NGO Registration in India
Register your NGO in India and join the movement to make a meaningful impact on society
Introduction
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development in India. NGOs operate in diverse sectors such as education, healthcare, environment, human rights, and community development, working towards the betterment of society and the upliftment of marginalized communities. Registration of NGOs in India is governed by various laws and regulations to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal requirements.
LLP Compliance
Eligibility and Requirements
To register an NGO in India, certain eligibility criteria must be met:
01
Legal Structure: NGOs can be registered as Trusts, Societies, or Section 8 Companies under the respective laws governing each type of organization.
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Objectives: The NGO must have clear and specific objectives related to social welfare, charitable activities, or developmental initiatives aimed at benefiting the community or a specific target group.
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Members: NGOs can be formed by a group of individuals, associations, or organizations committed to a common cause or mission.
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Compliance: NGOs must comply with the laws and regulations governing their registration, operations, fundraising, financial management, and reporting.
Steps for Registration:
Select Legal Structure
Choose the appropriate legal structure for the NGO, i.e., Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company, based on the nature and scale of activities, governance preferences, and regulatory requirements.
Draft Memorandum and Rules
Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Rules and Regulations (RoR) or Bye-laws outlining the objectives, rules, and governance structure of the NGO.
Obtain Necessary Documents
Collect the required documents such as identity proof, address proof, and photographs of the founders or members, along with any other specific documents prescribed for the chosen legal structure.
Apply for Registration
Submit the registration application along with the prescribed fee and supporting documents to the respective authority responsible for registering NGOs under the chosen legal structure.
Verification and Approval
The registration authority will verify the application and documents submitted and issue a registration certificate upon approval, confirming the legal status of the NGO.
Obtain PAN and TAN
Once registered, apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) from the Income Tax Department for tax compliance purposes.
Open Bank Account
Open a bank account in the name of the NGO and operate it for managing funds and financial transactions related to NGO activities.
Advantages of NGO Registration
01
Legal Recognition: Registered NGOs enjoy legal recognition and legitimacy, enhancing their credibility, trustworthiness, and eligibility for grants, donations, and government schemes.
02
Tax Exemptions: NGOs registered for charitable purposes are eligible for tax exemptions under sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961, for contributions received and donations made for charitable activities.
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Access to Funding: Registered NGOs have access to a wide range of funding sources, including government grants, corporate donations, international aid, and philanthropic contributions.
04
Operational Sustainability: Registration provides a formal structure for governance, financial management, and accountability, ensuring operational sustainability and long-term impact.
Post-Incorporation Obligations
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Compliance with Regulations: NGOs must comply with the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing their registration, operations, fundraising, financial management, reporting, and disclosure requirements.
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Annual Reporting: NGOs are required to maintain proper accounts and records, prepare annual financial statements, and submit them to regulatory authorities within the prescribed timelines.
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Program Implementation: NGOs must execute their programs and activities effectively, efficiently, and transparently, ensuring alignment with their stated objectives and intended impact.
While NGO registration offers several benefits, organizations should prioritize their mission, values, and commitment to social impact over administrative formalities. It is essential to establish effective governance mechanisms, maintain transparency, build stakeholder trust, and monitor and evaluate program outcomes to maximize the NGO's effectiveness and sustainability.