🌱Organic Farming in India: Government Schemes, Market & Profitability (2025 Guide)

🌼 What is Organic Farming?

Organic farming is a holistic approach to agriculture that nurtures soil health, enhances biodiversity, and restores ecological balance. It avoids synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, and instead relies on natural practices and inputs like compost, green manure, and biological pest control.

✅ Key Features of Organic Farming:

• No chemical fertilizers or pesticides
• Focus on crop rotation, compost, and animal manure
• Higher soil fertility and ecological diversity
• Certified by bodies like NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production)

🇮🇳 Government Schemes Supporting Organic Farming (2025)

The Indian government has launched several initiatives to promote organic farming through financial support, certification, and market development. These schemes aim to empower farmers, enhance soil health, and strengthen sustainable agriculture.

📝 Key Government Schemes:

• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): ₹50,000 per hectare for 3 years, supporting cluster-based organic farming with training, inputs, and marketing.
• Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER): Focuses on 8 NE states with end-to-end support from inputs to market access.
• National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Promotes soil health management using bio-fertilizers and compost.
• Capital Investment Subsidy Scheme (CISS): Provides up to 33% subsidy for establishing organic input production units.
• Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India): A free, community-based certification system ideal for small and marginal farmers.

📈 Organic Farming Market in India (2025 Trends)

India's organic food market is poised for impressive growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20–25%. By 2026, the market is expected to exceed ₹15,000 Crores, driven by increasing consumer demand, export opportunities, and the rise of e-commerce platforms catering to health-conscious buyers. The shift toward sustainable and chemical-free agriculture is reshaping India's farming practices and creating profitable opportunities for organic farmers.

📝 Key Factors Driving the Growth of the Organic Farming Market in India:

• Increased Consumer Demand for Chemical-Free Food: As more people become health-conscious, the demand for organic produce, free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, is rapidly increasing across urban and rural markets.
• Growing Export Opportunities for Organic Products: India’s organic exports to key markets like the EU, US, and the Middle East are on the rise. Popular organic crops such as Basmati rice, pulses, turmeric, and mangoes are in high demand internationally, offering Indian farmers lucrative export prospects.
• Growth of E-commerce Platforms in Health Food Segment: Online platforms like Amazon, Organic India, and 24 Mantra Organic are expanding the availability of organic food products. The convenience of online shopping is helping consumers access organic produce, making it a strong growth driver for the market.

🌍 Top Organic Export Crops from India:

• Basmati Rice
• Pulses & Oilseeds
• Spices: Turmeric, Ginger, and Chili
• Fruits: Mangoes, Bananas, Apples
• Herbal Products

🛒 Top Organic Food Platforms in India

As the demand for organic food rises in India, several online platforms are making it easier for consumers to access high-quality, certified organic produce. These e-commerce platforms not only offer a wide range of organic food products but also ensure that they meet the standards for health-conscious consumers. Below are some of the leading organic food platforms in India that are helping shape the market:

• Organic India: A pioneer in organic food production, Organic India offers a wide range of organic products including teas, spices, and supplements, focusing on sustainability and ethical sourcing.
• 24 Mantra Organic: One of the most trusted names in organic food, 24 Mantra Organic offers a variety of products ranging from grains, pulses, and spices to snacks, all certified under global organic standards.
• Natureland Organics: Specializing in organic grains, fruits, vegetables, and health products, Natureland Organics provides farm-to-fork solutions with a commitment to quality and sustainability.
• Farm2Kitchen: Offering fresh, farm-sourced organic produce, Farm2Kitchen connects consumers with local organic farms, delivering fresh fruits, vegetables, and grocery items directly to their doorstep.
• Amazon Organic Store: A convenient platform for online shopping, Amazon's Organic Store offers a wide selection of organic food products, from pantry staples to health and wellness items, delivered across India.
• Two Brothers Organic Farm (TBOF): TBOF is dedicated to providing farm-fresh, high-quality organic produce. Known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices, it offers a variety of organic fruits, vegetables, dairy, and pantry items.
• Big Basket Organic: Known for its wide range of groceries, Big Basket offers an extensive collection of organic products from certified farms, including vegetables, fruits, pulses, and packaged foods, all available for home delivery.
• GoOrganic: A platform offering a curated selection of organic food and health products, GoOrganic focuses on quality and sustainability, offering everything from fresh produce to snacks and dairy products.
• Organic World: Organic World is an online marketplace specializing in organic products, including groceries, wellness products, and personal care, all sourced from certified organic farms across India.

