PGS
PGS (Participatory Guarantee System)
Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) is a locally focused quality assurance system for organic agriculture. It certifies producers through active participation of farmers, consumers, and stakeholders, based on trust, transparency, social networks, and knowledge exchange. PGS helps small-scale farmers maintain organic standards while strengthening community cooperation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Objectives
- Promote safe and sustainable organic farming
- Ensure transparency in agricultural production
- Build trust between producers and consumers
- Support small farmers through community participation
- Encourage environmentally friendly agriculture
Key Features
- Farmer-to-farmer inspection system
- Community participation and accountability
- Low-cost organic assurance process
- Local market development
- Knowledge sharing and training activities
Six Steps Quality Control System
1. Farmer Registration
All farmers are registered with complete farm information, production details, and cultivation records to ensure proper monitoring and traceability.
2. Training & Capacity Building
Farmers receive training on organic cultivation, soil management, pest control, compost preparation, and sustainable farming practices.
3. Internal Inspection
Regular internal inspections are conducted to verify compliance with organic and quality standards at farm level.
4. Documentation & Record Keeping
Production activities, input usage, harvesting data, and inspection reports are properly documented for transparency and accountability.
5. Product Testing & Verification
Products are checked for quality, safety, and compliance with organic standards through field verification and testing procedures.
6. Approval & Market Distribution
Approved products are labeled and distributed to consumers through trusted marketing channels while maintaining quality assurance.