Coffee Development Programme in North Eastern Region: Quality Upgradation / Certification: Support for Eco-Certification / Organic Certification

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Categories: Agriculture,Rural & Environment

Sub-categories: Agricultural Inputs- seeds, fertilizer etc., Financial assistance

Target beneficiaries: Self Help Groups (SHGS)

Tags: Agriculture, Farmer, Subsidy, DBT

• Scale of Subsidy For Organic Certification: 75% of the certification cost spread over 3 years or the Conversion period whichever is less during the MTF period. For Other Eco-Certifications: 75% of the certification cost for one year during the MTF period. NOTE: This incentive is provided only as backend support for those who obtain certification of their estates. However in the case of organic certification the costs incurred towards certification during in-conversion period are also eligible for support

What specific eco-certifications are eligible for support under the "Coffee Development Programme in North Eastern Region"?

The scheme supports certifications such as Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ Certified, and equivalent programs, ensuring adherence to specific sustainability standards.

Could a collective of tribal growers apply for this scheme individually without forming a group or collective?

The scheme necessitates tribal growers to form SHGs or collectives to access support, aiming to promote common facilities and sustainability among growers.

Regarding the subsidy for organic certification, what is the period over which the 75% subsidy is distributed?

The subsidy for organic certification, set at 75% of the cost, is allocated over three years or the conversion period, whichever is shorter, within the MTF period.

Are applicants pursuing Eco/organic certification obliged to adhere to specific national standards?

Yes, applicants must obtain certification in accordance with NPOP standards, even if they hold certifications from international standards like EU Regulation, NOP, JAS, etc.

What constitutes the documentary requisites for availing this subsidy?

Essential documents include prescribed application formats, proof of incorporation/registration, details of members, certification from an accredited agency, original certification cost invoice, and bank account particulars.

What are the steps involved in claiming the subsidy after certification?

Submission of requisite documents to the Coffee Board, followed by scrutiny, field inspection, review, and approval by designated authorities culminates in the disbursement of the subsidy.

Is there a provision for amending the scheme's terms during its execution?

The Coffee Board retains the authority to amend or modify terms and conditions as deemed necessary for effective execution and scheme objectives without prior notice.

What actions may result in rejection of an application or legal consequences for applicants?

Offering rewards, gifts, or coercive measures to influence the subsidy process or furnishing incorrect information may lead to rejection or legal actions against applicants.

How does the Coffee Board ensure fund availability for releasing subsidies?

Availability of funds during a specific year determines the release of eligible subsidies to applicants under this scheme.

Can small growers access this scheme without engaging in eco-certification?

Small growers are encouraged to partake in eco-certification to access support, fostering quality improvements and entry into high-value markets.

What measures ensure adherence to the stipulated certification programs?

Certification must be obtained only from agencies accredited by the respective programs, ensuring compliance with specified sustainability and quality standards.

Are there specific requirements for the formation of SHGs or collectives?

The SHGs or collectives should comprise tribal growers and obtain certification for sustainability and quality standards to be eligible for support.

Could applicants avail themselves of the subsidy for certifications not explicitly mentioned in the scheme?

Support is limited to certifications meeting or equivalent to the specified Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ Certified, or similar programs outlined in the scheme.

What constitutes "backend support" in the context of obtaining certification?

The scheme offers backend support by subsidizing a portion of the certification costs for estates, promoting sustainable practices among growers.

Is the 75% subsidy for organic certification subject to any specific conditions?

The subsidy is contingent upon the certification period, covering three years or the conversion period, whichever is shorter, during the MTF period.

What actions by applicants might lead to immediate rejection of their applications?

Attempts to influence the subsidy process through offers, coercion, or providing incorrect information may result in the rejection of applications.

• https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/cdpnerqucsecoc
• https://coffeeboard.gov.in/Schemes/ICDP_388.pdf
• https://web.umang.gov.in/web_new/department?url=coffee_board%2Fservice%2F1739&dept_id=371&dept_name=Grower%20Registration&transactionId=PFCXMNL5&source=myscheme
• https://coffeeboard.gov.in/contact-us.html

Guidelines, Application And Declaration Form

https://coffeeboard.gov.in/Schemes/ICDP_388.pdf

Grower's Registration (UMANG)

https://web.umang.gov.in/web_new/department?url=coffee_board%2Fservice%2F1739&dept_id=371&dept_name=Grower%20Registration&transactionId=PFCXMNL5&source=myscheme

Contact Us

https://coffeeboard.gov.in/contact-us.html