Comprehensive Guide to NGO Registration

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a pivotal role in societal development, providing services, and supporting causes that benefit communities. To operate legally and effectively in India, NGOs need to be registered under one of the various forms available. Additionally, registering with NITI Aayog enhances transparency and opens doors to government grants and collaborations. This guide provides a detailed step-by-step process for registering an NGO and obtaining NITI Aayog registration.

Step-by-Step Guide to NGO Registration

Registering a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in India is a crucial step for any group or individual aiming to formalize their efforts in promoting social, cultural, legal, or environmental goals. The process of NGO registration not only provides legal recognition but also enhances the organization’s credibility, making it eligible for government grants, tax exemptions, and international funding. This guide offers a detailed overview of the registration procedures for Trusts, Societies, and Section 8 Companies, ensuring that you can navigate the process of NGO registration smoothly and effectively.

1. Trust Registration

A Trust is an arrangement where a trustee holds property as its nominal owner for the good of one or more beneficiaries.

Steps for Trust Registration:

1. Draft the Trust Deed: Outline the objectives of the Trust, the mode of administration, and the details of the trustees in the Trust Deed. Clearly state the purpose for which the trust is being created.
2. Choose the Settler and Trustees: Select the Settler who sets up the trust and appoint the trustees to manage it. Include the names, addresses, and occupations of all trustees in the deed.
3. Prepare the Trust Deed on Stamp Paper: Prepare the Trust Deed on a stamp paper of appropriate value as prescribed by the Stamp Act of the respective state.
4. Submit the Trust Deed to the Registrar: Present the Trust Deed, along with two witnesses, to the local registrar for registration. Ensure the settler and trustees are present at the registrar’s office during submission.
5. Obtain the Registration Certificate: Once the registrar verifies the deed and other details, the Trust will be registered, and a registration certificate will be issued.

2. Society Registration

A Society is an association of individuals united for a common purpose, usually for promoting charitable activities, fine arts, science, literature, or knowledge.

Steps for Society Registration:

1. Choosing a Unique Name: The name of the Society should be unique and not similar to any other registered Society. It should not violate the provisions of the Emblems and Names Act, 1950.
2. Drafting the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Rules and Regulations: The MoA should include the Society’s name, objectives, registered office address, details of the members of the governing body, and the roles of office bearers. The Rules and Regulations should define the operational framework, including membership eligibility, meeting schedules, and quorum requirements.
3. Preparing the Documentation: Documents include the MoA, Rules and Regulations, and an affidavit sworn by the President or Secretary of the Society stating the adherence to the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
4. Submitting the Documents to the Registrar: The MoA and Rules and Regulations, along with other necessary documents, should be submitted to the Registrar of Societies of the respective state.
5. Obtaining the Registration Certificate: After verification of documents, the Registrar will issue a certificate of registration, officially recognizing the Society.

3. Section 8 Company Registration

Forming a Section 8 Company is an excellent choice for individuals and groups dedicated to promoting charitable activities. These activities include education, social welfare, research, and environmental protection. The process of Section 8 Company registration is governed by the Companies Act, 2013. It ensures that your organization operates with the benefits of limited liability and a structured corporate framework. The focus remains on non-profit objectives. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step of the process. It covers obtaining the necessary digital signatures and director identification numbers. Finally, it explains the issuance of the Certificate of Incorporation.

Steps for Section 8 Company Registration:

1. Apply for Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN): All proposed directors must obtain DSC and DIN.
2. Name Reservation: File Form INC-1 to reserve a unique name for the company. Ensure the name reflects the objectives of the company and adheres to the naming guidelines.
3. Drafting the MoA and AoA: The Memorandum of Association (MoA) specifies the objectives of the company, and the Articles of Association (AoA) define the rules and regulations for the company’s operation.
4. Filing Forms with the Registrar: Submit Form INC-12 along with the MoA, AoA, and other required documents to the Registrar of Companies (RoC).
5. License Issuance: Upon review, the Registrar will issue a license under Section 8, followed by the Certificate of Incorporation.

Process of NITI Aayog Registration

The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) provides NGOs/VOs (Voluntary Organizations) with a Unique ID.Which enhances transparency and helps in availing government grants.

Steps for NITI Aayog Registration:

1. Access the NGO Darpan Portal: Visit the NGO Darpan Portal at NGO darpan
2. Create an Account: Click on “Sign Up” and fill in the required details such as the name of the NGO, email ID, and mobile number.
3. Verify Email and Mobile Number: The system will send a verification link to the provided email ID and a verification code to the mobile number.
4. 4o. Complete the verification process.
5. Login to the Portal: Use the registered email ID and password to log in to the portal.
6. Fill in the Registration Form: Enter the details about the NGO, such as the name, address, registration details, PAN number, and details of the Chief Functionary.
7. Upload Required Documents: Upload necessary documents, including the Registration Certificate of the NGO, PAN Card of the NGO, and details of the Chief Functionary.
8. Submit the Form: After filling in all the details and uploading the documents, submit the form.
9. Receive Unique ID: After processing the application, the system will generate a Unique ID and send it to the registered email ID.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the benefits of registering an NGO? Registering an NGO provides legal recognition, enhances credibility. Its allows for tax exemptions .Its makes it eligible for government grants and funding from international agencies.

2. What is the difference between a Trust, Society, and Section 8 Company? A Trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages assetsA Society is an association of individuals with a common goal, often charitable. A Section 8 Company operates as a non-profit organization under the Companies Act, 2013. With objectives similar to those of a Society but within a corporate structure.

3. How long does it take to register an NGO in India?

The time frame for registering an NGO varies based on the type of registration. Trust and Society registration usually takes 2-3 weeks. Section 8 Company registration may take 1-2 months due to additional compliance requirements.

4. Is NITI Aayog registration mandatory for NGOs?

Although NITI Aayog registration is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Furthermore, it enhances the NGO’s credibility, transparency, and eligibility for government grants and schemes.

5. What documents are required for NITI Aayog registration?

Include the NGO’s Registration Certificate, PAN Card, details of the Chief Functionary, and other relevant details about the organization.

Conclusion

Registering an NGO and obtaining NITI Aayog registration are crucial steps. For any organization looking to operate effectively and transparently in India. By following the detailed procedures outlined in this guide. NGOs can ensure compliance with legal requirements and enhance their potential for funding and collaboration.

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