Darpan Registration in India
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 Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and the government, the NGO-DARPAN portal was established in 2015. It is managed by NITI Aayog in partnership with the National Informatics Centre (NIC) to enable NGOs and Voluntary Organizations (VOs) to register and obtain a unique identification number.
This registration is important for NGOs that aim to access grants from the government of India, participate in public welfare projects, and establish credibility with various stakeholders. Darpan registration is not mandatory for all NGOs; it provides numerous benefits to the organizations. The process to register as Darpan is quick, easy, and entirely digital. It involves submitting key documents such as the organization's registration certificate, PAN card, details of key functionaries, and constitutional documents.
What is NGO-DARPAN?
NGO-DARPAN, also known as the NGO-PS or NGO Partnership System, is an initiative of NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC) taken in 2015 to serve as a digital platform where NGOs and voluntary organisations can register themselves to:
- Receive government grants,
- Maintain transparency, and
- Established a channel of communication with various Ministries and Departments of the Government of India.
DARPAN Registration is the process through which NGOs and voluntary organizations in India register on the NGO DARPAN portal. It gives organizations a Unique DARPAN ID, which is essential for applying for government grants.
Main Objectives of DARPAN Registration
- To help government ministries identify and work with eligible and trustworthy NGOs for various schemes.
- To make NGO operations and credentials publicly visible and reduce the chances of fraud.
- To ensure that NGOs maintain updated records.
- To help donors and citizens identify genuine NGOs by verifying their details.
- To assist the government with real-time data on the sector-wise involvement of NGOs and its impact.
- To promote a tech-enabled system for NGO registration, funding, and record maintenance.
Is Darpan Registration Mandatory?
No, Darpan Registration is not mandatory for every NGO; it is compulsory for those who are seeking:
- Government funding or grants from Central Ministries or Departments;
- Recognition for participating in public projects or welfare schemes;
- Visibility as a legitimate and functioning voluntary organisation.
Benefits of Darpan Registration in India
Darpan Registration provides the following benefits:
- DARPAN-registered NGOs can apply for grants and projects from most Central Ministries and Departments.
- DARPAN ID shows you are a compliant and transparent organization, which earns trust from donors, corporates, and even the media.
- The key information of the NGO is updated in a single government-backed portal, which reduces paperwork for future applications.
- International funders check DARPAN listings for legitimacy, especially in CSR and FCRA-related donations.
- Ministries can reach out to registered NGOs for inputs, proposals, or emergency projects.
- Darpan Registration encourages the organization to stay organized and financially accountable.
Who Can Register on NGO-DARPAN?
The following entities are eligible to register on the DARPAN portal:
- Societies registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 or respective state Acts.
- Trusts registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, or applicable state laws.
- Section 8 Companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013 (earlier Section 25 Companies under the Companies Act, 1956).
- Charitable Associations
- NGOs and Voluntary Organizations
The organisation must be:
- Legally registered in India
- Actively working in social welfare or development-related areas;
- It operates as a non-profit and non-political body in India.
Documents Required for Darpan Registration
Before beginning the application process, you need to keep the following documents handy:
- Registration Certificate of NGO: PDF copy of the Society, Trust, or Section 8 Company registration certificate.
- PAN of the Organization: PAN card issued in the name of the organization, not the individual trustee or member.
- Details of Key organization functions: PAN, contact info, and designations of main office bearers (e.g., President, Secretary).
- MOA, Trust Deed, or by-laws, depending on the NGO type.
- Annual Reports/Financials: It is optional, but it shows credibility and past work.
- Valid Email ID and Mobile Number of the key signatory or responsible officer for OTP verification
Step-by-Step Process of NGO Darpan Registration Online
The Darpan registration process is completely online. Follow the below-mentioned steps:
Step 1: Visit the NGO-DARPAN Portal
- Go to https://ngodarpan.gov.in
- Click on “Sign Up” to register as a new user and create an account on this portal.
Step 2: Provide Organizational Details:
- PAN Number
- Registration Number and Date when your NGO/VO was registered.
- Type of Registration, like trust, society, section 8 company.
- Upload the registration certificate and PAN card in PDF format.
Step 3: Provide Office Bearers' Details
- Enter the names, Aadhaar numbers, mobile numbers, and email addresses of the Chairman, President, Secretary, or Treasurer. It is pertinent to note that a minimum of 3 functionaries is mandatory.
