protect local growers and prevent exploitation by dealers.
Objective of AGMARK Grading Scheme 🎯
To ensure unadulterated, high-quality agricultural products for consumers. Grading benefits both domestic and export markets.
Features of AGMARK 🔍
- Issued By: Directorate of Marketing and Inspection under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
- Commodities Covered: Quality standards for 200+ products, including pulses, cereals, essential oils, and semi-processed foods like vermicelli.
- Head Office: Faridabad 🏢
- Laboratories:
- Central AGMARK Lab in Nagpur 🧪
- 11 state-owned AGMARK labs in nodal cities.
- Legal Basis: Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act of 1937 (amended in 1986).
- Application Process: Online via NIC platform 💻.
- Standards Reference:
- Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Codex Alimentarius Commission.
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
- Mandatory Certification: Edible vegetable oils and fat spreads (as per FSSAI regulations).
Benefits of AGMARK 🌟
- Farmers Benefit: Increased state subsidies for certified products.
- Market Boost: Certified products gain better market acceptance.
- Quality Assurance: Statutory compliance ensures product quality.
Difference Between FSSAI and AGMARK ⚖️
| Aspect | FSSAI | AGMARK |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | Compulsory ✅ | Voluntary (except some cases) |
| Scope | Covers all food products | Only agricultural products 🌾 |
| Legal Basis | Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 | Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937 |
Other Certification Marks in India 🇮🇳
- ISI Mark: Electrical products 🔌
- BIS Mark: Gold ornaments 💍
- FPO Mark: Fruit processed products 🍎
- Ecomark: Eco-friendly products 🌿
