How to Start and Register an NGO: Complete Legal Guide
Starting a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in India is a purposeful decision. It supports causes that impact communities. I am here to guide you through the procedure to register NGO legally and correctly. At NGO Experts, we help individuals like you navigate every step. We ensure compliance and legal clarity throughout the process.
Understanding NGO and Its Purpose
An NGO works without the aim of profit. It can focus on education, healthcare, women empowerment, or environment. The main goal is social welfare. It works independently and with legal permission. Before you begin, choose your NGO's purpose clearly. That clarity will guide every next step in the registration.
Types of NGO Registrations in India
You can register an NGO as:
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Trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882
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Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
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Section 8 Company under the Companies Act, 2013
Each structure has its own legal value. At NGO Experts, I always help people choose the best form depending on their goal and area of operation.
Step 1: Decide the Name and Structure
Choosing a unique name is the first step. The name must not hurt religious sentiments. It should not resemble any government body. After that, you must choose the structure – Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company. Each has different registration needs and documentation.
I always recommend verifying the name availability. This avoids legal issues later. You can also consider Trademark Registration. It protects your NGO’s identity. NGO Experts also guide people in trademark filing and registration.
Step 2: Prepare the Documents
Here’s a list of basic documents you need:
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PAN card and Aadhaar card of members
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Address proof (utility bill/rent agreement)
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Passport-size photos
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Proposed name of NGO
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Draft of MOA (Memorandum of Association) and Rules
Make sure documents are valid and updated. Incorrect papers cause delays. We at NGO Experts review all files before submission.
Step 3: Draft the Legal Deed or MOA
For a Trust, you need a Trust Deed. For a Society, you require an MOA and Rules. For a Section 8 Company, MOA and AOA (Articles of Association) are compulsory.
The deed must include the NGO name, objectives, and rules of operation. It must also mention the number of trustees or members. I always guide our clients to keep the content clear and transparent.
Step 4: Get the Deed Notarized or Registered
For a Trust, you must register the Trust Deed at the local sub-registrar office. Two witnesses must be present during signing. Societies must submit their MOA to the Registrar of Societies in the state.
For Section 8 Company, you must apply online through the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal. It requires a digital signature and director identification number (DIN). At NGO Experts, we assist with all digital procedures and government portals.
Step 5: Apply for DARPAN NGO Registration
Every NGO must register on the NITI Aayog’s DARPAN Portal. It is called DARPAN NGO registration. It connects NGOs with government departments and ministries. You need:
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PAN details of NGO
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Registration Certificate (Trust/Society/Section 8)
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Details of office bearers
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Mobile number and email ID
Once verified, DARPAN provides a unique ID. Without this, you cannot apply for government grants or CSR funding. I ensure every NGO I support gets their DARPAN ID early in the process.
Step 6: Apply for PAN and Bank Account
You need a separate PAN for the NGO. It is different from personal PAN. Open a bank account in the name of the NGO. This account will be used for all transactions. A clear financial structure builds trust with donors and government bodies.
Step 7: Consider Other Legal Registrations
After registering the NGO, think about these:
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12A Registration for income tax exemption
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80G Certificate for donors to claim tax benefits
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Trademark Registration for name protection
At NGO Experts, I provide all these legal services. I understand how important it is for NGOs to be financially and legally safe.
Why Choose NGO Experts?
I work with NGO Experts, a trusted legal company. We assist with:
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Proper document filing
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Fast and clear registration
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DARPAN NGO registration support
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Trademark Registration help
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Post-registration compliance
Starting an NGO is a noble step. But every noble cause needs legal strength. That’s where we come in. I guide each client like a partner, not just a service provider.
Conclusion
The procedure to register NGO in India includes several steps. Name approval, document filing, MOA drafting, and DARPAN registration – all these matter. Missing any step can delay your NGO’s growth. I always recommend starting with legal clarity. That’s why NGO Experts exists — to walk with you on this legal journey.
Let your idea of change take legal shape. Reach out to us at NGO Experts. Together, we can create impact that lasts.