These documents are your organization’s identity card—proof of your existence, purpose, and activities. The requirements are straightforward, and this guide will walk you through everything you need.

In the following sections, we’ll discuss the essential documents you must submit documents required for NGO Darpan registration. We’ll explain each document’s significance and importance and offer tips for ensuring its accuracy and completion.

Organizing your documents beforehand lets you easily breeze through the online application process and register your NGO. So, let’s start gathering the necessary paperwork for your successful documents required for NGO Darpan registration!

What is NGO Darpan?

NGO Darpan stands for Non-Governmental Organization Darpan. It is a portal launched by the Indian government’s NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) to facilitate the registration and networking of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in India. NGO Darpan provides a platform for NGOs to register, update their information, and collaborate with government agencies and other NGOs. It aims to create transparency and accountability in the NGO sector by maintaining a comprehensive database of registered organizations. Through this portal, NGOs can access various government schemes, grants, and other resources, thus promoting better coordination between the government and civil society organizations for social development initiatives.

Eligibility for NGO Darpan Registration

Legal Status: The organization must be legally registered under one of the following acts:

• Indian Trust Act, 1882
• Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860 
• Companies Act, 2013 (Section 8 companies)
• Any other relevant state or central government act to register non-profit organizations.

Operational Presence: The NGO must have a demonstrated operational presence in India. It should actively participate in social, cultural, economic, educational, or welfare activities that benefit society.

Non-profit Nature: The organization should operate on a non-profit basis, meaning its primary objective should be social welfare and not profit generation for its members.

Compliance: NGOs must comply with all relevant laws and regulations governing their operations, including tax regulations and reporting requirements.

Submission of Documents: NGOs are typically required to submit certain documents during the registration process, which may include:

• Registration certificate under the relevant act.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) or Trust Deed.
• PAN Card of the organization.
• Address proof of the registered office
• Audited financial statements.
• Any other documents as specified by the registration authority.

Validity: It’s important to note that documents required for NGO Darpan registration are typically valid for a specified period, after which NGOs may need to renew their registration to maintain their status on the platform.

These are general eligibility criteria, and specific requirements may vary based on the guidelines provided by NITI Aayog or the relevant government authorities overseeing NGO registration in India. Prospective NGOs should refer to the official NGO Darpan portal or consult with legal experts for detailed information regarding registration eligibility and procedures.

Documents Required for NGO Darpan Registration

To register on the documents required for the NGO Darpan registration portal, organizations must provide several documents demonstrating their legal status, operational presence, and compliance with regulations. The records required may vary depending on the registration authority’s guidelines and the type of organization. However, there is often a demand for the following documents:

Registration Certificate: A copy of the registration certificate issued under the relevant act, such as:

• Trusts Act, 1882
• Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860
• Companies Act, 2013 (for Section 8 companies)
• Any other applicable state or central government act to register non-profit organizations.

Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) or Trust Deed:

Copies of these documents outline the organization’s objectives, rules, and regulations. This applies to societies, trusts, and section 8 companies.

PAN Card: Copy of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card issued by the Income Tax Department in the organization’s name.

Address Proof: Document(s) verifying the registered office address of the organization. This may include:

Audited Financial Statements: Copies of audited financial statements for the past few years, including:

• Balance sheet
• Income statement
• Auditor’s report
• Receipt and payment account (for trusts and societies)

Board Resolution: A resolution passed by the organization’s governing body authorizing the registration of NGO Darpan and designating individuals responsible for managing the registration process.

Certificate of Exemption (if applicable): If the organization has been granted tax exemption under sections 12A, 80G, or any other relevant provisions of the Income Tax Act, a copy of the certificate should be provided.

Any Other Relevant Documents: Additional documents may be required based on specific registration authority requirements or directives.

Ensuring that all documents provided are accurate, up-to-date, and compliant with the registration guidelines is essential. Organizations should refer to the official documents required for the NGO Darpan registration portal or consult legal experts for detailed information regarding document requirements and registration procedures.

The NGO Darpan Registration Process

The registration process for NGO Darpan involves several steps to ensure that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can effectively register and update their information on the portal. Here’s a summary of the usual registration procedure.

