AGMARK (Agriculture Mark) Licence

AGMARK Certification in India

Introduction

Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy, providing employment to nearly 60% of the population and playing a vital role in national development. Beyond economic contribution, agriculture supports environmental sustainability and food security, making it indispensable to human life.

However, with the commercialization of agricultural produce, issues such as adulteration, contamination, and unfair trade practices have emerged. To protect farmers from exploitation and consumers from being misled, the Government of India enacted the Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking) Act, 1937.

Under this Act, the AGMARK Certification was introduced as a quality assurance mechanism to ensure that agricultural products sold in India meet prescribed standards.

AGMARK is derived from two words:

  • AG – Agriculture
  • MARK – Certification / Quality Mark

AGMARK is a government certification mark that guarantees the quality, purity, and grading of agricultural products in India. The certification is issued by the Directorate of Marketing & Inspection (DMI) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.

AGMARK functions as a third-party quality assurance system, ensuring that agricultural commodities conform to established grading standards based on quality parameters and chemical composition.

Products Covered Under AGMARK

AGMARK certification covers approximately 222 agricultural and food products, including:

  • Edible vegetable oils
  • Pulses and cereals
  • Spices and condiments
  • Ghee and butter
  • Semi-processed agricultural products
  • Honey
  • Oilseeds
Mandatory vs Voluntary
  • AGMARK is voluntary for most agricultural products.
  • Edible vegetable oils and fat spreads are regulated mandatorily under FSSAI Regulations, 2006, and AGMARK is not applicable to them.

Any manufacturer or packer meeting the prescribed standards can apply for AGMARK certification.

Importance of AGMARK Certification

  • Ensures quality and purity of agricultural products
  • Protects consumers from adulteration
  • Builds trust and brand credibility
  • Prevents unfair trade practices
  • Helps farmers and manufacturers get better market value

AGMARK-graded products are categorized into grades such as Special, Good, Fair, and Ordinary, making it easier for consumers to identify product quality.

Process of AGMARK Registration

Step 1: Documentation

The applicant must submit the application along with required documents and prescribed fees. The registration process may vary based on the commodity type, grading fee, and processing requirements.

Step 2: Verification

The applicant must:

  • Have adequate processing infrastructure
  • Have access to a recognized AGMARK laboratory or an in-house lab

DMI officials verify facilities, equipment, and hygiene standards.

Verification timeline: 30–40 days

Step 3: End Product Analysis

An authorized chemist conducts testing of:

  • Raw materials
  • Finished products

Only products meeting AGMARK standards proceed further.

Step 4: Grant of Licence

Upon successful verification and testing, DMI grants the Certificate of Authorization (AGMARK Licence).

Post-licensing, DMI field officers conduct regular inspections and market surveillance.

Documents Required for AGMARK Licence

  • Authenticated test report from a recognized AGMARK laboratory
  • Proof of firm establishment (Company Registration Certificate)
  • Memorandum of Association (for companies)
  • Partnership Deed (for partnership firms)
  • List of products requiring AGMARK certification
  • Applicant’s name and firm details
  • Address of the manufacturing/packing unit
  • Product samples (small sachets)
  • Total production quantity (previous year)
  • Turnover of the last financial year

Basic Requirements for AGMARK Certification

  • Adequate and hygienic infrastructure
  • Access to a recognized testing laboratory
  • Clean and safe processing environment
  • Clean packing containers
  • Cold storage and pasteurization facilities (for butter)
  • Strict quality control checks on raw materials
  • Ghee clarification temperature not exceeding 110°C
  • Qualified and experienced technical staff

Timeline

40–60 days, depending on product category and inspection findings.

Validity & Renewal

  • AGMARK Licence Validity: 5 years
  • Renewal Application: Must be filed at least 3 months before expiry

Failure to renew on time may lead to suspension of certification.

Why Choose Qualitance India for AGMARK Certification?

Qualitance India provides end-to-end AGMARK consultancy, including:

  • Eligibility assessment
  • Documentation & application filing
  • Laboratory coordination
  • DMI inspection support
  • Licence issuance & renewal
  • Post-certification compliance guidance

We help agricultural producers, processors, and packers achieve quality recognition and market credibility with ease.

Need AGMARK Certification Support?

Contact Qualitance India today for reliable, compliant, and hassle-free AGMARK registration services.

Email: info@qualitanceindia.com

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