NITI Aayog Registration is essential for NGOs, Trusts, and Section 8 Companies in India. It provides government recognition and eligibility for grants, CSR funds, and tax exemptions. Registration under NITI Aayog’s NGO DARPAN portal is mandatory for organizations seeking funding from government schemes, CSR initiatives, and foreign contributions.
What is NITI Aayog? (Definition & Full Form)
NITI Aayog Full Form
NITI Aayog stands for National Institution for Transforming India.
What is NITI Aayog Registration?
It is an online registration process for NGOs and Section 8 Company through the NGO DARPAN portal. This ensures transparency and accountability in nonprofit activities and helps them receive government recognition and funding.
Why is NITI Aayog Registration Important for NGOs?
• Mandatory for government grants and schemes.
• Required for CSR-1 registration to receive CSR funds from companies.
• Essential for 12A & 80G tax exemptions.
• It is necessary for FCRA registration to receive foreign donations.
• Improves credibility and transparency of the nonprofit organization.
Eligibility for NITI Aayog Registration
The following entities can apply for NITI Aayog Registration:
• Section 8 Companies under the Companies Act, 2013.
• Trusts under the Indian Trust Act, 1882.
• Societies under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Step-by-Step Process for NITI Aayog Registration
Step 1: Visit the NITI Aayog NGO DARPAN Portal
• Go to https://ngodarpan.gov.in.
• Click on "Register" to begin the process.
Step 2: Create an Account
• Enter organization details such as:
-NGO Name
-PAN Details
-Email and Mobile Number
-Registered Address
Step 3: Verify OTP
• A One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent to your email and mobile number.
Step 4: Submit Organization Details
• Upload key documents:
-Registration Certificate (Trust Deed / MOA & AOA for Section 8 Companies)
-List of Board Members
-PAN of the NGO
Step 5: Submit Application and Track Status
• After submitting all details, you will receive a Unique ID.
• You can track your NITI Aayog Registration status on the NGO DARPAN portal.
Benefits of NITI Aayog Registration
1. Access to Government Grants & Funding
NGOs registered with NITI Aayog can apply for government schemes and financial aid for social activities.
2. Eligibility for CSR-1 Registration & CSR Funds
Businesses donate CSR funds to NGOs with CSR-1 registration. NITI Aayog registration is a prerequisite for CSR-1 approval.
3. Tax Exemptions Under 12A & 80G Registration
• 12A registration provides income tax exemption for NGOs.
• 80G registration allows donors to claim tax deductions.
4. FCRA Registration for Foreign Donations
NITI Aayog Registration is mandatory before applying for FCRA registration to receive foreign contributions legally.
5. Improved Credibility & Transparency
Registered NGOs are listed on the NGO DARPAN portal, enhancing trust among donors and stakeholders.
12A and 80G Registration for Tax Benefits
What is 12A & 80G Registration?
• 12A Registration – Provides 100% tax exemption for NGOs.
• 80G Registration – Allows donors to claim tax deductions under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
12A and 80G Registration Process Online
• Create an account on the Income Tax e-filing portal.
• Fill Form 10A (for 12A) and Form 10G (for 80G).
• Upload PAN, bank details, and financial reports.
• Submit the application and track the approval status online.
12A and 80G Registration Fees
There are no government fees, but professional consultation charges may apply.
CSR-1 Registration for CSR Funds
What is CSR? (CSR Meaning & Definition)
CSR Full Form: Corporate Social Responsibility.
Companies meeting the following criteria must spend 2% of their net profits on CSR activities:
• Net worth of ₹500 crore or more
• Turnover of ₹1,000 crore or more
• Net profit of ₹5 crore or more
CSR-1 Registration Process
• File Form CSR-1 on the MCA portal.
• Provide NITI Aayog Unique ID, PAN, and registration certificate.
• Submit 12A & 80G certificates for eligibility.
• After approval, the NGO can receive CSR funds.
FCRA Registration for Foreign Donations
FCRA Full Form & FCRA Act 2010
• FCRA Full Form: Foreign Contribution Regulation Act.
• FCRA Act 2010: Governs foreign donations to Indian NGOs.
FCRA Registration Process
• Apply for the FCRA Online Services Portal.
• Submit Form FC-3A (for new registration).
• Provide NITI Aayog Registration and financial details.
• Approval takes 3-6 months.
FCRA Renewal Status & Compliance
• FCRA registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed on time.
• Use FCRA Online Services to track FCRA renewal status.
Conclusion
NITI Aayog Registration is a crucial step for NGOs, Trusts, and Section 8 Companies to gain government recognition, tax exemptions, and funding opportunities. By registering on the NGO DARPAN portal, organizations become eligible for government grants, CSR funding, and FCRA registration for foreign donations.
Additionally, 12A & 80G registration ensures tax benefits for the organization and its donors, while CSR-1 registration allows eligibility for corporate funding. FCRA registration is necessary for nonprofits planning to receive international contributions.
By completing NITI Aayog Registration and following proper compliance procedures, nonprofits can enhance their credibility, transparency, and financial sustainability. This ensures they can focus on their charitable objectives while maximizing funding opportunities.
Regularly updating registration details and tracking renewal status will help maintain legal compliance and uninterrupted access to government and corporate funding sources.
FAQs
1. Is NITI Aayog Registration mandatory for NGOs?
Ans. Yes, NITI Aayog Registration is mandatory for NGOs to apply for government grants, CSR funding, and FCRA registration. It enhances credibility and ensures compliance with government regulations.
2. How long does NITI Aayog Registration take?
Ans. The registration process typically takes 7-15 days after submitting the application and required documents on the NGO DARPAN portal.
3. Can a Section 8 Company apply for NITI Aayog Registration?
Ans. Yes, a Section 8 Company is eligible for NITI Aayog Registration, which allows it to access government schemes, CSR funds, and tax benefits.
4. Is there a fee for 12A and 80G Registration?
Ans. No, the government does not charge any fee, but NGOs may incur professional consultancy charges if they seek expert assistance for the process.
5. How can I check my FCRA renewal status?
Ans. You can check your FCRA renewal status on the FCRA Online Services portal by entering your FCRA registration number and verifying your renewal details.
