The Government of India has established NITI Aayog to foster a robust partnership between Non-Government Organisations and the Indian Government. NITI Aayog has launched an online platform called NGO Darpan, allowing centralised registration for NGOs or VOs. This portal serves as a comprehensive source of information about NGOs or VOs, categorised by state or sector. All NGOs/VOs are required to register under NITI Aayog to be eligible for grants under various government schemes.
The acronym NITI Aayog stands for the National Institution for Transforming India Aayog, formed in 2015 to succeed the Planning Commission of India. Additionally, government departments or ministries executing schemes through NGOs are encouraged to integrate their portals with NGO-Darpan, simplifying information flow regarding funding and project implementation to NGOs. In this blog, we shall see the process of NITI Aayog NGO registration in India.
Benefits of NITI Aayog NGO Registration in India
The advantages of NITI Aayog NGO registration in India are:
1. Facilitates FCRA Registration
NITI Aayog NGO Registration provides a unique ID, although currently optional, which is required for FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) Registration.
2. Enhances Credibility
Registration with NITI Aayog boosts the credibility of Trusts, Societies, and NGOs, making them more attractive to receive donations from the general public.
3. Access to Government Schemes
Obtaining NITI Aayog NGO Registration is mandatory to access various schemes and initiatives offered by the Government of India, enhancing an organisation’s ability to serve society.
4. Maintenance of NGO Databases
The NGO Darpan Portal is instrumental in maintaining databases of both active and blacklisted Non-Government Organisations, ensuring transparency and accountability.
5. Streamlined Grant Applications
Through the NGO Darpan portal, organisations can directly apply for grants offered by the Indian Government, simplifying the process of accessing funds for their initiatives.
Vital Documents Required for NITI Aayog NGO Registration in India
To successfully complete the NITI Aayog Registration process in India, the following crucial documents are necessary:
1. Duly Certified Trust Deed
A certified copy of the Trust Deed is required.
2. Memorandum of Association
Submission of a copy of the MOA of the organisation is essential.
3. Articles of Association
A copy of the AOA of the organisation must also be submitted.
4. Certificate of Registration of Society
Provide a copy of the Certificate of Registration of the Society.
5. Memorandum and Byelaws
Include a certified copy of the organisation’s Memorandum and Byelaws.
6. PAN Card of NGO
The PAN (Permanent Account Number) Card of the NGO should be provided.
7. FCRA Details
Furnish details related to the FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act).
8. Valid Email ID and Mobile Number
Ensure the availability of a valid email ID and mobile number for OTP (One Time Password) verification.
9. Source of Funds Information
Provide details of all sources of funds received from government bodies for the last five years.
10. Aadhar Card and PAN Card of Trustees/Members
Submit Aadhar Cards and PAN Cards of all Trustees or members of the organisation.
11. Details of Chairman and Chief Functionary
Include information about the Chairman of the Organisation and the Chief Functionary.
By assembling and submitting these essential documents, organisations can initiate the NITI Aayog NGO Registration process in compliance with Indian regulations.
Steps for NITI Aayog NGO Registration in India
To complete the NITI Aayog Registration process, follow the steps outlined below:
1. Visit the NGO Darpan Website
Access the NGO Darpan online platform.
2. Sign Up
On the homepage, click on the “Login” or “Register” link and select “Sign Up.”
3. Provide Contact Information
Enter the full name of the NGO or Voluntary Organisation, along with the contact person’s mobile number and email address. Next, enter the security code and submit the request. Also, provide the PAN details of the NGO or VO.
4. OTP Verification
After submitting the details, you will receive an OTP on the provided email address and mobile number. Then, verify the OTP to proceed.
5. Generate a Password
Create a password for future login purposes.
6. Sign In
Return to the homepage and use the “Sign In” option. Enter your login ID and the password you generated.
7. Pre-filled Information
Upon logging in, you will find the PAN Number and Name of the Non-Government Organisation or Voluntary Organisation pre-filled.
8. Provide Organisation Details
Furnish the following information:
· Detailed address of the NGO.
· Registration authority of the NGO or VO.
· Registration Number and upload a copy of the Registration Certificate (RC) for verification.
· Name of the Act under which the organisation is registered and the registration date.
· Details of any other registrations, such as GST Registration or FCRA Registration.
9. Member Details
Provide details of a minimum of three members, including Founder Members, Executive Committee members, or Office Bearers as of the application date.
10. Sources of Funds
Detail all sources of funds received from Government Bodies in the last five years.
11. Contact Person
Provide information about the main person to be contacted for any inquiries.
12. Core Area of Working
Specify the NGO or VO’s core area of operation, including state details. This information is crucial for grant allocation from government departments based on their areas of operation.
13. Profile Completion
Once all required details are provided, your profile will be considered 100% complete.
14. Submit Application
Submit the application for NITI Aayog NGO Registration.
15. Application Processing
Your application, along with the necessary documents, will be sent for processing to the respective officer.
16. Approval Process
The officer will either approve your application or request additional documents if needed.
17. Unique ID Allocation
Upon approval, you will be allocated a Unique ID, which will be used for all future communications with the Government.
Important Points to Consider in NITI Aayog NGO Registration
Some points to consider when going for NITI Aayog Registration are:
· Registration as NITI Aayog NGO cannot be applied for as an individual; a valid PAN Card for the Trust/Society/NGO is required.
· Registered Non-Government Organisations must maintain accounts and provide financial information to the ministry after the fiscal year-end.
· Processing time for approval typically takes around 3 to 5 days if all requirements are met.
Final Thoughts
NITI Aayog NGO Registration in India is a crucial step for nonprofit organisations seeking to make a positive impact on society. This comprehensive process ensures transparency, accountability, and eligibility for various government schemes and grants. By following the outlined steps, organisations can establish their legitimacy and enhance their credibility, making them more attractive to donors and collaborators. The documentation requirements, including PAN details, member information, and funding sources, help maintain accurate records and promote responsible financial management. Obtaining a Unique ID through this registration process facilitates streamlined communication with government entities.
Ultimately, NITI Aayog registration serves as a bridge between these organisations and government initiatives, enabling them to effectively pursue their mission of promoting social welfare and development.
