Darpan Registration in India: Strengthening NGO-Government Synergy
India is estimated to have around 3.1 million Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that contribute significantly to societal development. To enhance transparency and collaboration between NGOs and the government, the NGO-DARPAN portal was established in 2015. Managed by NITI Aayog in partnership with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), this portal allows NGOs and Voluntary Organizations (VOs) to register and obtain a unique identification number.
This registration is crucial for NGOs aiming to access government grants, participate in welfare projects, and establish credibility. While not mandatory for all, Darpan registration offers numerous benefits. The registration process is entirely digital and involves submitting key documents such as the registration certificate, PAN card, details of key functionaries, and constitutional documents.
What is NGO-DARPAN?
NGO-DARPAN (also called NGO Partnership System or NGO-PS) is a digital platform launched by NITI Aayog in collaboration with NIC. It allows NGOs and VOs to register themselves for:
- Eligibility to receive government grants
- Establishing transparency and credibility
- Creating a communication channel with government departments
Upon registration, NGOs receive a Unique DARPAN ID, essential for applying for central government grants.
Main Objectives of DARPAN Registration
- Identify credible NGOs for government collaboration
- Promote transparency and reduce fraud
- Maintain up-to-date NGO records on a public platform
- Provide verified data to donors and citizens
- Assist government departments with sector-specific NGO data
- Enable tech-driven record-keeping and application processes
Is Darpan Registration Mandatory?
Darpan Registration is not mandatory for every NGO. However, it is compulsory for those looking to:
- Apply for government grants or schemes
- Gain recognition for participating in public welfare projects
- Improve legitimacy and visibility with stakeholders
Benefits of Darpan Registration in India
- Access to government projects and funding
- Increased credibility and visibility with donors and partners
- Simplified documentation for future applications
- Eligibility for international CSR and FCRA grants
- Inclusion in emergency and priority government initiatives
- Encourages financial accountability and transparency
Who Can Register on NGO-DARPAN?
- Registered Societies under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 or state equivalents
- Trusts under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 or state-specific laws
- Section 8 Companies under the Companies Act, 2013
- Charitable associations and nonprofit voluntary organizations
Organizations must be legally registered in India, work in developmental or social sectors, and operate as non-profit, non-political entities.
Documents Required for Darpan Registration
To complete the DARPAN registration process efficiently, NGOs and Voluntary Organizations must gather and upload key documents that establish their legitimacy and organizational structure. Here’s a checklist of the essential documents required:
- Registration Certificate of the NGO: A scanned PDF copy of the registration certificate of the Society, Trust, or Section 8 Company, depending on how the organization is incorporated.
- PAN Card of the Organization: The organization's PAN card issued by the Income Tax Department, not the personal PAN of a trustee or member.
- Details of Key Functionaries: Information about the main office bearers (e.g., President, Secretary, Treasurer) including their PAN, contact numbers, email IDs, and official designations.
- Constitutional Documents: Submit the appropriate governing document—Memorandum of Association (MOA), Trust Deed, or Bye-laws—depending on the legal structure of the NGO.
- Annual Reports or Financial Statements (Optional): Uploading previous annual reports or audited financials is not mandatory but is encouraged to build credibility.
- Contact Details of Authorized Signatory: Provide a valid email address and mobile number of the authorized person to receive OTPs and correspondence during the registration process.
Ensuring these documents are accurate and up to date will streamline the DARPAN registration and enhance your NGO’s trustworthiness on a national platform.
Step-by-Step Process of NGO Darpan Registration Online
The DARPAN registration process is entirely digital and managed through the NGO-DARPAN portal by NITI Aayog. Follow these simple steps to register your NGO or Voluntary Organization (VO):
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Visit the NGO-DARPAN Portal
Navigate to https://ngodarpan.gov.in. Click on “Sign Up” to create a new user account for your organization.
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Provide Organizational Details
Enter the organization's PAN, registration number, and registration date. Specify the type of registration—Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company. Upload the scanned copies of the Registration Certificate and PAN card in PDF format.
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Provide Office Bearers' Details
Add the names, Aadhaar numbers, email IDs, and mobile numbers of at least three key functionaries such as the Chairman, President, Secretary, or Treasurer. Verify your contact details by entering the OTP sent to both email and mobile.
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Create Login Credentials
Set up a unique username and password for future access. Once created, return to the homepage and log in using these credentials.
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Complete Profile Setup
Fill in the organization’s address and list at least three governing body members with their names, roles, and contact details. Mention the sectors your NGO works in—like Health, Education, or Environment—and upload the required documents.
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Obtain DARPAN ID
After verification by NITI Aayog, your NGO will receive a Unique DARPAN ID. This ID is necessary to apply for government grants and schemes.
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Submit and Await Approval
Once submitted, the application is reviewed by NITI Aayog. Upon approval, your NGO will receive a Unique DARPAN ID.
DARPAN Registration and CSR Funding
Registration on DARPAN is critical for NGOs to be eligible for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding under the Companies Act, 2013. It confirms that the NGO:
- Is FCRA compliant for receiving foreign donations.
- Meets government compliance standards.
- Has filed Form CSR-1 to be eligible for CSR contributions.
- Demonstrates documented impact and clear goals.
Common Issues and Mistakes During DARPAN Registration
Avoid delays and rejections by being mindful of the following errors:
- Mismatch between PAN and organization name
- Incorrect or inactive contact details
- Unclear or incorrect document uploads
- Incomplete details of the governing body
- Multiple registrations using the same PAN
- Failure to monitor application status post-submission
- Submission by unauthorized signatories
- Failure to update profile regularly
Why Choose Kanakkupillai?
Kanakkupillai provides expert support for hassle-free NGO DARPAN registration:
- Wide Range of Services: From company formation to NGO registration, all under one roof.
- Personalized Support: Customized solutions tailored to each NGO’s unique structure and mission.
- Experienced Team: Professional assistance to ensure error-free and timely registration.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden charges—just honest service.
Partner with Kanakkupillai to register your NGO confidently and unlock opportunities for CSR and government support.
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