How to Start an NGO in India

With over 5 years of expertise in NGO and company registration services, we know the exact steps needed to start an NGO in India:

Decide your mission: Decide the cause, choose the type, and select a unique name

Prepare documents: Draft required deeds (Trust Deed, MoA, AoA), identity proofs, and address details.

Submit documents: Submit the forms and documents to the relevant authority (state registrar or Ministry of Corporate Affairs)

Get Certificates: Obtain your NGO registration certificate, then apply for PAN/TAN and open a bank account in your NGO’s name.

Start operations: Build your team and establish processes for maintaining legal compliance, and grow your NGO for long-term impact.

These steps ensure your organization stands out and earns lasting support.

Overview

Starting an NGO in India today is more than just a mission to create change; it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact and gain nationwide recognition. If you’re wondering how to start an NGO with no money, rest assured that with the right legal framework, proper documentation, and streamlined ngo registration steps, you can successfully register an NGO at minimal or no cost.

Once registered, it’s crucial to list your NGO on NGO Darpan, the official government platform that links NGOs to grants, CSR funds, and donor networks, enhancing both transparency and funding opportunities. Whether you’re figuring out how to open an NGO or seeking a clear step-by-step playbook, this roadmap guides you through each vital phase, empowering you to lead your cause confidently and compliantly.

Types of NGOs & Legal Structures

Type

Governing Act

Min. Members

Best For

Registration Authority

Trust

Indian Trusts Act, 1882

2+ (Trustees)

Local, rural charities

State Registrar of Trusts

Society

Societies Registration Act

Clubs, associations

Registrar of Societies

Section 8 Co.

Companies Act, 2013

2+ (Private), 3+ (Public)

National NGOs, large-scale

ROC / MCA

Start an NGO to Make a Difference

Starting an NGO in India makes a real difference by improving lives, raising awareness, and building stronger communities. Whether you’re wondering how to start an NGO with no money or simply want to know how to get a free NGO registration online, just register your NGO on NGO Darpan, enhancing your credibility and funding opportunities.

However, starting an NGO in India is a rewarding journey that can help children get an education, empower women with new skills, support farmers with sustainable practices, and provide vital disaster relief and environmental protection.

Benefits of Starting an NGO in India

When you start an NGO in India, you gain several benefits, as your passion can turn into meaningful results:

Legal identity and credibility: Registration establishes your NGO as an official entity that can open a dedicated bank account, enter into contracts, and safeguard assets. Access to government and CSR funding: NGOs listed on the NGO Darpan portal are eligible for grants and CSR partnerships. Tax exemptions: Eligible for 12A and 80G registration , allowing donors and the NGO to enjoy tax benefits. Global recognition and transparency: Registered NGOs have higher standing for international work and foreign donations (via FCRA registration). Social impact: Streamlined compliance and organizational standards empower long-term community service and project execution.Read moreRead less

Start an NGO by fulfilling these Eligibility Criteria

Given below is the eligibility criteria to start an NGO in India-

The establishment of an NGO must meet social or charitable purposes. A minimum of seven members is required. Members must be Indian citizens and above 18 years of age. The NGO must have a registered office address in Delhi. A clear plan of action, including MOA and AOA. Must have no engagement in political activities.

Document Required to Start an NGO

Memorandum of Association (MOA); Articles of Association (AOA); The company’s name is for approval. Aadhar Card; Voter ID; Copy of passport; Driving license/ identity proof of all the directors; Address proof of the office, like a water bill, an electricity bill, or a tax receipt.

Step-by-Step Process to Start an NGO

If you want to learn how to start NGO in India online, here is a simple process that can be followed step-by-step.

Step 1: Decide on the Type of NGO

Choosing between a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company depends on the NGO’s purpose, size, and the operational structure you are looking for.

Step 2: Choose a Name for Your NGO

Select a unique and meaningful name that aligns with your organization’s mission and the guidelines set by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to avoid rejection during NGO registration.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

Each NGO structure has specific document requirements. Below is a list of general documents you’ll need to gather:

Identity Proof (Aadhar, PAN, passport) and address proof (electricity bill, rent agreement) for all members. Passport-sized photographs of all members. Registered Office Address Proof: This could include a rent agreement, electricity bill, or a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the landlord if rented. Additional documents, depending on the NGO type:

For Trusts: Trust Deed (signed on stamp paper) detailing objectives, members, and administrative rules. For Societies: Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Rules & Regulations, which outline the organization's objectives and governance. For Section 8 Company: MoA and Articles of Association (AoA) with details on objectives, board members, and operational rules.

Which Registrations are Required to Start an NGO in India?

Once you have submitted all the documents online with the NGO registration fees, you can get your NGO registered under any of these Acts-

Societies Registration Act (In a society, a minimum of seven members are required to be members) Indian Trusts Act (In a charitable trust, at least two people are required; there is no limit on the maximum members) Companies Act (A non-profit company can be registered under section 8 of the Companies Act with the Registrar of Companies.)

Checklist Table: Starting Your NGO

Step

Trust

Society

Section 8 Company

Name Uniqueness

Yes

MOA / Deed

Yes

Governing Body Formed

Yes

Registration Fee

State-based

ROC/MCA-based

Tax Exemption Steps

12A/80G

NGO Darpan Required

Yes

FAQs

1. Is it possible to start my own NGO?

Yes, by understanding the legal roadmap, it is very easy and simple for you to set up an NGO online in India step-by-step.

2. How long does the registration process take?

Typically, it takes 15–30 days to get registered as an NGO with accuracy and precision.

3. Is foreign funding allowed?

Only after obtaining FCRA registration from the Ministry of Home Affairs for NGOs older than three years.

4. Is it mandatory to register on the NGO Darpan portal?

Yes, as of 2025, it is essential for access to government funds, CSR, and tax benefits.

5. Process to start an NGO in India?

To start an NGO in India, first define your mission and choose the right type of NGO. Prepare key documents like the Trust Deed or MoA/AoA, then submit them to the registrar or MCA. Once you receive your NGO Registration Certificate, apply for PAN/TAN, open a bank account, register on NGO Darpan, and finally begin operations with proper compliance in place.