NGO Registration in India

NGO Registration in India

Starting a new NGO in India? Whether you’re passionate about education, women empowerment, rural development, or climate action - registration is your first legal step to building impact. This guide covers everything you need to know for fresh NGO registration.

What Is an NGO?

An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a non-profit entity that operates independently of government control to serve the public good. NGOs in India can be registered as:

  • Trust
  • Society
  • Section 8 Company

Types of NGO Structures You Can Register

Eligibility for Fresh NGO Registration

To register an NGO in India, you must:

  • Be 18 years or older
  • Have a clear objective of public service

Have at least 2 members (Trust), 7 members (Society), or 2 directors (Section 8 Company)

Step-by-Step NGO Fresh Registration Process:

Decide between Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on:

  • Scale of operations
  • Funding needs (FCRA, CSR, etc.)
  • Long-term goals

Step 2: Choose a Name

  • Should not conflict with existing registered names
  • For Section 8 companies, name approval is done via RUN (Reserve Unique Name) on the MCA portal

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

  • PAN & Aadhaar of all members
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Proof of registered office (electricity bill + NOC from landlord)
  • Trust Deed / MoA / AOA
  • ID and address proof of trustees/members/directors
  • Digital Signature Certificate (for Section 8)

Step 4: Draft Trust Deed / MoA & Rules

  • Trust: Prepare a Trust Deed
  • Society: Draft MoA and Rules & Regulations
  • Section 8: Prepare Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)

Step 5: Submit Application

  • Trust: Submit to local Sub-Registrar
  • Society: Registrar of Societies (Assam in your case)
  • Section 8: Online via MCA portal (SPICe+ form)

Step 6: Get Your NGO Registration Certificate

Once approved, you'll receive a Registration Certificate - your NGO’s legal identity.