- An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to both the provided email and mobile number. Enter the OTPs to verify and authenticate your contact information.
Step 4: Create Login Credentials
You can do this by setting up a username and password for your NGO's account on the portal. Then, return to the homepage and use your newly created credentials to Sign In.
Step 5: Complete Profile Setup:
- Address Details of your organization's headquarters.
- List details of at least three members from the governing body, including their names, designations, and contact information.
- Specify the sectors or areas in which your NGO/VO is active, such as Education, Health, and Environment.
- Attach necessary documents, such as the Registration Certificate and PAN Card, in the prescribed formats.
And submit the Application for processing.
Step 6 Obtain ID:
Upon successful verification by NITI Aayog, your NGO will be assigned a Unique ID. This ID is essential for availing benefits and applying for grants under various government schemes.
Step 7: Submit and Await Approval
- Once the form is submitted, it goes to NITI Aayog for verification.
- Upon approval, you will be issued a Unique Darpan ID (UD ID).
Darpan Registration and CSR Funding
Under the Companies Act, 2013, corporations are required to spend a certain percentage of their profits on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Companies often partner with credible NGOs to ensure that their contributions are channeled effectively. In this context, Darpan Registration plays a huge role as it ensures that the NGOs are
- Compliant with FCRA (for foreign funds),
- Comply with the government norms
- NGOs file the Form CSR-1 to receive CSR funding
- Have clear goals and documented impact.
Common Issues and Mistakes During Darpan Registration
Many NGOs face delays due to minor mistakes. Avoid these:
- Mismatch Between PAN and Organization Name
- Using Incorrect Contact Information
- Uploading Unclear or Incorrect Documents
- Incomplete Governing Body Details
- Multiple Registrations with the Same PAN
- Ignoring Submission Status
- Unauthorized Signatories
- Neglecting Profile Updates Post-Registration
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Kanakkupillai is a trusted partner for businesses in India, offering a range of services to support your entrepreneurial journey. We provide:
- Wide Range of Services: From company registration to NGO registration, Kanakkupillai provides comprehensive solutions under one roof, simplifying your business processes.
- Personalized Support: We understand that each NGO is unique. Kanakkupillai offers tailored advice and assistance, ensuring your specific needs are met with care and expertise.
- Experienced Team: Our team of professionals ensures that your documents are prepared correctly and in a timely manner, giving you peace of mind.
- Transparent Pricing: Kanakkupillai offers services with clear and transparent pricing and no hidden fees!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an NGO update its operational sectors after completing registration?
Yes, NGOs can update their operational sectors by logging into their NGO DARPAN account and modifying the relevant sections. It's advisable to keep this information current to accurately reflect the organization's activities.Is it possible to register multiple NGOs under a single mobile number or email ID?
No, each NGO must have a unique mobile number and email ID for registration. Using the same contact details for multiple NGOs can lead to registration issues.What should be done if the NGO's registration certificate is in a regional language?
If the registration certificate is in a regional language, it's recommended to provide an officially translated copy in English or Hindi, duly notarized, along with the original certificate during the registration process.How does an NGO handle a change in its governing body members post-registration?
Any changes in the governing body should be promptly updated on the NGO DARPAN portal. This ensures that the records remain accurate and reflect the current leadership.Can foreign entities register on the NGO DARPAN portal?
No, only NGOs legally registered in India are eligible to register on the NGO DARPAN portal.What is the procedure if an NGO forgets its login credentials and loses access to the registered email and mobile number?
In such cases, the NGO should contact the NGO DARPAN helpdesk with valid proof of identity and organization details to recover or reset the login credentials.Are there any specific browser requirements for accessing the NGO DARPAN portal?
While the portal is designed to be compatible with most browsers, it's recommended to use updated versions of browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox for optimal performance.Can an NGO deregister from the NGO DARPAN portal?
Currently, the portal does not provide an option for deregistration. However, NGOs can contact the help desk for guidance on this matter.How can an NGO verify the authenticity of communication claiming to be from NGO DARPAN?
Official communications from NGO DARPAN will come from official email addresses or be available within the NGO's account on the portal. NGOs should be cautious of unsolicited communications and verify authenticity through the official portal.What makes Us Different

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