Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) Registration in India

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are essential to the welfare of society, as they work towards addressing social, economic, and environmental issues that affect communities. NGOs have been instrumental in providing services and support to underprivileged sections of society, and have been crucial in advocating for their rights.

If you are planning to start an NGO, one of the critical steps is to register it with the appropriate authorities. In India, the registration process for NGOs is governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860, the Trusts Act, 1882, and the Companies Act, 2013.

Here is a step-by-step guide on NGO registration in India:

1. Choose the Type of NGO: Before you start the registration process, you need to decide on the type of NGO you want to start. There are three types of NGOs in India: Society, Trust, and Section 8 Company. The type of NGO you choose depends on the objectives, resources, and activities of your organization.
2. Name Selection: Once you have decided on the type of NGO, you need to choose a name for it. The name should be unique and should not be similar to any existing organization. You can check the availability of the name on the MCA portal.
3. Prepare Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules and Regulations: The Memorandum of Association (MOA) and the Rules and Regulations are two important documents that define the objectives, rules, and regulations of the NGO. The MOA and Rules and Regulations should be drafted carefully as they form the basis of the organization’s operations.
4. Document Attestation: After the MOA and Rules and Regulations are prepared, they need to be attested by a Notary Public, Chartered Accountant, Advocate, or Gazetted Officer.
5. Apply for PAN and TAN: To open a bank account and carry out financial transactions, you need to apply for Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN). You can apply for these online.
6. Registration with Appropriate Authority: The next step is to register your NGO with the appropriate authority. The registration process varies depending on the type of NGO you choose. For Society, you need to register with the Registrar of Societies, for Trust, you need to register with the office of the Charity Commissioner, and for Section 8 Company, you need to register with the Registrar of Companies.
7. Apply for 80G and 12A Certificate: To avail tax benefits, you need to apply for 80G and 12A certificate. The 80G certificate allows donors to claim tax deduction for the donations made to your NGO, while the 12A certificate provides exemption from paying income tax on the NGO’s income.

In conclusion, registering an NGO can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is advisable to seek the help of a professional to ensure that the registration process is completed correctly and efficiently. With the right registration and certification, your NGO can make a significant impact on society and contribute to the betterment of our communities.