India’s agricultural economy is not just about production, but also about ensuring quality, standardization, and credibility—especially when agricultural products are traded in domestic and international markets. One of the key frameworks that supports this effort is the Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937. This Act empowers the Central Government to prescribe quality standards and issue authorizations for grading and marking of agricultural produce.
The Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937 (commonly known as the AGMARK Act) was enacted to promote standardization and quality certification of agricultural commodities. Administered by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, the Act facilitates the grading and marking of agricultural and allied commodities based on well-defined quality parameters.
The AGMARK certification, developed under this Act, is a recognized symbol of quality in India and abroad, ensuring that agricultural produce conforms to specified standards.
The Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937 was enacted to provide for grading and standard marking of agricultural and allied produce. It allows the Central Government to prescribe grade standards and authorize individuals or entities to use a grade designation mark, commonly known as the AGMARK.
The AGMARK label signifies the quality of produce and is recognized both in domestic and international markets. The Act empowers the government to penalize unauthorized use or counterfeiting of such marks, ensuring integrity in quality certification.
Authorization under the AGMARK Act means that a business entity (including processors, packers, exporters, or traders) is formally approved by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection to grade and mark agricultural produce in accordance with prescribed AGMARK standards.
Grading Based on Physical and Chemical Parameters
Authorized entities are empowered to assess and grade produce based on well-defined quality parameters. These parameters include size, color, moisture content, purity, taste, and other physical or chemical characteristics. Such grading helps ensure consistency in quality across batches, meeting both domestic and international market expectations.
Once authorized, a business can affix the AGMARK grade designation mark or label on the product packaging. This mark is a government-backed symbol of quality and assures buyers that the product conforms to certified standards. The use of AGMARK labeling is regulated, and only those who meet the criteria are allowed to use it legally.
Authorization involves strict requirements around record-keeping, batch tracking, and laboratory testing. This ensures traceability—the ability to track the produce from source to point of sale—and reinforces quality control across the supply chain. It reduces risks of adulteration, substandard produce, and mislabeling.
In both retail and wholesale markets, the AGMARK label instills consumer trust. Buyers especially institutional and international ones—prefer AGMARK-certified goods for their consistency and authenticity. For exporters, AGMARK certification often serves as a quality passport, facilitating smoother customs clearance and market access in many importing countries.
A wide range of products is notified under AGMARK standards, including:
Over 200 commodities are currently covered under the AGMARK certification system.
The following entities can apply for authorization to grade and mark articles under the Act:
To obtain authorization, applicants must fulfill certain infrastructural and technical requirements, including:
1. Own or hired grading premises that meet hygiene and safety standards.
2. Qualified technical personnel trained in AGMARK grading.
3. Access to standardized equipment and laboratory facilities for testing.
4. Adequate record-keeping systems for traceability.
5. Compliance with the General Grading and Marking Rules, 1988 and relevant commodity-specific standards.
To obtain authorization for grading and marking under the AGMARK Act, an applicant must follow a structured process administered by the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI). The process begins with the submission of an application in the prescribed format to the local DMI office, detailing the nature of the entity, types of commodities intended for grading, available infrastructure, laboratory arrangements, and staff qualifications. Once the application is received, DMI officials conduct a site inspection to verify the suitability of the premises, grading equipment, hygiene standards, and documentation systems. Following a satisfactory inspection, the applicant is required to perform sample grading and testing, wherein representative product lots are graded and evaluated in AGMARK-approved laboratories to ensure compliance with prescribed standards. When the applicant meets all regulatory and operational requirements, the DMI issues a Certificate of Authorization, officially allowing the entity to grade and mark agricultural produce under AGMARK norms, along with instructions for proper labeling and packaging.
Once granted, the Certificate of Authorization (CoA) for grading and marking under the AGMARK Act is valid for a period of five years from the date of issuance. To continue grading beyond this period, the authorized packer must apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiry. Renewal is based on grading performance, compliance history, and payment of government dues.
The AGMARK certification system, established under the Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937, is a cornerstone of quality assurance in India’s agricultural value chain. By enabling standardization, traceability, and authenticity, it enhances the marketability of agricultural produce both within the country and across global markets. The authorization to grade and mark not only empowers businesses to align with government-approved standards but also fosters trust among consumers and trading partners. With over 200 commodities covered, and a clear legal and procedural framework in place, AGMARK remains a vital tool for producers, processors, and exporters committed to delivering quality. As demand for certified and safe food continues to rise, AGMARK certification offers both a regulatory advantage and a competitive edge in the agri-business landscape.
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Who can apply for AGMARK authorization?
Any processor, exporter, packer, trader, cooperative, or food business operator dealing with agricultural produce can apply for AGMARK authorization.
How long is the authorization valid?
The Certificate of Authorization is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before it expires.
Is laboratory testing mandatory?
Yes, for certain commodities like oils, ghee, and honey, lab testing is compulsory. The applicant must either have an in-house lab or access to an AGMARK-approved laboratory.
Can I grade multiple products under one certificate?
Yes, but you must clearly mention each commodity in the application and ensure facilities and infrastructure support their individual grading requirements.
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