Visit the NGO Darpan Portal: NGOs interested in registering on NGO Darpan should visit the portal’s official website.

Create an Account: The first step is to create an account on the NGO Darpan portal. To create an account, NGOs must provide basic information such as their organization’s name, contact details, and email address.

Login to the Portal: Once the account is created, NGOs can log in to the NGO Darpan portal using the provided credentials.

Complete the Registration Form: NGOs must fill out the registration form available on the portal. The registration form usually asks for information such as:

• Organization’s name, address, and contact information
• Legal registration details (registration number, date of registration, etc.)
• Type of organization (trust, society, section 8 company, etc.)
• Details of key office bearers or trustees
• Objectives and activities of the organization
• Financial information (annual budget, sources of funding, etc.

Upload Required Documents: NGOs are required to upload scanned copies of the necessary documents, such as:

• Registration certificate under the relevant act
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) or Trust Deed
• PAN card
• Address proof of the registered office
• Audited financial statements
• Board resolution authorizing registration of NGO Darpan
• Certificate of tax exemption (if applicable)
• Any other documents as specified by the registration authority

Review and Submit: After filling out the registration form and uploading the required documents, NGOs should review all the provided information for accuracy and completeness. Once satisfied, they can submit the registration form through the portal.

Verification and Approval: The registration details and documents submitted by the NGO are reviewed by the registration authority, usually NITI Aayog. The authority verifies the information provided and ensures compliance with the registration guidelines.

Confirmation and Registration: Upon successful verification, the NGO receives registration confirmation on NGO Darpan. The organization’s details are then included in the NGO Darpan database, making it accessible to government agencies and other stakeholders.

Regular Updates: NGOs should ensure that their information on NGO Darpan is updated by making necessary updates whenever their organization’s details or activities change.

NGOs must follow the registration process carefully and provide accurate information and documents to complete the registration successfully. Additionally, they should adhere to any guidelines or directives the registration authority offers during the process.

Benefits of NGO Darpan Registration

Registering on NGO Darpan offers several benefits for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in India. Some of the key benefits include:

Visibility and Credibility: NGO Darpan registration enhances an organization’s visibility and credibility by listing it in a government-maintained database. This can help build trust with stakeholders, including donors, partners, and beneficiaries.

Access to Government Schemes and Grants: Registered NGOs can access information about government schemes, grants, and funding opportunities through the NGO Darpan portal. This facilitates collaboration with government agencies and enables NGOs to leverage government resources for their social development initiatives.

Networking and Collaboration: NGO Darpan provides a platform for networking and collaboration among NGOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Registered organizations can connect, share best practices, and explore partnership opportunities for collective impact.

Transparency and Accountability: Registration on NGO Darpan promotes transparency and accountability in the NGO sector. By maintaining updated information about their activities, governance structure, and financials on the portal, NGOs demonstrate their commitment to transparency and good governance practices.

Government Recognition: The documents required for NGO Darpan registration signify government recognition of an organization’s legal status and compliance with regulatory requirements. This can facilitate interactions with government authorities and streamline administrative processes, such as obtaining project permissions or clearances.

Information Exchange: The portal is a valuable resource for accessing information related to the documents required for NGO Darpan registration, policies, guidelines, and relevant news updates. Through the NGO Darpan platform, NGOs can stay informed about regulatory changes and sectoral developments.

Capacity Building: The documents required for NGO Darpan registration may offer capacity-building initiatives, training programs, workshops, and webinars to support the organizational development and effectiveness of registered NGOs. These capacity-building efforts aim to strengthen NGOs capabilities in delivering impactful social interventions.

Facilitation of Social Impact Assessment: Registered NGOs can use the NGO Darpan platform to report on their social impact and outcomes achieved through their projects and programs. This facilitates monitoring and evaluation efforts, enabling stakeholders to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of NGO interventions.

Overall, NGO Darpan registration provides various benefits that empower NGOs to enhance their effectiveness, visibility, and impact in contributing to India’s social development and welfare initiatives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NGO Darpan is a crucial platform for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in India. It offers numerous benefits that contribute to its effectiveness, credibility, and impact in the social development sector. Through registration on NGO Darpan, NGOs gain visibility, credibility, and access to government resources, schemes, and funding opportunities. 

