What is Darpan Registration?
NGO Darpan is a platform maintained by NITI Aayog to create a centralized database of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Voluntary Organizations (VOs) in India. Registration on this portal generates a unique Darpan ID, which acts as an official identity for the NGO.
This ID is mandatory for NGOs seeking government grants, funding, or schemes from Central and State Ministries. It also enhances transparency and accountability in the non-profit sector.
Who Can Register on the Darpan Portal?
Any Voluntary Organization (VO) or Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) which is registered as a legal entity in India can apply. This includes:
- Registered Societies: Under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
- Public Charitable Trusts: Under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, or state-specific Public Trusts Acts.
- Section 8 Companies: Non-profit companies registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.
Note: Individuals and unregistered groups cannot apply for Darpan registration.
Documents Required for Registration
To ensure a smooth registration process, keep the following documents ready:
- Registration Certificate: Copy of the registration certificate of the Society, Trust, or Section 8 Company (as PDF/JPG).
- PAN Card of NGO: A valid PAN card issued in the name of the organization.
- Key Members' Details: Name, Date of Birth, Designation, Mobile Number, Email ID, and PAN/Aadhaar of at least 3 key office bearers (President, Secretary, Treasurer).
- Trust Deed / MOA & AOA: Governing documents of the organization.
- Audited Accounts: While not always mandatory for initial registration, having audited financial statements is crucial for grant applications.
Step-by-Step Registration Process
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official NGO Darpan website (ngodarpan.gov.in).
- Sign Up: Click on 'Sign Up' and create an account using the NGO's name, email, and mobile number. Verify via OTP.
- Fill Details: Log in and fill in the required details such as PAN, registration number, date of registration, and address.
- Add Members: Enter the details of at least three key members of the governing body (e.g., President, Secretary).
- Upload Documents: Upload the scanned copy of the Registration Certificate and Trust Deed/MOA.
- Submit: Review all information and submit the application.
- Verification: The application is verified by the system/officials. Upon approval, a unique Darpan ID is generated.
Benefits of Darpan Registration
- Access to Grants: Mandatory for applying to government grants and schemes.
- Credibility: Enhances the trust and credibility of the NGO among donors and the public.
- FCRA Registration: A Darpan ID is now a prerequisite for FCRA registration and renewal.
- Information Sharing: Helps in seamless information flow between the government and the voluntary sector.
- Database Listing: The NGO gets listed in the national database, increasing visibility.
Validity & Renewal
The Darpan Registration is generally a one-time process and the ID is valid for a lifetime. However, NGOs must keep their profile updated.
- Profile Update: Any change in the governing body (office bearers) or contact details must be updated on the portal immediately.
- Annual Compliance: While there is no "renewal fee," keeping the profile current is considered a compliance requirement.
