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Learn how to start an NGO in India in 2025 with this complete guide on registration types, documents, costs, 80G/12A, FCRA, funding sources, compliance, and how Sai NGO & Business Consultancy can help.
Starting an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) in India can be a rewarding way to drive social change, support development goals, and empower marginalized communities. In 2025, with digital governance and stricter regulations, it’s important to understand the proper legal and procedural framework. This step-by-step guide will help you register your NGO, apply for benefits like 80G/12A, FCRA, and stay compliant with government rules.
1.What Is an NGO? Understanding the Basics
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a voluntary group organized to provide social services, advocacy, or humanitarian aid. In India, NGOs work across sectors such as education, health, women empowerment, and rural development.
NGO Full Form: Non-Governmental Organization
2.Types of NGO Registrations in India: Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company?
Keywords: types of NGO, NGO registration types, trust vs society vs section 8
You can register an NGO in India in three main ways:
- Trust – Under the Indian Trusts Act, mainly for charitable and religious purposes.
- Society – Under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, ideal for cultural, educational, or welfare activities.
- Section 8 Company – Under the Companies Act, 2013, for more professional and structured operations.
| Type | Governing Law | Suitable For | Registration Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trust | Indian Trusts Act | Charitable/Religious | Sub-Registrar (State) |
| Society | Societies Act, 1860 | Cultural/Educational | State Registrar of Societies |
| Section 8 Company | Companies Act, 2013 | Professional/CSR Focused | MCA (Central Government) |
Benefits of Registering an NGO in India
advantages of NGO registration, NGO benefits, section 8 company benefits
- Legal identity & credibility
- Eligibility for government grants & CSR funding
- Tax exemptions under 80G and 12A
- FCRA eligibility for foreign funds
- Improved trust with donors, volunteers, and the public
Documents Required for NGO Registration
NGO registration documents, documents for section 8 company, society registration documents
- ID & Address Proof of Members (Aadhaar, PAN)
- Passport-sized Photos
- Registered Office Proof (Rent Agreement or NOC)
- MOA & AOA / Trust Deed / Society Bylaws
- Digital Signature Certificate (for Section 8)
- Director Identification Number (DIN)
Step-by-Step Process to Register an NGO in 2025
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Step 1: Choose the Type of NGO
Select between Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on your goals and activities.
Step 2: Decide a Name
Ensure the name is unique and not against national symbols or emblems.
Step 3: Prepare the MOA/AOA or Trust Deed
This defines your organization’s vision, objectives, rules, and functioning.
Step 4: Arrange Required Documents (see next section)
Step 5: Apply for Registration
- Trust: Register at the local Sub-Registrar Office
- Society: Apply to State Registrar of Societies
- Section 8: Register through www.mca.gov.in
Step 6: PAN, Bank Account, and GST (if applicable)
Step 7: Apply for 12A, 80G (Tax Exemptions)
Step 8: Apply for FCRA (for foreign funding) if needed
How Much Does It Cost to Register an NGO in India?
NGO registration fees, NGO setup cost, cost to start an NGO
| NGO Type | Approx. Cost (INR) |
| Trust | 4,000 – 8,000 |
| Society | 6,000 – 12,000 |
| Section 8 Company | 10,000 – 25,000 (including DSC/DIN) |
Note: Fees may vary by state or legal professional.
📞 किसी भी सहायता या NGO रजिस्ट्रेशन के लिए संपर्क करें:
📧 Email: saingoconsultancy@gmail.com | 📱 Phone: +91-8603456708 | 🌐 Website: www.ngotrust.in
How to Get 80G and 12A Registration for NGOs
80G registration, 12A certificate, tax exemption for NGO
These certificates provide tax exemption to the NGO and its donors.
- Apply online via https://www.incometax.gov.in
- Submit NGO registration certificate, PAN, activity report, and audited financials.
- Approval takes 2–3 months post-scrutiny.
How to Apply for FCRA Registration in 2025
FCRA registration, foreign funding for NGO, FCRA 2025
FCRA is mandatory for receiving foreign contributions.
- Apply at https://fcraonline.nic.in
- Organization must be 3+ years old and active in social work
- Submit audited accounts, annual reports, registration docs
📞 For any queries or if you want to apply for NGO registration, contact us:
📧 Email: saingoconsultancy@gmail.com | 📱 Phone: +91-8603456708 | 🌐 Website: www.ngotrust.in
Top NGO Funding Sources in India: CSR, Government Grants & More
NGO funding, CSR funds for NGO, government grants for NGO
- CSR Funds – Under Section 135 of Companies Act
- Government Schemes – Ministries of Education, Health, Women & Child Welfare
- International Funding – via FCRA approval
- Crowdfunding Platforms – Use with transparency
- Donations – Individual and corporate
NGO Compliance Checklist: Rules, Reporting & Penalties
NGO compliance, section 8 compliance, NGO annual returns
- Annual filing with MCA (for Section 8)
- Income Tax Return filing
- Renewal of 80G/12A (if time-bound)
- FCRA returns via Form FC-4
- Maintain proper books, meeting records, and donor reports
Penalties for non-compliance include cancellation of registration, fines, and legal action.
Mistakes to Avoid While Starting or Running an NGO
NGO startup mistakes, NGO compliance issues, NGO audit errors
- Choosing the wrong type of registration
- Not maintaining proper financial records
- Missing compliance deadlines
- Accepting foreign funds without FCRA
- Not defining mission/vision clearly
How Sai NGO & Business Consultancy Can Help You Set Up and Grow Your NGO
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We offer end-to-end services:
- Trust / Society / Section 8 Company registration
- 80G / 12A / FCRA registration
- PAN, DSC, DIN support
- NGO annual compliance and audit filing
- Project documentation & government liaison
📍 Offices: Ranchi | Patna | Prayagraj | Pune
📧 Email: saingoconsultancy@gmail.com
📞 Phone: +91-8603456708
🌐 Website: https://ngotrust.in
Q1.What is the minimum number of members required to register an NGO in India?
To register an NGO as a Trust, you need at least 2 trustees; for a Society, 7 members from different states; and for a Section 8 Company, at least 2 directors.
Q2.Which is the best type of NGO registration in India?
The most preferred type is a Section 8 Company, as it offers better legal structure, transparency, and eligibility for foreign and CSR funding.
Q3. Can a single person start an NGO in India?
No, you need at least 2 people to form a Section 8 Company or Trust, and 7 members for a Society. NGOs are formed for collective welfare, hence individual registration isn’t allowed.
Q4.How much does it cost to register an NGO in India?
NGO registration costs vary depending on the type. On average:
Trust: ₹5,000–₹10,000
Society: ₹8,000–₹15,000
Section 8 Company: ₹15,000–₹30,000 (including professional fees)
