NGO Registration in India is the first legal step to start a non-profit organization working for social, charitable, religious, or educational causes. Registering an NGO gives it legal identity, credibility, and eligibility to receive government grants, CSR funds, and donations.
In India, NGOs can be registered under different laws depending on their objectives and structure, and are regulated by authorities such as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and respective State Registrars.
What is an NGO?
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a legally registered, non-profit entity formed to work for public welfare without the motive of earning profits. Any surplus generated is reinvested to achieve the organization’s objectives.
Types of NGO Registrations in India
1. Trust Registration
- Governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (or state trust acts)
- Suitable for charitable and religious activities
- Minimum 2 trustees required
2. Society Registration
- Governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860
- Ideal for educational, cultural, and social welfare organizations
- Minimum 7 members required
3. Section 8 Company Registration
- Governed by the Companies Act, 2013
- Suitable for professionally managed NGOs
- Registered with the Registrar of Companies (ROC)
Step-by-Step Process for NGO Registration in India
Step 1: Decide the Type of NGO
Choose between Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on:
- Objectives
- Management structure
- Funding plans
Step 2: Choose NGO Name
- Name should be unique
- Must not violate Emblems & Names Act
- Should reflect charitable purpose
Step 3: Draft Legal Documents
Key documents include:
- Trust Deed (for Trust)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Rules & Regulations / Articles of Association (AOA)
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
- Identity & address proof of members/directors/trustees
- Registered office address proof
- Photographs
- Affidavit and declarations
Step 5: Application Filing
- File application with:
- Sub-Registrar (Trust)
- Registrar of Societies (Society)
- ROC via MCA portal (Section 8 Company)
Step 6: Verification & Approval
- Authorities verify documents
- Upon satisfaction, registration certificate is issued
Documents Required for NGO Registration
- PAN & Aadhaar of members
- Address proof of registered office
- MOA & AOA / Trust Deed
- Passport-size photographs
- No Objection Certificate (if applicable)
Timeframe for NGO Registration
- Trust Registration: 7–15 working days
- Society Registration: 15–30 working days
- Section 8 Company: 20–30 working days
(Timelines may vary by state)
Benefits of NGO Registration
- Legal recognition and credibility
- Eligibility for government grants
- CSR funding from companies
- Tax exemptions (12A & 80G)
- Ability to open bank accounts and receive donations
Post-Registration Compliances
- PAN & bank account opening
- 12A & 80G registration (for tax benefits)
- Annual filings and audits
- FCRA registration (for foreign donations, if applicable)
Penalties for Non-Registration
- Inability to receive grants or CSR funds
- No legal standing
- Risk of penalties and closure
- Loss of donor trust
Why Choose Saving Mantra for NGO Registration?
- Expert NGO compliance consultants
- End-to-end documentation support
- Affordable pricing
- Fast registration process
- Post-registration compliance guidance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is NGO registration mandatory in India?
Yes, registration is required to operate legally and receive funding.
Which NGO type is best in India?
Section 8 Company is preferred for transparency and CSR funding, while Trusts and Societies suit smaller initiatives.
Can an NGO earn profits?
No, NGOs cannot distribute profits; surplus must be used for objectives.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. NGO laws and procedures may vary by state and are subject to change. Saving Mantra recommends consulting qualified professionals before proceeding.