A system of trust and participation that keeps organic assurance in the hands of the people.
Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) are community-based certification systems that ensure organic integrity through trust, transparency, and collective responsibility.
Instead of relying on distant third-party inspectors, PGS works through peer review — where farmers and facilitators observe and learn from one another.
It is not just about compliance; it's about community learning, shared ethics, and mutual accountability.
Core Principles of PGS
Trust
Transparency
Participation
Learning
Equity
PGS in India
Since 2011, PGS India system has been managed by the PGS-India Secretariat under the Ministry of Agriculture.
Alongside this, the PGSOC certification represents a community-validated system — supported by civil society organizations and recognised by the communities that uphold it.
Certification Process
How the PGSOC Certification System Works
Step 1: Formation of the Group
Farmer groups come together voluntarily, guided by shared organic values and locally relevant standards.
Step 2: Peer Review
Members visit each other's farms, observe practices, and document compliance in a transparent and supportive way.
Step 3: Consolidation and Review
Facilitation Councils review peer assessments, verify documentation, and ensure that certification decisions are collectively fair and consistent.
Step 4: Certification
Once all reviews are complete, certification is issued through the PGSOC process — validated by the community and overseen by the Facilitation Council.
Step 5: Transparency and Learning
All records remain open and accessible. Peer reviews double as opportunities for shared learning, building trust and capacity within the community.
Ready to get certified?
Join thousands of farmers who have embraced the PGS Organic Certification system. Our transparent, participatory process ensures credibility, trust, and market access for your organic produce. Whether you're a smallholder or a farming collective, PGS Organic certification empowers you to thrive in the organic market.
Take the first step toward a sustainable future. Get certified today and become part of a growing community committed to fairness, transparency, and ecological farming.