The platform also facilitates networking, collaboration, and information exchange among NGOs and other stakeholders, promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance practices within the sector. Furthermore, the documents required for NGO Darpan registration support capacity building and social impact assessment efforts, empowering NGOs to strengthen their organizational capabilities and demonstrate their contributions to positive social change. 

NGO Darpan is vital in fostering a conducive environment for NGOs to thrive, innovate, and drive sustainable development initiatives to benefit communities across India.

Additional Considerations:

In addition to the benefits outlined earlier, there are several additional considerations for NGOs regarding their registration and participation on the NGO Darpan platform:

Data Privacy and Security: NGOs should be mindful of data privacy and security concerns when providing information and documents required for NGO Darpan registration. It’s essential to ensure that sensitive information is protected and handled by applicable data protection laws and regulations.

Regular Updates and Compliance: Registered NGOs should regularly update their information on the documents required for NGO Darpan registration to reflect changes in their organizational details, activities, or governance structure. Compliance with regulatory requirements and adherence to the guidelines provided by NITI Aayog or other relevant authorities are crucial for maintaining registration status.

Engagement with Stakeholders: NGOs can leverage NGO Darpan as a platform for engaging with various stakeholders, including government agencies, donors, beneficiaries, and other NGOs. Active participation and collaboration can enhance the effectiveness and impact of NGO initiatives and foster synergies for addressing social challenges.

Monitoring and Evaluation: NGOs should use NGO Darpan to facilitate monitoring and evaluation of their projects and programs, track progress, and measure outcomes against set objectives. This data-driven approach enables NGOs to assess the effectiveness of their interventions and make informed decisions about future initiatives.

Capacity Development: NGOs can use capacity-building opportunities provided through documents required for NGO Darpan registration to enhance their organizational capacities, leadership skills, and programmatic effectiveness. Participation in training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing activities can contribute to continuous learning and improvement within the NGO sector.

Adherence to Ethical Standards: NGOs should uphold ethical standards and principles of integrity, accountability, and transparency in their operations and interactions facilitated through NGO Darpan. Upholding these values strengthens trust with stakeholders and enhances the credibility of the NGO sector.

By considering these additional factors, NGOs can maximize the benefits of their registration on the documents required for NGO Darpan registration and contribute effectively to advancing social development goals in India.

In this discussion, we’ll talk about the benefits of 12A and 80G registration and the differences between 12A and 80G registrations, like what they’re for, who can get them, and how they affect organizations and donors. Understanding these registrations is important for both organizations that want tax exemptions and donors who want to support causes while also getting tax breaks in India.

What is 12A Registration?

“12A registration” typically refers to a provision under the Income Tax Act of India. This provision allows charitable or non-profit organizations to apply for Registration to become exempt from paying taxes on their income. Once registered under section 12A, these organizations can receive donations and grants without being taxed on those funds. This Registration is crucial for such organizations to operate effectively and attract financial support for their charitable activities.

What is 80G Registration?

“80G registration” refers to a provision in the Income Tax Act of India. Under this provision, donors who contribute to charitable or non-profit organizations registered under section 80G are eligible for tax deductions. Organizations with 80G registration can issue tax exemption certificates to donors, allowing them to claim deductions on their taxable income for the amount donated. This Registration encourages individuals and businesses to support charitable causes by providing them with tax benefits.

Benefits of 12A and 80G Registration

Tax Exemption for Donors: One of the primary benefits of 80G registration is that it allows donors to claim tax deductions on donations made to the registered organization. This incentive encourages individuals and businesses to contribute to charitable causes.

Attracting Donations: 80G registration enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of an organization in the eyes of potential donors. Many donors prefer to donate to organizations that have this Registration, as it assures them that their contributions will be used for genuine charitable purposes.

Funding Opportunities: Being registered under the benefits of 12A and 80G registration makes an organization eligible for various funding opportunities from government agencies, corporate foundations, and other grant-making institutions. It opens up avenues for financial support beyond individual donations.

