Society Registration for NGO
Register a society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 for your NGO — ideal for member-driven organizations in education, culture, science, and social welfare.
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Why Register as a Society?
A Registered Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 is the preferred NGO structure for organizations that want democratic governance with multiple active members — like alumni associations, cultural organizations, sports clubs, or community welfare bodies. Unlike a Trust (trustee-led) or Section 8 Company (MCA-regulated), a Society is governed by an elected Executive Committee representing the general body of members. It is well-suited for organizations planning to apply for government grants, particularly for educational and social welfare schemes.
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Advantages of Society Structure for NGO
Democratic Governance
Members elect the Executive Committee — ensures participatory and transparent management.
Multiple Founders
7+ founding members bring diverse networks, credibility, and shared governance.
Government Grant Eligible
Societies are preferred by NITI Aayog, NABARD, and state governments for grants.
Tax Exemption Eligible
Eligible for 12A income tax exemption and 80G donor deduction after registration.
Eligibility & Requirements
How to Register a Society as NGO
Society registration is done with the State Registrar of Societies (or Registrar of Firms and Societies in some states).
1Step 1: Hold Founding Meeting
Organize a general body meeting of 7+ members. Pass a resolution to form the society and adopt MoA and Rules.
2Step 2: Draft MoA and Bye-laws
Prepare Memorandum of Association (name, objectives, area of operation) and Rules & Regulations (meetings, elections, amendments).
3Step 3: Elect Executive Committee
Elect President, Secretary, and Treasurer from founding members. Pass formal resolution.
4Step 4: File Application to Registrar
Submit Form with MoA, Bye-laws, member list, executive committee list, and affidavit from Secretary.
5Step 5: Receive Registration Certificate
Registrar issues the Registration Certificate and Society number. NGO is now legally constituted.
Society registration takes 20–30 days. Once registered, immediately apply for PAN, open bank account, then apply for 12A and 80G.
Documents Required
Member Documents
- PAN Card of all 7+ members
- Aadhaar Card
- Photograph of each member
- Occupation and address of each member
Society Documents
- Memorandum of Association
- Rules & Regulations
- Minutes of founding meeting
- Affidavit from Secretary
Registered Office
- Rental agreement or ownership deed
- NOC from landlord
- Latest utility bill
Post-Registration Compliance
Annual General Meeting
Mandatory AGM once a year. Present accounts, elect/re-elect executive committee.
Annual List to Registrar
File annual list of Executive Committee members with the Registrar of Societies as required by state law.
12A Income Tax Return
File ITR annually after obtaining 12A registration for income tax exemption.
DARPAN Registration
Register on NITI Aayog's DARPAN portal to access government grants and FCRA registration.
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