Darpan Registration for NGOs in India

Darpan Registration is the process of registering your Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) or Voluntary Organization (VO) on the NGO Darpan portal managed by NITI Aayog. Darpan is a key digital platform that connects NGOs and VOs with various government agencies in India.

The Darpan portal aims to make India's non-profit sector more transparent and accountable. It also helps improve communication between the government and these organizations.

The portal is managed by NITI Aayog. NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the Indian government's primary policy think tank. The platform creates a centralized and comprehensive database of NGOs and VOs across the country.

Darpan Registration for NGOs & Trusts

When an NGO or Trust is first formed, it needs to be registered under specific laws, such as:

• Societies Registration Act, 1860,
• Indian Trusts Act, 1882, or
• Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.

This initial registration gives the organization its legal identity.

DARPAN registration is a separate process where an already registered NGO or voluntary organization gets listed on a central government portal. The main goal is to build a national database, increase transparency, and allow NGOs to apply for government schemes and funding.

It's crucial to understand that Darpan registration is not the same as the initial registration of an NGO or Trust.

Applicability of Darpan Registration

Darpan registration applies to:

• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): This term broadly covers organizations that are not part of the government and are typically involved in social welfare, development, or charitable activities.
• Voluntary Organizations (VOs): This is often used interchangeably with NGOs and refers to organizations that operate voluntarily, driven by a mission to serve the public.
• Trusts: Public charitable trusts are also eligible and encouraged to register on the Darpan portal.
• Societies: Organizations registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 (or state equivalents) can also register.
• Section 8 Companies: Non-profit companies registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, are also covered.

In short, any genuine non-profit or voluntary group looking for funding or partnerships from government departments should consider registering on the Darpan portal.

Key Points of NGO Darpan Portal Registration

Here are the key aspects to remember about NGO Darpan portal registration:

• Centralized Database: It serves as a national repository of information about NGOs/VOs in India, fostering transparency and accountability.
• Unique ID: Upon successful registration, each organization receives a unique Darpan ID. This ID is essential for applying to various government schemes and grants.
• Pre-requisite for Government Grants: Many government ministries and departments now mandate Darpan registration for NGOs/VOs applying for financial assistance or partnership in their programs.
• Enhanced Credibility: Registration on the portal can enhance the credibility of an organization in the eyes of government bodies and potential donors.
• Simplified Application Process: It aims to streamline the process of applying for government schemes by providing a common platform.
• Information Sharing: The portal allows for the sharing of information about an organization's activities, funding, and impact, promoting greater public trust.
• Free of Cost: The registration process on the NGO Darpan portal is free.

Governing Laws Behind Darpan Registration

While NITI Aayog manages the portal, the organizations themselves remain governed by the laws under which they were originally established.

These include:

• The Societies Registration Act, 1860: This act governs the registration and functioning of societies formed for literary, scientific, or charitable purposes. Many NGOs are registered as societies under this act.
• The Indian Trusts Act, 1882: This act deals with the law relating to private trusts and trustees. Public charitable trusts, however, are often governed by state-specific Public Trusts Acts (e.g., Bombay Public Trusts Act, 1950) or the general principles of equity.
• The Companies Act, 2013 (specifically Section 8): This section allows for the incorporation of companies with charitable objects, where any profits are applied solely for promoting those objects and no dividend is paid to their members. These are often referred to as Section 8 companies.
• The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA): Though it doesn't directly govern Darpan registration, this law is important for NGOs that receive money from foreign sources.
• RBI's KYC Directions, 2016: This act is part of India's broader efforts to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. These directions primarily mandate financial institutions (banks, NBFCs, etc.) to conduct due diligence on their customers.

NGOs and Trusts must follow the laws they are registered, along with the rules required for the Darpan registration.

Darpan registration offers numerous advantages for eligible NGOs, significantly boosting their operational effectiveness and public trust.

• Access to Government Funding and Schemes

Once registered, an NGO receives a Unique ID (UIN) required to apply for grants from various government ministries. This provides priority access to government funding, welfare programs, and keeps the NGO updated on new opportunities.

• Enhanced Credibility and Transparency

Completing the Darpan registration process helps NGOs gain official recognition from the government, making them more credible and accountable. This recognition is especially useful when applying for grants, building partnerships, or working with other groups.

Being listed on the Darpan portal signals trust and reliability to donors, sponsors, and the public. The portal also helps make things more transparent and improves coordination between the government and NGOs.

• Streamlined Communication with Government Bodies

Darpan establishes a direct and efficient channel of communication with various Ministries and Departments of the Government of India. It creates a centralized profile for an NGO, making it easier to share required documents with different government ministries without repeating submissions.

This centralization helps data and information flow easily and efficiently from the government to NGOs across the country.

• Facilitating 12A, 80G, and FCRA Compliance

While Darpan registration is not a direct mandatory requirement for obtaining 12A and 80G registrations, it significantly strengthens an application for these crucial tax benefits.

