Question : EXPORT OF ORGANIC FOODS

(a) whether India has been exporting certified organic foods;

(b) if so, the quantum and value of such exports made during the last three years indicating the countries where these are exported and also indicate the sales within the country;

(c) whether the certification of these foods is also being done by APEDA through specialists, laboratories and institutions, both Government and non-Government, in the country;

(d) whether the Government are aware that a secret report from UK favours the nutritional value of organics as reported in the Alternatives to Pesticides in Tropical countries published by the Vigyan Prasar ( DST) in 1999;

(e) whether the Government propose to undertake detailed studies in the matter as a support to APEDA`s efforts for export promotion of organic foods which are being produced around the world today; and

(f) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY)

(a) : Yes, Sir.

(b) : As export figures are not compiled differentiating the item as organic and non organic produce, details with regard to export as also sales within the country are not available.

(c) : Certification of organic food products for exports is being carried out by certification agencies accredited by the accredited certifying agencies. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is one of the accredited certifying agencies.

(d) : Yes, Sir.

(e) & (f) : Department of Agriculture & Cooperation has been supporting the efforts of APEDA to have focused approach in promotion of export of organic agriculture/ horticulture products. Presently no study is being undertaken in this regard.