Exemption from Income Tax: Under Section 11 of the Income Tax Act, organizations registered under 12A are exempt from paying income tax on their surplus income, which is applied toward charitable activities. This exemption allows registered organizations to allocate more resources to their core missions.

Validity and Renewal: Once registered under 12A and 80G, the benefits are usually valid for a certain period, after which the organization needs to apply for renewal. However, having these registrations can provide long-term benefits in terms of sustained financial support and operational stability.

Enhanced Transparency: Organizations seeking the benefits of 12A and 80G registration undergo scrutiny by tax authorities, which ensures transparency in their operations and financial management. This scrutiny helps build trust among stakeholders and donors.

Compliance with Legal Requirements: Obtaining the benefits of 12A and 80G registration ensures that the organization complies with the legal requirements set forth by the Income Tax Department of India. This compliance not only facilitates smooth operations but also protects the organization from potential legal issues.

Overall, the benefits of 12A and 80G registrations offer numerous advantages to charitable and non-profit organizations, ranging from financial benefits for donors to enhanced credibility and access to funding opportunities. These registrations play a vital role in supporting the growth and sustainability of such organizations in India.

Eligibility for 12A and 80G Registration

The eligibility criteria for obtaining 12A and 80G registrations in India typically include the following:

Non-Profit Nature: The organization must be established and operated for charitable, religious, educational, scientific, or literary purposes. It should not be engaged in any activities for profit-making or personal gain.

Legal Structure: The organization must be constituted legally, either as a trust, society, or a Section 8 company (under the Companies Act, 2013). It should have a clear governing structure with defined roles and responsibilities.

Registration: Prior Registration under the relevant legal entity is necessary before applying for 12A and 80G registrations. For example, a trust needs to be registered under the Indian Trusts Act of 1882 or a society under the Societies Registration Act of 1860.

Compliance with Laws: The organization must comply with all relevant laws and regulations, including the Income Tax Act 1961 and any other applicable laws governing non-profit organizations in India.

Activities for Public Benefit: The activities undertaken by the organization should be aimed at providing public benefit and should not serve the interests of a specific group or individual. These activities may include education, healthcare, relief of poverty, advancement of religion, or any other charitable purposes.

Maintaining Books of Accounts: The organization must maintain proper books of accounts and financial records, which are audited annually by a qualified chartered accountant. These records should accurately reflect the income and expenditure related to charitable activities.

Exemption from Certain Activities: Organizations engaged in certain activities, such as promoting a particular religion, carrying out political activities, or generating income from business activities not related to their main objectives, may not be eligible for 12A and 80G registrations.

Meeting these eligibility criteria is crucial for non-profit organizations seeking the benefits of 12A and 80G registrations, as it ensures compliance with legal requirements and enhances the credibility of the organization in the eyes of donors and regulatory authorities.

The Process to 12A and 80G Registration 

The process of obtaining 12A and 80G registrations in India involves several steps and requires careful attention to documentation and compliance. Here’s a basic framework of the procedure.

Preparation of Documents: Gather all the necessary documents required for Registration, including the organization’s constitution and bylaws, memorandum of association (for companies), trust deed (for trusts), or rules and regulations (for societies). Ensure that these documents are drafted in accordance with the relevant laws.

Application for Registration: Obtain the application form for 12A Registration (Form 10) and 80G registration (Form 10G) from the Income Tax Department’s website or the local tax office. Fill out the forms completely and accurately, providing details about the organization’s activities, objectives, financial statements, and governing body.

Submission of Documents: Prepare a set of supporting documents to be submitted along with the application forms. This may include copies of the organization’s registration certificate, PAN card, audited financial statements, list of donors and their contributions, and a detailed project report outlining the organization’s activities.

Payment of Fees: Pay the prescribed fee for processing the registration application. The fee amount may vary depending on the nature and size of the organization.

Submission to the Tax Office: Submit the completed application forms along with the supporting documents and fee payment to the designated Income Tax Officer (ITO) or the relevant tax office having jurisdiction over the organization’s registered address.

