Complete Guide to NITI Aayog Registration for NGOs in India

NITI Aayog Registration

In India, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Trusts, Societies, and Section 8 Companies play a significant role in driving social change and supporting development initiatives. To collaborate effectively with the government and gain access to funding opportunities, NITI Aayog registration is a critical step.

Managed by the Government of India through the NGO Darpan Portal, this registration gives NGOs a digital identity that enhances credibility, transparency, and trust. It is also a mandatory prerequisite for applying for FCRA Registration and CSR-1 Registration, both of which are essential for receiving foreign and corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding.

What is NITI Aayog Registration?

NITI Aayog registration is the process of enlisting your NGO or voluntary organization on the official NGO Darpan Portal. This portal, developed by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), acts as a bridge between the government and the non-profit sector.

Upon successful registration, your organization receives a Unique Identification Number (NGO Darpan ID). This ID is used in all dealings with government departments and in applications for grants, schemes, and regulatory compliances.

Who Can Apply for NITI Aayog Registration?

The following organizations are eligible:

Trusts registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882
Societies under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
Section 8 Companies under the Companies Act, 2013
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) or Voluntary Organizations (VOs) engaged in public service and welfare activities

Note: Individuals are not allowed to register. Only legal entities with a valid registration certificate are eligible.

Why NITI Aayog Registration is Important

Registering your NGO with NITI Aayog opens multiple avenues for growth and funding:

1. Eligibility for Government Grants

Most ministries and government departments require NGOs to have an NGO Darpan ID before they can apply for grants or scheme-based funding.

2. Mandatory for FCRA Registration

Before applying for FCRA Registration (to receive foreign funds), your organization must be listed on the NGO Darpan Portal.

3. Required for CSR-1 Registration

To receive CSR funds from companies under the Companies Act, 2013, your NGO must first complete CSR-1 Registration, which also requires a valid NGO Darpan ID.

4. Enhanced Public Credibility

Your organization will appear in a public directory, boosting its visibility among donors, partners, and beneficiaries.

5. Simplified Communication with Government

Once registered, your NGO can easily interact with ministries, respond to funding calls, and provide compliance updates through a centralized platform.

Documents Required for NITI Aayog Registration

To register on the NGO Darpan Portal, prepare the following:

Registration Certificate (Trust Deed, Society Registration, or Section 8 Incorporation)
PAN Card of the Organization
Aadhaar and PAN Cards of at least 3 Executive Members
Details of Board Members (names, designations, contact info)
Annual Reports and Financial Statements (optional but recommended)
FCRA Certificate (if applicable)
Details of Government Funding (received in the past 5 years, if any)

Process for NITI Aayog Registration

Step 1: Visit the NGO Darpan Portal

Go to the official site: https://ngodarpan.gov.in

Step 2: Sign Up

Click on “Login/Register” and choose “Sign Up”. Provide an active mobile number and email for OTP verification.

Step 3: Create Login Credentials

After verification, create a password and set up your NGO’s login ID for future access.

Step 4: Log In to the Dashboard

Use your newly created credentials to access the NGO dashboard.

Step 5: Enter Organization Details

Fill out the necessary fields including:

Legal Name
Type of Entity
PAN Number
Address
Date and Place of Registration
FCRA Information (if any)

Step 6: Upload Required Documents

Ensure all scanned copies are clear and meet the size and format requirements (PDF or JPEG under 2MB).

Step 7: Review and Submit

Double-check your entries, then click Submit. You will receive a Unique ID upon successful registration.

How NITI Aayog Registration Supports FCRA and CSR-1 Compliance

FCRA Registration

NGOs must be NITI Aayog registered to be eligible for FCRA Registration, which allows them to legally accept foreign contributions.
FCRA ensures transparency in foreign fund utilization.
Registration with NITI Aayog is a compliance check by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

CSR-1 Registration

Under the Companies Act, 2013, companies must spend a portion of their profits on CSR activities.
NGOs must file Form CSR-1 to receive such funds, and a NGO Darpan ID is mandatory for this process.
Without this registration, NGOs cannot be considered CSR-eligible by corporate donors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting unclear or incorrect documents
Providing outdated or mismatched board member information
Missing out on required fields (e.g., FCRA if applicable)
Not updating the profile regularly post-registration

Post-Registration: What’s Next?

After receiving your NGO Darpan Unique ID:

Keep the profile updated with any change in trustees, address, or financials.
Apply for FCRA registration if you wish to receive foreign funding.
Submit CSR-1 Form with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to receive CSR donations.
Explore various government grant schemes and upload project reports.

Conclusion

NITI Aayog registration is a crucial milestone for every NGO operating in India. It not only offers legal validation and visibility but also paves the way for greater impact through government collaborations, FCRA Registration, and CSR-1 Registration. By preparing the right documents and the process, NGOs can unlock doors to new funding sources, policy engagement, and organizational growth. Whether you're a newly formed nonprofit or a well-established trust, registering with NITI Aayog is your passport to making a real difference locally and nationally.