India’s North Eastern region has immense potential for high-quality coffee production. To help coffee growers improve their product quality and access high-value specialty markets, the Coffee Board of India has launched the Coffee Development Programme in North Eastern Region: Quality Upgradation / Certification: Support for Eco-Certification / Organic Certification. This initiative, under the Integrated Coffee Development Project, provides financial assistance to growers seeking eco-certification or organic certification for their coffee estates.
Why is Certification Important?
Eco and organic certifications play a crucial role in:
- Ensuring better market prices for certified coffee.
- Promoting sustainable farming practices.
- Opening access to premium international markets.
- Encouraging growers to work collectively for long-term benefits.
Subsidy Benefits
The scheme offers 75% financial support for certification costs:
- Organic Certification: 75% subsidy spread over three years or the conversion period, whichever is shorter.
- Other Eco-Certifications (Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, UTZ Certified, Bird-Friendly, etc.): 75% subsidy for one year.
Note: The subsidy is backend support, meaning the grower must first obtain certification and then claim reimbursement. In the case of organic certification, costs incurred during the conversion period are also eligible.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme is open to:
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Collectives of Tribal Growers.
- Those seeking certification for organic, fair trade, rainforest alliance, UTZ, bird-friendly, or other equivalent standards.
- Growers certified under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP).
- Certification must be obtained from accredited certification agencies.
How to Apply?
The application process involves several key steps:
Step 1: Obtain Certification
Growers or SHGs must first complete the certification process through an accredited certification body.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
After certification, the growers must submit the following documents to the Coffee Board’s local office (JLO/SLO):
- Application form (in duplicate).
- Certificate of incorporation/registration of the SHG or growers’ collective.
- Certification issued by an accredited agency.
- Original invoice for certification costs.
- Copy of bank passbook with account details.
Step 3: Inspection & Verification
- The JLO/SLO verifies documents and conducts a field inspection.
- After verification, the claim is forwarded to the Deputy Director (Extn.)/Joint Director (Extn.).
Step 4: Approval & Fund Disbursement
- The Coffee Board scrutinizes the application and confirms eligibility.
- Upon approval, the subsidy is released to the grower’s bank account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What certifications qualify for the subsidy?
Eligible certifications include Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, Bird-Friendly, Shade-Grown, or any equivalent recognized certification.
2. Can individual growers apply without forming a group?
No, only SHGs or collectives of tribal growers are eligible.
3. How long is the subsidy period for organic certification?
The 75% subsidy is provided over three years or the conversion period, whichever is shorter.
4. Do applicants need to meet specific national standards?
Yes, applicants must comply with the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) standards, even if they have additional international certifications.
5. What documents are required for claiming the subsidy?
Applicants need to submit their certification proof, registration documents, bank details, and invoices.
6. What are the key steps to claim the subsidy?
- Obtain certification.
- Submit documents to the Coffee Board’s local office.
- Undergo inspection & verification.
- Receive approval and subsidy disbursement.
7. Can the scheme’s terms change over time?
Yes, the Coffee Board reserves the right to amend the terms during the scheme’s execution.
8. What can lead to application rejection?
Applications may be rejected due to incomplete documentation, non-compliance with certification standards, or misrepresentation of facts.
9. Is there a way for small growers to benefit without certification?
No, subsidy support is strictly for growers who obtain certification.
10. Can growers apply for certifications not explicitly listed in the scheme?
Yes, provided the certification is equivalent to the ones mentioned and recognized by the Coffee Board.
Final Thoughts
The Coffee Development Programme in North Eastern Region is a significant opportunity for coffee growers to enhance their product quality and gain better market access. By supporting eco-certification and organic certification, the scheme helps growers adopt sustainable practices, earn higher profits, and secure international recognition.
If you are a tribal coffee grower in the North Eastern region, consider applying for this scheme and take a step toward a more sustainable and profitable coffee business!