It is a mandatory prerequisite for FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration, which is essential for any NGO planning to receive foreign donations. Possessing a Darpan ID is also mandatory for eligibility to receive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding.

The following entities can register on the Darpan Portal:

• Indian NGOs, Trusts, and Section 8 Companies

Darpan registration is primarily intended for non-profit organizations in India. This includes legally recognized Trusts, Societies, and Section 8 Companies.

Note: Only organizations that are officially registered in India under the legal frameworks mentioned earlier can register on the Darpan portal. Unregistered groups or individuals are not eligible.

• Detailed Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Darpan registration, an organization must meet several specific criteria:

• The organization must be legally registered in India under one of the aforementioned acts, like the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
• It must be actively engaged in social welfare or development-related activities within India.
• The entity must operate strictly as a non-profit and non-political body.
• A valid Permanent Account Number (PAN) is required. This PAN must be in the name of the NGO itself: personal PANs of founders or directors are not allowed.
• The NGO must also possess a working bank account established in its official name.

Is Darpan Registration Mandatory for All NGOs?

No, Darpan Registration is not universally mandatory for every NGO operating in India. However, it becomes compulsory under several specific and common scenarios:

• Seeking Government Funding: It is mandatory for NGOs that wish to apply for government grants or funding from Central Ministries or Departments of the Government of India.
• Recognition for Public Projects: NGOs seeking official recognition for participating in public projects or welfare schemes must register.
• Visibility: NGOs need it to improve their visibility and prove they are active voluntary organizations listed in the government database.
• FCRA Registration: A Darpan ID is mandatory for NGOs applying for or already registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration, which is required to receive foreign donations.
• CSR Funding: It is required for eligibility to receive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding from companies, especially when filing Form CSR-1.
• Bank Account Opening: As per a Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular, NGOs are now required to update their Darpan ID when opening a bank account. This measure aims to make finances clearer.

The table below outlines the essential documents required for Darpan Registration:

The Darpan registration process is entirely online, designed for efficiency and accessibility. Here is a detailed guide to the online application process:

• Step 1: Visit the NGO-DARPAN Portal. Begin the registration process by visiting the official website: ngodarpan.gov.in.
• Step 2: Create an Account. Register as a new user by clicking on the "Sign Up" option. You will need to provide your official email ID and a valid mobile number. An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to both for verification and account activation.
• Step 3: Fill in Basic Organizational Details. After successfully logging in, proceed to enter your NGO's foundational information. This includes its legal name, type of organization (such as Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company), its registration number and date, and its Permanent Account Number (PAN).
• Step 4: Upload Required Documents. You must upload scanned copies of all necessary supporting documents (refer to the Documents section above for full details).
• Step 5: Enter Details of Key Members. Provide personal and professional information for at least three key functionaries of your organization. This usually includes the details like names, designations, contact details, Aadhaar numbers, and PANs of:
  • President,
  • Secretary, and
  • Treasurer.
• Step 6: Add Contact and Bank Details. Accurately input your organization's official communication details. This includes the registered office address, a valid mobile number, an official email ID, and your bank account details.
• Step 7: Submit and Await Verification. Before you submit, carefully check all the information you entered to make sure it is correct. Once you have verified that all information is correct, apply. It will then undergo a verification process by NITI Aayog.
• Step 8: Obtain a Unique ID (UIN). Upon successful verification and approval of your application, your NGO will be assigned a Unique ID (UIN). This ID is a critical identifier for all future interactions with government bodies and for accessing various benefits.

Understanding the financial and time commitments for Darpan registration is important for planning.

Darpan Registration Costs

Registration on the official NITI Aayog Darpan portal is completely free. However, this is separate from the costs associated with the initial legal formation of an NGO, Trust, or Section 8 Company.

Additionally, professional service providers like RegisterKaro charge a fee for their expert assistance in managing the free portal registration process on your behalf.

How Long Does the Darpan Registration Process Take: Timeline

The Darpan registration process is quick and usually takes around 3–5 days: if all the documents are correct and meet the necessary requirements, approval is granted promptly.

While the official timeline can vary, the verification process by NITI Aayog typically takes 7-10 working days, provided all documents are in order. Working with an expert can help avoid common errors and ensure faster processing.

Validity and Renewal Requirements For Darpan Registration

The NGO Darpan registration is generally considered a one-time transaction. It does not require annual renewal. In simpler terms, the registration is considered valid as long as the NGO continues to meet the requirements and maintains compliance with regulations.

However, this "lifetime" validity is dynamic and conditional. NGOs are required to update their details regularly on the portal. This includes:

• Updating the latest governing body details as soon as they change.
• Changes in operational sectors must also be updated to accurately reflect the organization's activities.
• Additionally, grant-related information should be reviewed and updated on an annual basis.
• If applicable, FCRA details must also be kept current.

Failure to follow these regular update rules can lead to registration suspension. NGOs should have proper internal systems in place to stay compliant.

