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NGO/Society/Trust Registration

We help you to register your NGO in India, including the steps for setting up a Trust, Society, and Section 8 Company, and their respective benefits.

A trust is suitable for charitable organisations which are started by individuals persons or families. A trust runs through a corpus fund, which is established by an initial donation from the founding individual or family and then sustained through external donations

Societies can be formed for charitable as well as recreational purposes. It is usually formed by a collective of like minded people with a common goal or vision that is not commercial in nature.

This structure is usually suitable for NGOs that do not only collect charitable donations but also engage in commercial activity to raise funds for their charitable and social pursuits.

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Introduction to NGO Registration

NGO registration in India refers to the process of registering a non-government organization (NGO) under the Indian law. In India, there are various legal provisions for the registration of NGOs, including societies, trusts, non-profit companies, and section 8 companies.

Societies Registration Act, 1860: This act governs the registration of societies in India. To register a society, a minimum of 7 members are required who share a common interest in promoting a particular cause. The society must have a written constitution and by-laws that outline its objectives, management structure, and activities.

Public Trusts Act: This act governs the registration of trusts in India. A minimum of 2 trustees are required to register a trust, and they must have a written trust deed that outlines the objectives of the trust and the manner in which it will be managed.

Companies Act, 2013: This act governs the registration of non-profit companies in India. A minimum of 7 members are required to register a non-profit company, and the company must have a written memorandum of association and articles of association that outline its objectives and management structure.

Section 8 Company: This is a type of company registered under the Companies Act, 2013 for the promotion of commerce, art, science, religion, charity, or any other useful object. The company must have a minimum of 2 members and its profits must not be distributed as dividends to its members.

After the completion of the registration process, an NGO can start its operations and carry out activities related to its objectives. It is important to note that registered NGOs are eligible for certain tax benefits and can receive foreign funding, subject to certain conditions and regulations.

In conclusion, the process of registering an NGO in India depends on the type of organization and the law under which it is being registered. It is advisable to seek professional assistance to ensure that the registration process is carried out smoothly and in compliance with all legal requirements.

NGO registration procedure for a Trust

The procedure for Trust registration involves the below steps:

  1. Select an appropriate name
  2. Drafting of Trust deed
  3. Selecting settlers and trustees of the Trust
  4. Preparing Memorandum of Association
  5. Paying the requisite fees
  6. Collection of a copy of Trust deed
  7. Submission of the Trust deed with the Registrar
  8. Obtain the registration certificate

Benefits of registering as a Trust

  • Trusts can get land from the government
  • There is no federal law that governs public charitable trusts in India. However, it is important to note that some Indian states, such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan do have a Public Trusts Act.
  • An NGO registered under the Trusts Act can bring into practice the word “Govt. Regd.” or ‘Regd.’
  • Avail tax benefits.
  • 80G certificate advantage under the Income Tax Act.
  • Trusts can get white capital – money or other assets owned by a person or organization or used for starting a company or investing for building construction.
  • Benefits under Goods & Service Tax (GST)



Types of Registration/Licensing

NGO Registration Process

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