ISBN Number Registration in India

What is an ISBN Number?

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit code used to identify books and other published materials globally. Assigned to each edition and variation (except reprints) of a book, this number helps publishers, bookstores, libraries, and distributors efficiently locate and manage titles in their inventories.

In India, the allocation of ISBNs is governed by the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN, which operates under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

Breaking Down the 13-Digit ISBN Code

The 13-digit ISBN is a carefully structured identifier consisting of 5 parts:

1. Prefix Element: Usually 978 or 979.
2. Registration Group Element: Identifies the country or language area (e.g., 81 for India).
3. Registrant Element: Identifies the publisher or imprint.
4. Publication Element: Identifies the specific title or edition.
5. Check Digit: The final digit used to validate the ISBN.

Who Needs an ISBN Number in India?

An ISBN is essential for anyone involved in publishing printed or digital books:

• Authors (Self-Publishing): Needed for each format (paperback, eBook) to distribute via bookstores or online.
• Traditional Publishers: Required for inventory management and sales tracking.
• Educational Institutions: For journals, textbooks, and research materials.
• Government & NGOs: For research reports, manuals, and booklets.

Documents Required for ISBN Application

For Individual Authors:

• Government-issued ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, or Passport).
• Cover page or manuscript of the book (PDF/JPG).
• Undertaking/declaration (if self-publishing).

For Publishers:

• ID proof of authorized person.
• Publisher’s certificate or business proof (GST, PAN, etc.).
• Cover page or manuscript.
• Authorization letter.

How to Get an ISBN Number in India

1. New Applicant Registration: Sign up on the official ISBN portal (isbn.gov.in).
2. Fill Registration Form: Enter details and upload required documents.
3. Account Approval: Wait for RRRNA to approve your registration (7-15 days).
4. Apply for New ISBN: Log in and submit a request for a single title or bulk allotment.
5. Fill Book Details: Enter title, author, language, format, etc., and upload the cover/manuscript.
6. Submit & Wait: Submit the application and wait for allotment (10-20 days).
7. ISBN Allotment: Download the allotted ISBN from your dashboard.

ISBN for E-books

E-books require a separate ISBN from their print counterparts. This ensures better discoverability, proper cataloging in digital libraries, and accurate sales tracking. While platforms like Amazon Kindle don't strictly mandate it, having one adds professionalism and allows wider distribution.

Converting ISBN to Barcode

Once you have your ISBN, you need to convert it into a barcode for physical sales.

1. Get your 13-digit ISBN.
2. Use a Barcode Generator: Create an EAN-13 barcode image.
3. Add Price Code (Optional): A 5-digit add-on for the price.
4. Place on Cover: Add the barcode image to the back cover of your book.