Introduction
Are you passionate about social work and want to start an NGO in India? Understanding the legal process of NGO registration is crucial. This guide will walk you through the different types of NGO registration, required documents, and the step-by-step process.
Types of NGO Registration in India
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) in India can be registered under three legal frameworks:
1. Society Registration (Under Societies Registration Act, 1860)
- Minimum Members: 7 (State-level), 8 (National-level)
- Governing Body: Governing Council/Managing Committee
- Suitable for: Educational, cultural, and charitable societies
- Authority: Registrar of Societies (State-Level)
2. Trust Registration (Under Indian Trusts Act, 1882)
- Minimum Members: At least 2 trustees
- Governing Body: Board of Trustees
- Suitable for: Religious, social, and educational trusts
- Authority: Sub-Registrar Office
3. Section 8 Company Registration (Under Companies Act, 2013)
- Minimum Members: 2 (for private), 3 (for public)
- Governing Body: Board of Directors
- Suitable for: Non-profit organizations, corporate CSR initiatives
- Authority: Registrar of Companies (ROC)
Step-by-Step Process for NGO Registration in India
Step 1: Choose the Right NGO Structure
- Decide whether your NGO should be a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on your objectives and scale of operation.
Step 2: Name Your NGO
- The chosen name should be unique and not conflict with existing organizations.
- Check name availability with the Registrar of Societies or Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) for Section 8 Companies.
Step 3: Prepare Essential Documents
For Society Registration:
✅ Memorandum of Association (MOA) & Rules and Regulations
✅ Identity & Address Proofs of Founding Members
✅ PAN Card of Members
✅ Address Proof of Registered Office
For Trust Registration:
✅ Trust Deed (on Stamp Paper)
✅ Objectives of the Trust
✅ Identity & Address Proofs of Trustees
✅ PAN Card of Trustees
For Section 8 Company Registration:
✅ MOA & AOA (Memorandum & Articles of Association)
✅ Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) & Director Identification Number (DIN)
✅ Identity & Address Proofs of Directors
✅ PAN Card of Directors
Step 4: File the Registration Application
- Society: Submit to the Registrar of Societies (State-Level)
- Trust: Register at the local Sub-Registrar Office
- Section 8 Company: Apply through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal
Step 5: Obtain the Registration Certificate
- Once the documents are verified, the government issues a Certificate of Registration, making your NGO a legally recognized entity.
How to Register an NGO Logo or Symbol (Trademark Protection)
To protect your NGO’s identity, you can register your logo or symbol under the Trademark Act, 1999.
Steps for Logo Registration:
- Design a Unique Logo (JPEG/PNG format)
- Check Trademark Availability on the IP India Website
- Submit the Trademark Application under Class 45 (for social services)
- Pay the Required Fees (approx. ₹4,500 for individuals & ₹9,000 for companies)
- Receive Trademark Registration Certificate
Benefits of Registering an NGO in India
✔ Legal Recognition – Gain credibility and government support.
✔ Tax Exemptions – Eligible for 80G & 12A tax benefits.
✔ Eligibility for Grants & Funding – Apply for government and foreign funding (FCRA).
✔ Limited Liability – Protection from personal liability in financial matters.
Conclusion
Registering an NGO in India is a structured process but highly beneficial for those looking to make a social impact. Whether you choose Society, Trust, or Section 8 Company, each structure has its advantages. Are you planning to start an NGO? Let us know If you need expert assistance, feel free to reach out.