The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) on October 16, 2023, issued the Draft Non-Basmati Aromatic Rice Grading and Marking Rules, 2023.
The following provisions have been stated:
• Grade designation mark: The grade designation mark shall consist of the design of "AGMARK Insignia", as set out in Schedule-I, incorporating the certificate of authorization number, the word “AGMARK", the name of the commodity, and its grade.
• Grade designations: The grade designations to indicate the quality of rice and the criteria for grade designation shall be set out in Schedule II to VI.
• Quality: For the purpose of these rules, the quality of rice shall be as provided in Schedule II to VI.
• Method of packing:
(1) Rice shall be packed in suitable packaging material in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, the Food Safety and Standards (Labeling and Display) Regulations, 2020 and Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011.
(2) The graded material of small pack sizes of the same lot or batch and grade may be packed in a master container with complete details thereon along with the grade designation mark.
(3) Each package shall contain rice of the same type and the same grade designation.
(4) Each package shall be properly and securely closed and sealed to disallow spilling.
The Draft Rules shall be taken into consideration after the expiry of 45 days from the date of publication of this notification.
Objections or Suggestions from any person concerning the draft are invited and shall be considered before the expiry of 45 days from the date of publication of this notification.
Objections or Suggestions if any shall be addressed to the Agricultural Marketing Adviser to the Government of India, Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Head Office, CGO Complex, NH - IV, Faridabad (Haryana) 121001.
Kindly find the Schedule provided with this document attached to the document.
[Notification No G.S.R. 742(E)]