💰 Profitability of Organic Farming in India

While yields in organic farming may be lower during the initial 1–2 years, profitability increases significantly due to premium prices and lower input costs. Organic produce commands higher prices in the market, making it a profitable choice in the long term.

✅ Key Profit Boosters:

• Government subsidies (PKVY, MOVCDNER) – Financial incentives for organic farming.
• Certification (PGS or NPOP) – Organic certification increases market value.
• Direct-to-consumer sales via WhatsApp, Farmers Markets, Organic Bazaars – Eliminates middlemen and increases profits.
• Export market linkages – Access to high-value international markets for organic produce.

🌾 Inspiring Success Stories of Organic Farmers in India

Discover how organic farming is transforming lives across India. These success stories highlight the positive impact of sustainable farming practices, demonstrating the financial benefits and opportunities available to organic farmers in India. Organic farming not only improves soil health but also boosts income, making it a promising option for Indian farmers seeking long-term profitability.

🌱 Organic Farming Success Stories in India:

• Pushpa Rawat, Uttarakhand: Specializing in traditional hill crops, Pushpa Rawat switched to organic farming and partnered with a Delhi-based organic store. Her earnings have grown to ₹1.5 lakh annually from just 1.2 acres of land. This success proves that organic farming can be highly profitable even on a small scale in India.
• Rajender Singh, Haryana: Rajender Singh adopted vermicomposting techniques and transitioned his wheat farm to organic practices. Within 2 years, his income increased by 3x, and he now exports organic wheat to Dubai, tapping into international markets and demonstrating the global demand for organic produce.
• Tribal Farmers, Nagaland (MOVCDNER): With support from the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER), tribal farmers in Nagaland shifted to organic turmeric cultivation. The price they fetch for turmeric in the export market is ₹180/kg, compared to ₹80/kg in local markets, boosting their incomes significantly.
• Ajinky Hange, Maharashtra: Ajinky Hange, alongside his brother, took a bold step into organic farming by cultivating high-value crops like organic vegetables and fruits in Maharashtra. Their success lies in leveraging organic certification and selling directly to local organic markets and online platforms. This approach helped them achieve a steady income increase, with their earnings growing exponentially over the last 3 years. Today, they are recognized as one of the prominent organic farming success stories in the region.

These real-life examples of organic farming success in India are an inspiration for many farmers across the country. By embracing sustainable farming practices and tapping into organic certification, local and international markets, Indian farmers can see substantial income growth and contribute to a healthier environment.

🧑‍🌾 How to Start Organic Farming in India: A Beginner's Guide

Organic farming in India is an excellent opportunity for sustainable agriculture that not only nurtures soil health but also leads to higher profitability. With the growing demand for chemical-free, eco-friendly products, organic farming has become a promising career choice for aspiring farmers. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to start organic farming in India:

🌱 1. Choose the Right Organic Crops to Grow

Before starting your organic farming journey, select high-demand crops that have a good market. Popular organic crops in India include:

• Turmeric: Known for its health benefits and global demand, especially for export markets.
• Ginger: An easy-to-grow crop with a high return on investment, especially in states like Kerala and Karnataka.
• Spinach and other leafy greens: Fast-growing crops that are widely consumed and easy to manage.
• Herbs like mint, basil, and coriander: These crops require less space and are in high demand in both local and international markets.
• Fruits like mangoes and bananas: Organic fruits fetch a premium price, especially in export markets.

🌿 2. Apply for Organic Certification

Certification is crucial to establish credibility and access premium markets. In India, two primary certification systems are available:

• PGS (Participatory Guarantee System): Ideal for small farmers, this certification is community-based and cost-effective.
• NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production): This certification is required for farmers who wish to export organic produce and adhere to international standards.

