Coffee Development Programme in North Eastern Region: Quality Upgradation / Certification: Support for Eco-Certification / Organic Certification 2026
This scheme helps coffee growers in the North East region achieve better quality and access premium markets Read More... by supporting eco and organic certifications, and encourages small growers to form groups for this purpose. Read less
Details
The North Eastern region of India is brimming with potential for coffee cultivation. To help local coffee growers tap into this potential further, the Coffee Board has introduced a special scheme. This initiative focuses on improving the quality of coffee through eco-friendly and organic certifications, paving the way for higher earnings and access to global specialty markets.
What Is This Scheme?
This is a sub-component of the larger 'Integrated Coffee Development Project'. Under this specific program, coffee growers in the North East can receive financial support to get their plantations certified as organic or eco-friendly. The main goal is to boost coffee quality, making it more attractive for consumers looking for specialty products. It also aims to help small growers band together, making it easier for them to achieve certification and potentially create shared facilities in the future.
Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?
The scheme is primarily designed for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) or collectives of tribal coffee growers in the North Eastern states. These groups must be looking to get their coffee plantations certified under various sustainability and quality standards.
Why This Scheme Is Important
By encouraging eco and organic certifications, the scheme helps growers meet international quality and environmental standards. This can lead to better prices for their produce and open doors to new, profitable markets. It also promotes sustainable farming practices and empowers small growers by encouraging collaboration.
Objective
Benefits
Sources and references
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be part of a Self-Help Group (SHG) or a collective of tribal growers applying for certification of your plantations for quality and sustainability standards.
- Support is available for certifications like Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ Certified, Bird friendly/Shade grown coffee, or any other similar programs.
- Even if you are certified under international standards like EU Regulation, NOP (USA), or JAS (Japan), you must also be certified as per the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) standards.
- The certificate must be obtained from a Certification Agency that is accredited by the respective Certification Programmes during the MTF period.
How To Apply
To apply for this scheme, you need to submit an application in the prescribed format. Ensure you fill it out completely and submit it in duplicate.
- Download the application form from the official Coffee Board website. (Refer to the 'Documents Required' section for the link).
- Gather all the necessary documents as listed below.
- Submit the completed application along with all required documents to the Coffee Board.
For specific submission addresses or online application portals, please refer to the official Coffee Board notifications and the prescribed application format.
Documents Required
- A completed application form in the prescribed format, submitted in duplicate. You can download it from here.
- Proof of your organization's registration, such as a Certificate of Incorporation/Registration, Memorandum of Articles of Association/Society registration, along with a complete list of your members.
- A copy of the certification issued by an Accredited Certification Agency.
- The original invoice showing the cost incurred for the certification.
- A copy of your Bank Pass Book, which includes details like your account number, bank name, branch, and IFSC code.
FAQ’s
Who exactly can apply for financial help under this Coffee Development Programme?
The scheme is for SHGs or groups of tribal coffee growers in the North East region who are seeking certification for their plantations for various quality and sustainability standards.
What happens if I already have an international organic certification?
Even if you have certifications like EU Regulation, NOP (USA), or JAS (Japan), you must also obtain certification according to the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) standards to be eligible for this scheme.
Can a single tribal grower apply without joining a group?
No, the scheme specifically encourages tribal growers to form SHGs or collectives to apply. This helps in promoting common facilities and collective growth.
What types of certifications are accepted for support?
The scheme supports various sustainability and quality certifications including Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ Certified, Bird friendly/Shade grown coffee, and other equivalent programs.
How long does the subsidy for organic certification last?
For organic certification, the subsidy of 75% of the cost is spread over three years or the duration of your conversion period, whichever is shorter, within the MTF period. This also covers costs during the 'in-conversion' phase.
What proof do I need to show for the certification costs?
You will need to submit the original invoice that details the cost you paid for obtaining the certification.
What if my application contains incorrect information?
Providing wrong or misleading information can lead to your application being rejected. It might also result in legal consequences.
Can I get support for any eco-certification I choose?
Support is limited to specific certifications like Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ Certified, Bird friendly/Shade grown coffee, or other programs that are considered equivalent to these.
Is there any support for certifications other than organic ones?
Yes, for other eco-certifications, you can receive 75% of the certification cost for one year during the MTF period.
How do I prove that my organization is legitimate?
You'll need to provide a Certificate of Incorporation/Registration or your Society's Memorandum of Articles of Association. A complete list of your members is also required.
How can I get the application form?
The application form can be downloaded from the official Coffee Board website. A direct link is provided in the 'Documents Required' section.
What is the subsidy amount for eco-certifications?
For eco-certifications other than organic, the scheme provides a subsidy covering 75% of the certification cost for a period of one year during the MTF period.
What is meant by 'backend support' in this scheme?
'Backend support' refers to the financial assistance provided as a subsidy on the certification costs after the estate has obtained the certification.
Where should I submit the application form and documents?
You need to submit the application in duplicate along with all required documents to the Coffee Board. Specific submission details should be checked on the official website or the application form itself.
Do I need to mention my bank details?
Yes, you must submit a copy of your Bank Pass Book containing essential details like your account number, bank name, branch, and IFSC code, so that the subsidy can be disbursed to you.
What if I try to influence the application process unfairly?
Any attempt to influence the subsidy process through gifts, rewards, or coercion, or by providing false information, can lead to the rejection of your application and may invite legal action.
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