Registration of NGO in India

 Society registration in India is a legal process governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860 and managed individually by each state government. 

Eligibility & Requirements

• Minimum Members: At least 7 members are required for a state-level society; a national-level society requires a minimum of 8 members from different states.
• Eligible Persons: Indian citizens, companies, foreigners (with approval), and other registered bodies can join as founding members. 
• Purpose: Must be formed for charitable activities, promotion of science, literature, fine arts, education, or public welfare.
• Name Approval: The name must be unique, not match any existing registered society, and avoid prohibited national or government-related words. 

Documents Required

• Memorandum of Association (MOA) in duplicate
• Rules and Regulations / Bye-laws of the society
• PAN card and ID/address proof (Aadhaar, passport, utility bills) of all members
• Proof of registered office address and a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord (if rented)
• Covering letter signed by all founding members
• Declaration or affidavit from the President or Secretary 

Registration Process

1. Choose a Name: Select a unique name that complies with state guidelines. 
2. Draft Documents: Prepare the MOA and Rules & Regulations, signed by founding members and witnessed by a Notary Public or Gazetted Officer.
3. Submit Application: File the documents along with the prescribed registration fee to the local Registrar of Societies in your respective state.
4. Verification & Certificate: The registrar inspects the documents and issues a certificate of registration.