Obtaining these certifications will enhance the marketability of your organic products and ensure they meet the required standards for both domestic and international trade.

💵 3. Take Advantage of Government Subsidies and Schemes

India's government has launched several schemes to support organic farming and encourage farmers to adopt sustainable practices:

• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Offers ₹50,000 per hectare for 3 years to support cluster-based organic farming with training, organic inputs, and marketing.
• Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER): Provides support for organic farming in the NE region, including input assistance, farmer group formation, and market access.
• National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Focuses on soil health management by promoting organic inputs like bio-fertilizers and vermicompost.

Registering under these schemes can help you receive subsidies, training, and other resources to start your organic farm without a heavy financial burden.

🌾 4. Focus on Soil Health and Sustainable Practices

Soil health is the cornerstone of successful organic farming. To maintain soil fertility and ensure healthy crops, follow these practices:

• Use Organic Manure: Incorporate compost, green manure, and neem cake into the soil to replenish nutrients naturally.
• Crop Rotation: Rotate your crops to prevent soil depletion and reduce the risk of pest infestations.
• Mulching: Protect the soil from erosion, retain moisture, and provide nutrients by using organic mulch.
• Vermicomposting: Use earthworms to create nutrient-rich compost that enhances soil health.

📣 5. Marketing Your Organic Produce

Once your organic crops are ready for harvest, it’s time to market them effectively. Here are some strategies for selling your organic products:

• Online Organic Platforms: Sell your produce on popular online organic stores like Organic India, 24 Mantra, and Natureland Organics to reach a wider audience.
• Direct-to-Consumer Sales: Connect with customers directly through platforms like WhatsApp, Farmer's Markets, and Organic Bazaars.
• Local Organic Markets: Join local organic markets and cooperative stores that specialize in organic produce.
• Export Markets: Consider exporting your products to international markets, especially if you have NPOP certification.

By effectively marketing your organic produce, you can increase your reach and profitability, ensuring long-term success in the organic farming business.

Starting organic farming in India may seem like a challenge, but with the right knowledge, certification, and support from the government, it can be a profitable and sustainable venture. Embrace organic farming to not only improve your income but also contribute to a healthier and greener planet.

📌 Challenges in Organic Farming in India (and Solutions)

Organic farming in India is a rewarding yet challenging venture. While the demand for organic produce is on the rise, farmers face numerous obstacles along the way. From lower yields in the initial years to difficulty in accessing markets, these challenges can be daunting. However, with the right strategies and resources, these hurdles can be overcome. Let’s dive into the common challenges faced by organic farmers and the practical solutions that can help:

Despite these challenges, the benefits of organic farming — such as higher market prices, better soil health, and environmental sustainability — make it a worthwhile pursuit. By implementing the right solutions, farmers can gradually overcome the obstacles and make organic farming a profitable venture.

Additionally, government support and subsidies, such as PKVY and MOVCDNER, can play a crucial role in overcoming some of these challenges. Farmers should actively explore these opportunities to reduce financial barriers and improve their organic farming practices.

As organic farming continues to gain momentum in India, addressing these challenges with innovative solutions will lead to a more sustainable and profitable future for farmers. If you’re considering starting organic farming, understanding these hurdles and their solutions will better prepare you for success.

📚 Organic Certification Bodies in India (2025 Guide)

Organic certification is a crucial step for farmers and producers who want to access the growing market for organic produce in India. It helps verify the authenticity of organic products and opens the door to premium domestic and export opportunities. Below is a comprehensive list of the top organic certification bodies in India (2025) and what they offer:

1. NPOP (National Programme for Organic Production)

• Target Audience: Exporters & Large-scale Organic Farmers
• Accredited by: APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
• Scope: NPOP certification is essential for exporting organic products. It ensures compliance with international organic standards and is widely accepted in the EU, US, and other markets.
• Certification Features: Extensive inspections, global standard compliance, and organic input certification.

