India has a vibrant civil society where thousands of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in social development. From education and healthcare to rural upliftment and women empowerment, NGOs bridge the gap between government policies and community needs. If you are passionate about social service, registering an NGO gives your work legal recognition and credibility, allowing you to raise funds, access grants, and build partnerships.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to registering an NGO in India in 2025:
Step 1: Decide the Type of NGO
In India, NGOs can be registered under three structures:
- Trust – Governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882. Ideal for charitable activities.
- Society – Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. Suitable for educational, cultural, or welfare activities.
- Section 8 Company – Registered under the Companies Act, 2013. Ideal for large-scale operations and enjoys high credibility.
Step 2: Select a Unique Name
Choose a unique and meaningful name for your NGO. Ensure it does not infringe upon existing trademarks or resemble names of government bodies.
Step 3: Draft the Memorandum and Rules
Depending on the structure:
- Trust: Draft a Trust Deed.
- Society: Draft a Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Rules & Regulations.
- Section 8 Company: Draft Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA).
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Key documents include:
- Identity and address proof of members/founders.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Address proof of registered office.
- MoA, AoA, or Trust Deed depending on registration type.
Step 5: Apply for Registration
- Trust: Submit Trust Deed with the Registrar of Trusts.
- Society: Submit MoA and Rules with the Registrar of Societies.
- Section 8 Company: Apply online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal using the SPICe+ form.
Step 6: Obtain PAN, TAN, and Bank Account
After registration, apply for PAN and TAN, and open a bank account in the NGO’s name to manage funds transparently.
Step 7: Apply for 12A & 80G Registration
To avail tax exemptions and attract donations, apply for 12A (income tax exemption) and 80G (donor tax benefits) under the Income Tax Act.
Step 8: Comply with Annual Reporting
Once registered, NGOs must file annual returns, maintain proper accounts, and follow government compliance norms to continue operating legally.
Why Register an NGO?
- Legal recognition and credibility.
- Eligibility for government and international funding.
- Tax exemptions for both NGO and donors.
- Ability to collaborate with corporates under CSR initiatives.
Final Thoughts
Registering an NGO in India in 2025 may seem like a detailed process, but it provides long-term benefits for social entrepreneurs who want to create meaningful impact. By choosing the right structure and following the registration steps carefully, you can build a sustainable organization that drives change in society.
👉 To amplify your impact, you can collaborate with Aashritha Charitable Trust, a dedicated NGO working in healthcare, education, and community empowerment across India. Partnering with established NGOs ensures faster implementation of projects and wider outreach.
