International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
M Manikandan

abstract
The organic certification process for mills is critical to ensuring that products meet strict organic standards from production to the end consumer. However, mills face numerous challenges in obtaining and maintaining this certification. This study identifies and analyzes the key problems in organic certification for mills, including complex regulatory requirements, high certification costs, lack of clarity in standards, and inconsistencies in auditing processes. Additionally, issues such as limited access to accredited certifying bodies, the burden of documentation, and difficulties in traceability contribute to the complexity of achieving certification. The research highlights the need for streamlined certification processes, increased support for mills, and enhanced transparency and consistency in standards to promote the growth of organic production. Addressing these challenges is crucial for fostering a more sustainable and resilient organic sector. Organic certification in the millet industry presents several challenges that hinder the growth and sustainability of this sector. One of the primary problems is the complex and costly certification process, which disproportionately affects small-scale farmers who lack the financial resources and technical expertise required to navigate it. Additionally, there is a lack of awareness and education about organic practices and certification standards among farmers, leading to confusion and inconsistency in adherence to guidelines. The certification process is also time-consuming, requiring extensive documentation and repeated audits, which can be discouraging for farmers already operating on thin margins. Furthermore, there is inadequate infrastructure for monitoring and maintaining the integrity of organic practices throughout the supply chain, resulting in issues related to contamination and fraud. Limited access to reliable organic inputs, such as seeds and fertilizers, adds to the difficulty of maintaining organic standards. Finally, a lack of consumer awareness and trust in organic labels complicates market dynamics, reducing the premium prices that farmers might otherwise receive for their organically certified millets. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including simplifying the certification process, providing education and training to farmers, improving infrastructure for certification and supply chain integrity, and enhancing consumer awareness about the benefits of organic millets.