Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS)-PRAMAAN
The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS) “PRAMAAN” is designed to promote sustainable management of forests and agroforestry, and responsible practices in the wood-based industry across India by providing market incentives to entities who comply with the requirements of IFWCS.
About IFWCS “PRAMAAN”
IFWCS “PRAMAAN” certifications are based on a comprehensive framework of criteria and indicators to assesses forest divisions, plantations, and agroforestry systems against globally recognised sustainability standards while being tailored to the Indian context.
There are three types of certifications under IFWCS “PRAMAAN”:
1. Forest Management (FM) Certification: For recorded forest areas and forest plantations, in accordance with the Indian Forest Management Standard
2. Trees Outside Forests (TOF) Management Certification: For agroforestry systems and private plantations in accordance with the Trees Outside Forests (Management) Standard
3. Chain of Custody (CoC) Management Certification: Ensures traceability of timber and non-timber forest products at each step of production, from its source to the customer.
WBSPL Certification Process
The WBSPL Certification Process outlines a structured and transparent framework for certifying products, processes, or services according to defined standards such as IFWCS-PRAMAAN ST 2024. It begins with a detailed application process, including information on the product, regulatory compliance, and any multi-site or outsourced operations. After submission, WBSPL reviews the application to verify completeness and assess its capacity to evaluate the request. If accepted, a comprehensive audit plan is developed in coordination with the client, including audit scope, schedule, sampling strategy, and site-specific considerations. A certification agreement with the client on the said terms and conditions is signed before going ahead. Clients may also request a preliminary audit to assess readiness.
The core evaluation, or main audit, involves an in-depth on-site assessment of the client’s compliance with quality, safety, and regulatory standard requirements. Key audit areas include product and process conformance, chain of custody controls, legal and operational setup, personnel competence, and proper use of certification trademarks. Multi-site clients undergo a documented sampling methodology to ensure representative coverage. Any identified nonconformities require corrective actions and follow-up evaluations. Certification is only granted if all issues are resolved satisfactorily, and systemic problems may lead to denial or withdrawal of certification across all sites.
Post-audit, an independent reviewer verifies the audit findings before a formal certification decision is made by impartial, qualified personnel. WBSPL then issues detailed certification documents specifying the certified scope, validity, and standards referenced. Ongoing surveillance ensures continued compliance, and WBSPL manages changes affecting certification, including revised standards or client-initiated changes. The final audit report summarises the entire audit process and provides a detailed assessment of the client’s conformance to the certification standards.
A transparent complaints and appeals process ensures that concerns are addressed impartially, maintaining the integrity and credibility of the certification scheme. If a nonconformity is identified, either through surveillance or other means, WBSPL shall take appropriate actions that may include continuation of certification under specific conditions, reduction of certification scope, suspension of certification or withdrawal of certification.
Information about the applications registered and certifications granted, suspended or withdrawn is provided below:
Name of Client:
Certification Code:
Validity:
Country:
Scope:
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