Let me guide you through the entire registration process in India, including Darpan Portal Registration, legal documentation, and Trademark Registration for brand protection.

Know the Types of NGO Registration

Before moving ahead, you should decide the structure of your NGO. In India, you can register it in three forms:

• Trust under the Indian Trusts Act
  
  
• Society under the Societies Registration Act
  
  
• Section 8 Company under the Companies Act, 2013
  
  

Each type has its own purpose, documentation, and governing rules. Choose what suits your mission and long-term vision.

Step 1: Select a Unique NGO Name

The very first step is to choose a name for your NGO. Make sure the name is unique and not similar to any existing legal entity. You can also go for Trademark Registration to protect the identity of your NGO. This gives you exclusive legal rights to use the name or logo.

I always advise clients to do this at the early stage. It avoids future legal conflicts and builds trust.

Step 2: Draft Your NGO Documents

Once the name is final, the next step is to prepare legal documents. These include:

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  
  
• Rules and regulations
  
  
• Trust Deed or Bye-laws
  
  

These papers must clearly define your NGO’s objectives, area of work, and structure. At NGO Experts, we make sure these documents meet legal standards and state-specific rules.

Step 3: Prepare ID Proof and Address Documents

All founding members must provide their KYC documents:

• PAN card
  
  
• Aadhaar card
  
  
• Passport-sized photographs
  
  

You will also need address proof for the NGO office. A rent agreement or utility bill works well if the place is rented. Ownership proof is required for a self-owned space.

Step 4: Notarize and Submit Documents

You must notarize all prepared documents before submission. The notarization process gives them legal recognition. Once that’s done, submit the documents to the relevant Registrar, based on the type of registration you selected.

For Societies, apply to the Registrar of Societies. For Trusts, go to the local Sub-Registrar. If you go with a Section 8 Company, submit your forms online on the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal.

Step 5: Apply for Darpan Portal Registration

Darpan Portal Registration is compulsory if you want to receive government grants or collaborate with any government body. It is handled by NITI Aayog.

To apply, you need:

• PAN card of the NGO
  
  
• Email and mobile of the chief functionary
  
  
• Details of key members
  
  
• Bank account information
  
  

Once approved, you will receive a unique Darpan ID. This ID is necessary for further funding applications and government-related processes.

We at NGO Experts always assist our clients with this process, as minor errors can lead to delays or rejections.

Step 6: Open a Bank Account

After registration, open a separate bank account in the name of the NGO. You’ll need the registration certificate, PAN card, and resolution from the governing body to authorize the signatories.

Do not use a personal account for NGO-related funds. Keeping financial records separate helps in audits and tax compliance.

Step 7: Apply for PAN and TAN

Every NGO must apply for a PAN card. If you plan to deduct TDS for employees or vendors, apply for a TAN as well. You can do this through the NSDL portal.

PAN is also required for Income Tax benefits and when applying for certifications like 12A and 80G.

Step 8: Apply for Trademark Registration

If you are serious about long-term identity and legal safety, apply for Trademark Registration. Your name, logo, or tagline becomes a registered trademark under the Trademarks Act, 1999.

This step is optional but highly recommended. We often see cases where NGOs face name disputes. A trademark helps you avoid such issues in the future.

Why Choose NGO Experts?

Starting an NGO requires time, legal knowledge, and careful planning. At NGO Experts, we help clients from start to finish. We provide complete support for:

• Documentation and drafting
  
  
• Online registration
  
  
• Darpan Portal Registration
  
  
• Trademark and legal consulting
  
  

We focus on clear guidance. Our legal team works with accuracy and transparency.

Conclusion

Now that you know the procedure to register NGO, take action with confidence. Follow every step with care. From name selection to final registration, each stage plays a vital role in the legal formation of your NGO.

Also, don’t ignore key steps like Darpan Portal Registration and Trademark Registration. These registrations make your NGO credible and legally secure.

If you need expert help, reach out to us at NGO Experts. We ensure your NGO stands on a strong legal foundation—ready to create real change.