Verification and Scrutiny: The tax authorities will scrutinize the application and conduct a thorough examination of the organization’s activities, finances, and compliance with legal requirements. This may involve site visits and interviews with the organization’s representatives.

Issuance of Registration Certificates: If satisfied with the organization’s eligibility and compliance, the Income Tax Department will issue the registration certificates for the benefits of 12A and 80G registration. These certificates will specify the validity period and any conditions or restrictions attached to the registrations.

Renewal and Compliance: Ensure timely renewal of the registration certificates before they expire, typically every few years. Maintain proper records of income and expenditure related to charitable activities and comply with all reporting requirements specified by the Income Tax Department.

Publicize the Registrations: Once obtained, publicize the benefits of 12A and 80G registrations to potential donors and stakeholders to enhance credibility and attract support for the organization’s charitable activities.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified legal or tax advisor familiar with the registration process to ensure compliance with all requirements and smooth processing of the application.

Documents Required for 12A and 80G Registration 

For both 12A and 80G registration in India, you’ll need to provide several documents to support your application. Here’s a list of typical documents required:

Constitution Documents: Depending on the type of organization (trust, society, or section 8 company), you’ll need to provide the relevant constitution documents such as the trust deed, memorandum of association, or rules and regulations.

PAN Card: A copy of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card issued by the Income Tax Department in the name of the organization.

Registration Certificate: A copy of the registration certificate of the organization under the applicable law (e.g., Indian Trusts Act, 1882; Societies Registration Act, 1860; Companies Act, 2013).

Audited Financial Statements: Copies of audited financial statements, including the balance sheet, income and expenditure statement, and audit report for the last three years. These documents should be certified by a chartered accountant.

Activity Report: A detailed report outlining the activities and objectives of the organization, including the beneficiaries served and the impact achieved.

List of Office Bearers: A list of the organization’s office bearers, including their names, addresses, occupations, and contact details.

List of Donors: If applicable, a list of donors along with their addresses and the amount of donation received.

Project Reports: If the organization has undertaken specific projects or initiatives, provide detailed project reports highlighting the objectives, activities, outcomes, and beneficiaries.

Bank Account Details: Details of the organization’s bank account, including the bank name, branch address, account number, and IFSC code.

Application Forms: Completed application forms for 12A (Form 10) and 80G (Form 10G) obtained from the Income Tax Department’s website or local tax office.

Ensure that all documents are duly attested, signed, and submitted in the prescribed format specified by the Income Tax Department.

 It’s advisable to consult with a tax advisor or legal expert to ensure that all necessary documents are provided and the application process is followed correctly.

Fees of 12A and 80G Registration 

The fees for obtaining 12A and 80G registration in India can vary depending on factors such as the nature and size of the organization, as well as any updates in government regulations. Generally, there are fees associated with processing the application for both registrations.

For 12A Registration, there is usually an application fee that needs to be paid along with the submission of Form 10. This fee may vary but typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand Indian Rupees.

Similarly, for 80G registration, there is also an application fee that needs to be paid along with the submission of Form 10G. Again, the fee can vary, and it is advisable to check the latest fee schedule published by the Income Tax Department or consult with a tax advisor for the exact amount.

It’s essential to ensure that the application fees are paid correctly and that all required documentation is submitted along with the application forms to avoid any delays or complications in the registration process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining 12A and 80G registrations in India offers significant benefits for charitable and non-profit organizations. These benefits of 12a and 80g registrations not only provide tax exemptions for donors but also enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of the organization, attracting more support and funding opportunities.

The process of obtaining these registrations involves thorough documentation, compliance with legal requirements, and scrutiny by the tax authorities. By fulfilling the eligibility criteria and submitting the necessary documents, organizations can avail themselves of the tax benefits and establish themselves as legitimate entities dedicated to serving the public good.

However, it’s essential to maintain proper records, comply with reporting requirements, and ensure timely renewal of the registrations to sustain the benefits over time. 

Overall, the benefits of 12A and 80G registrations play a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainability in the non-profit sector, thereby fostering a culture of philanthropy and social responsibility in India.