Many application rejections or delays stem from easily avoidable administrative errors. Organizations should be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Mismatch Between PAN and Organization Name: Ensure that the PAN card details precisely match the organization's registered name. Even minor spelling errors or formatting differences can cause rejection.
• Using Incorrect Contact Information: Each NGO must have a unique mobile number and email ID for registration. Using the same contact details for multiple NGOs can lead to registration issues.
• Uploading Unclear or Incorrect Documents: All submitted documents, such as the registration certificate and PAN card, must be clear, correct, and in the prescribed PDF format. If the registration certificate is in a regional language, an officially translated and notarized copy should be provided along with the original.
• Incomplete Governing Body Details: It is mandatory to provide comprehensive details for a minimum of three key functionaries (e.g., Chairman, President, Secretary, or Treasurer), including their names, Aadhaar numbers, mobile numbers, and email addresses.
• Missing PAN in the NGO's Name: A common oversight is not obtaining a PAN card in the name of the organization. Personal PANs of founders or directors are not accepted; a PAN registered in the NGO's name is mandatory.
• Multiple Registrations with the Same PAN: Avoid attempting to register multiple NGOs using the same PAN, as this can cause conflicts.
• Ignoring Submission Status: After applying, organizations should regularly check the status to quickly respond to any requests for extra details or corrections.
• Unauthorized Signatories: Make sure the form is signed by someone officially authorized to represent the organization.
• Neglecting Profile Updates Post-Registration: Any changes in the governing body or operational sectors should be promptly updated on the NGO Darpan portal to keep records accurate and reflect current activities.

What Happens if You Don't Register Via the Darpan Portal When Required?

The consequences of not having the Darpan registration are significant and can severely impact operations:

• Inability to Apply for Government Funding: Without a Darpan ID, NGOs will be ineligible to apply for government grants or funding from Central Ministries or Departments.
• Lack of Recognition: The NGO will lack official recognition for participating in public projects or welfare schemes.
• Reduced Visibility: The organization will appear less visible as a legitimate and active voluntary group in the government's records.
• FCRA Ineligibility: It becomes impossible to apply for FCRA registration, which means the NGO cannot legally receive foreign contributions.
• CSR Funding Issues: The NGO may be ineligible for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding from corporates, as a Darpan ID is often required.
• Banking Hurdles: A significant recent development is that NGOs may face difficulties opening or maintaining bank accounts, as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) now requires a Darpan ID for this purpose.
• Increased Paperwork: Organizations may face more paperwork for future applications, as their key information is not centralized in a single government-backed portal.
• Loss of Trust and Credibility: Donors, corporations, and the media may view the NGO with less trust due to a lack of official government recognition and transparency.
• Potential Blacklisting: Non-compliance with related regulations, such as financial transparency norms or FCRA rules, can lead to blacklisting by NGO Darpan and NITI Aayog.
• Legal Repercussions: Inconsistencies or non-compliance can lead to legal trouble, such as show-cause notices from authorities, court cases, or cancellation of important registrations like 12A and 80G for related violations.

Addressing Application Rejection in the Darpan Registration Process

If a Darpan application is rejected, it is important to take structured steps to resolve the issue:

• Carefully review the specific reasons for rejection provided by the portal. The rejection notice will detail why the application was not approved.
• Correct any identified errors or missing information. This might involve updating organizational details or providing clearer documents.
• Reapply with the corrected documents and information to avoid further issues. Learning from the rejection is key to a successful reapplication.
• If the rejection reason is unclear or if the application remains pending for an extended period, contact the NGO Darpan helpdesk for assistance and guidance.

Upon successful registration, NGOs receive a digital credential that confirms their status, known as the Darpan Registration Certificate. First, it's crucial to understand what a UIN is and why it is important.

What is a Darpan ID (UIN)?

The Darpan ID is a Unique Identification Number (UIN) that the NITI Aayog assigns to each registered NGO. This unique ID serves as official identification for an NGO within the government system. It is required to access various government funding opportunities and demonstrate the NGO's legitimacy and credibility.

A Darpan ID sample typically includes a state code (e.g., RJ for Rajasthan), the year of registration, and a unique numerical code (e.g., RJ/2024/1234567). It is important to note that the Darpan ID is distinct from the User ID, which is chosen by the applicant and used for logging into the portal.

How to Download and Print Your Darpan Certificate?

Here is a step-by-step process to download and print the certificate:

1. Visit the NGO Darpan Portal: Go to the official website at ngodarpan.gov.in.
2. Log in to your Account: Use the registered email ID and password to log in.
3. Navigate to the Certificate Section: Once logged in, go to the dashboard. Look for the "Darpan registration section" or a "Download Certificate" option.
4. Select Your Organization (if applicable): If the login credentials link to more than one NGO, the site may display several organizations. Select the appropriate organization to download the certificate.
5. Generate and Download the Certificate: Click on "Download Certificate" or a similar link. The system will automatically generate a PDF version of the certificate. Click on this link to save the PDF file to the device.