Darpan Registration

What is Darpan Registration?

Darpan Registration is the process of registering a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) or Voluntary Organization (VO) on the NGO Darpan portal, an online platform developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the National Informatics Center (NIC, MeITY). Introduced by the Indian Government in 2015, this portal serves as a centralized database for NGOs, trusts, and VOs across India.
During the Darpan Registration process, NGOs and VOs are required to submit self-declared information regarding their activities, projects, sources of income, and operational details. This helps the government and other stakeholders gain a clearer insight into the impact and reach of NGOs operating in different sectors and regions.

Key Objectives of Darpan Registration for NGOs, Trusts, and VOs:

  1. Facilitating Access to Government Grants and Funding
    Upon registration, NGOs receive a Unique Darpan ID, which simplifies and streamlines the process of applying for government grants and financial aid.
  2. Promoting Transparency and Accountability
    The Darpan portal of NITI Aayog ensures that NGO-related information is publicly accessible, enhancing trust, transparency, and accountability in the sector.
  3. Establishing a Comprehensive National Database
    The centralized database allows for efficient monitoring, management, and evaluation of NGOs, ensuring their contributions to social development are well-documented and recognized.Overall, Darpan Registration is a critical step for NGOs, Trusts, and VOs seeking to strengthen their credibility, access government support, and operate with greater transparency and accountability in their initiatives.
Applicability of Darpan Registration

Any registered Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) or Voluntary Organization (VO) is eligible to apply for NGO Darpan Registration. However, Darpan Registration is mandatory for NGOs and VOs that:

  • Seek foreign contributions under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
  • Apply for government grants under various government schemes and initiatives.

Upon successful registration, organizations receive a Unique Darpan ID, which streamlines the grant application process and ensures transparency in funding and financial transactions.

Who Can Apply for NGO Darpan Registration in India?

The following entities are eligible to register on the NGO Darpan Portal:

  • Registered Trusts
  • Registered Societies
  • Registered Section 8 Companies (Non-Profit Organizations)
  • Charitable Associations
  • Any Other Recognized NGO or VO

By obtaining NGO Darpan Registration, organizations can enhance their credibility, access government funding, and operate with greater transparency and accountability in their social initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria for NGO Darpan Registration

To qualify for NGO Darpan Registration under NITI Aayog, an organization must be legally recognized and fall under one of the following categories:

✅ Trusts – Registered under the Indian Trusts Act
✅ Societies – Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
✅ Non-Profit Companies (Section 8 Companies) – Previously known as Section 25 Companies, registered under the Companies Act, 2013 (formerly Companies Act, 1956)

Important Considerations:

❌ Individuals are not eligible to apply for NGO Darpan registration.
✅ Only registered organizations with proper legal documentation proving their establishment can proceed with the registration process.

NGO Darpan registration enhances credibility, facilitates access to government grants, and improves transparency in NGO operations across India.

Documents Required for NGO Darpan Registration

For nonprofit organizations registering on the NGO Darpan portal, a set of essential documents must be submitted to verify the legitimacy and operational status of the NGO.

Mandatory Documents for Registration:

✅ Address Proof of the NGO – Any official document confirming the organization’s physical location.
✅ PAN Card of the NGO – The Permanent Account Number (PAN) issued in the NGO’s name.
✅ NGO Registration Certificate – A legal document proving the NGO’s registration as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company.

Key Details Required for Darpan ID Registration:

📌 Name of the NGO – The full legal name as per official registration.
📌 Member Details – Names, phone numbers, addresses, and identity proofs of key members.
📌 Grants and Donations Record – Financial records of all grants and donations received over the last five years.
📌 Operational Scope – Details of the geographical and sectoral focus of the NGO’s projects and initiatives.

Ensuring that all documents and details are accurate will facilitate a seamless registration process on the NGO Darpan portal, allowing NGOs to gain government recognition, funding access, and greater transparency.

Benefits of NGO Darpan Registration

Registering on the NGO Darpan portal provides numerous advantages that enhance the credibility, efficiency, and operational capabilities of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Voluntary Organizations (VOs) in India.

Key Benefits of NGO Darpan Registration:

✅ Direct Government Engagement – NGOs and VOs can communicate and collaborate directly with various government ministries and departments, simplifying administrative processes.

✅ Enhanced Credibility – Registration establishes legitimacy and improves the public perception of NGOs, increasing trust from donors, stakeholders, and the government.

✅ Access to Government Grants & Funding – Upon registration, NGOs receive a Unique Darpan ID, a mandatory requirement when applying for government grants, schemes, and funding opportunities.

✅ Real-Time Updates on Grants – The portal keeps NGOs informed about available grants, funding programs, and new initiatives, ensuring they never miss an opportunity.

✅ Seamless Information Flow – NGOs receive official government updates on policies, schemes, and regulations, enhancing operational efficiency.

✅ Comprehensive Database for Policy-Making – The Darpan portal serves as a national repository, helping in research, policy formulation, and NGO sector analysis.

✅ Multiple Grant Validation – Once registered, NGOs can apply for multiple government grants without the need for repetitive validation, making funding access more streamlined.

✅ Improved Public Image & Visibility – Being listed on the NGO Darpan platform enhances the public reputation, recognition, and goodwill of NGOs, attracting more donors and volunteers.

By obtaining NGO Darpan Registration, organizations strengthen their credibility, expand their funding opportunities, and gain better access to government resources, ultimately boosting their impact on society.