2. PGS-India (Participatory Guarantee System)

• Target Audience: Small-scale Farmers and Domestic Sellers
• Ideal For: Farmers who need affordable, community-based certification for local markets
• Scope: Supported by the Indian government, PGS-India is designed for grassroots organic farming practices and is recognized across India for domestic sales.
• Certification Features: Group certification, peer reviews, and low-cost inspection models.

3. ECOCERT

• Target Audience: Exporters & Producers Seeking Global Recognition
• Accredited by: International Organic Certification Networks
• Scope: ECOCERT offers certification for organic food, textiles, and cosmetics. It works extensively with Indian farms aiming to sell in international markets.
• Certification Features: International credibility, annual audits, and versatile certification across sectors.

4. IMO Control

• Target Audience: Indian Producers Exporting to Global Markets
• Scope: IMO Control offers high-standard certification for farms and food processors focusing on exports, especially to Europe and North America.
• Certification Features: Globally compliant standards, coverage for both food and non-food organic products, and farm-to-exporter solutions.

5. State Organic Certification Agencies

• Target Audience: Region-Specific Organic Producers
• Scope: These agencies provide localized certification based on regional farming practices. For example, the Uttarakhand Organic Commodity Board certifies produce within the state.
• Certification Features: State-aligned standards, local inspection teams, and government support tailored to regional needs.

Why Organic Certification is Crucial for Indian Farmers?

• Market Access: Certified products can be sold at premium prices in local and global organic markets.
• Consumer Trust: Certification confirms the authenticity of organic claims, building consumer confidence.
• Government Support: Certification unlocks eligibility for schemes like PKVY and MOVCDNER, which offer subsidies and training.

Key Takeaways on Organic Certification in India:

• NPOP: Mandatory for exports, aligns with global standards.
• PGS-India: Cost-effective and suitable for small-scale farmers in domestic markets.
• ECOCERT & IMO Control: Internationally trusted third-party certifiers with broad sector coverage.
• State Certification Bodies: Ideal for region-specific support and compliance.

Choosing the right certification depends on your farm size, target market (local vs export), and budget. With proper certification, Indian farmers can boost profits, expand their market reach, and promote a healthier food ecosystem.

📈 Future Outlook of Organic Farming in India

India’s organic farming sector is entering a transformative phase, fueled by government support, rising health consciousness, and growing export demand. Here's a closer look at what the future holds for organic agriculture in 2025 and beyond:

• 🌱 30% Annual Growth in Organic Exports: According to market forecasts, India's organic exports are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30% through 2025, driven by increased global demand and improved certification access.
• 💰 Budget 2025 Boosts Organic Clusters: The Union Budget 2025 has allocated higher funding to expand organic farming clusters under the PM-PRANAM and PKVY schemes, enhancing access to composting units, training, and input subsidies.
• 🚀 Rise of Agri-Tech Startups: A new wave of Agri-Tech startups is helping organic farmers connect directly with premium urban markets and exporters through digital platforms, ensuring better price realization and reduced middlemen dependency.

With policy support, digital innovation, and growing consumer demand, organic farming in India is poised to become a mainstream agricultural movement. This growth will not only benefit farmers economically but also contribute to sustainable and chemical-free food systems.

📝 Why More Indian Farmers Are Turning to Organic in 2025

Organic farming in India is fast becoming the preferred choice for farmers seeking sustainability, better prices, and market resilience. With growing consumer demand for chemical-free food, strong policy support through programs like PKVY and NPOP, and easier access to certification, the shift is no longer optional—it’s strategic.

From small landholders to agri-entrepreneurs, more Indians are embracing organic methods to boost profits, preserve soil health, and tap into premium domestic and international markets. The 2025 landscape offers more opportunities than ever to transition towards profitable, sustainable agriculture.

🌱 Organic Farming FAQs for Indian Growers (2025 Edition)

Organic farming in India is growing rapidly thanks to rising health awareness, government subsidies, and market demand for chemical-free produce. These FAQs answer your most pressing questions—startup costs, profitability, crops, soil care, and selling channels.