Darpan Registration for NGO's

Darpan Registration | Darpan Registration Process

In India, Darpan Registration is the official way for NGOs and voluntary organizations to register on the NGO Darpan portal, a platform developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with National Informatics Centre (NIC).

In the evolving landscape of non-profit organizations (NGOs) in India, ensuring transparency, accountability, and seamless communication with government bodies is more critical than ever. One of the key initiatives supporting these goals is the NGO Darpan registration. Launched by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in collaboration with NITI Aayog, this portal is designed to create an effective interface between NGOs and government departments, ministries, and other official bodies.

In this blog, we will explore the significance of Darpan registration for NGOs, its importance, and the mandatory requirements for updating details, especially for those already holding a Darpan ID.

What is the NGO Darpan Portal?

The NGO Darpan Portal is an online platform that acts as a bridge between voluntary organizations (VOs), NGOs, and key government ministries and departments. It is a unique initiative that aims to enhance cooperation between the government sector and the voluntary sector in India. By providing a space for NGOs to register, the portal creates a centralized repository of information about these organizations, segmented by sector and state.

The primary purpose of the portal is to offer a Unique Darpan ID to registered organizations, which helps streamline the process of receiving essential government updates and services. This includes notifications about government grants, financial assistance, and other opportunities relevant to the NGO sector.

Why is Darpan Registration Important for NGOs?

1. Government Benefits & Grants: The NGO Darpan registration allows organizations to receive timely and important updates about government schemes, grants, and programs that they can benefit from. Without this registration, it becomes difficult for NGOs to stay informed about new opportunities and changes in policies.

2. Transparency & Accountability: By registering on the Darpan portal, NGOs demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability in their operations. This is especially critical when NGOs seek foreign contributions or need to comply with various regulatory requirements.

3. Access to FCRA Services: The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) mandates that NGOs receiving foreign contributions must register with the Darpan Portal to receive a Unique ID. This registration is essential for FCRA-related services such as registration, renewal, change of details, and uploading of annual returns. Without this ID, NGOs will face difficulties in receiving foreign donations.

4. Mandatory Requirement for Bank Account Opening: According to a circular issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) all NGOs are now required to update their Darpan ID when opening a bank account. This step helps ensure that financial transactions are transparent and properly tracked, reducing the risk of financial mismanagement or fraud.

5. Government-NGO Collaboration: The Darpan Portal also fosters a stronger partnership between the government and the voluntary sector. It encourages NGOs to work closely with various government bodies to achieve common developmental goals, thereby contributing to nation-building efforts.

Darpan Registration: A Mandatory Requirement for NGOs

The registration on the Darpan Portal is no longer optional for NGOs, particularly for those involved in accepting foreign contributions. The government has made it clear that all FCRA-registered NGOs, as well as those seeking FCRA registration or prior permission, must complete the Darpan registration process.

According to a circular issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) , all NGOs are now required to update their Darpan ID when opening a bank account. This step helps ensure that financial transactions are transparent and properly tracked, reducing the risk of financial mismanagement or fraud.

Documents Required for Darpan Registration

To ensure a smooth and successful registration process on the NGO Darpan Portal, please gather the following documents in PDF format (less than 2 MB) before starting your application. The documents must be color scanned and should be the original, valid versions:

• Original Registration certificate and complete Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Trust Deed. Clearly showing the stamp/e-sign of the Office of Registrar of Societies / Trust/Section 8 Companies any other registering authority.

• Scanned copy of By-Laws of the Organization

• Certified list of present Governing Body Members

• The latest Resolution copy, if any

• If any of the above documents are in vernacular languages other than Hindi or English, the translated version of the documents in Hindi or English should be duly attested by the head of the organization and scanned and merged with the original documents to create a single PDF file.

• PAN Card number of the NPO (automatically verified online).

• PAN and Aadhaar Card Numbers of Chairman/President/Secretary/ Treasurer/members or equivalent post in the organization, which will be automatically verified online. A minimum of 1 office bearers is required.

• NPO / Entity Name given during the registration process should exactly match the one given on the PAN Card of the NPO.

• The email and mobile number used for the signing-up process should belong to the organisation's. Using any other organisation's key contact details will lead to cancellation of the registration without any intimation

• Please carefully fill out all details of the registration process fields. If any false/misleading information is found, the NPO DARPAN Unique ID of the organization will be suspended/cancelled immediately without any intimation.

Updating Your Darpan ID: What NGOs Need to Know

For NGOs that are already registered with the Darpan Portal, it is crucial to regularly update their organization details. This includes changes in the following areas:

• Organization Address: If your NGO has moved to a new location or has changed its registered address, this must be updated on the Darpan Portal.

• Board Members: Changes in the governing body of the NGO, including new appointments or resignations, should be updated to maintain accurate records.

• Contact Information: Any updates to your email, phone number, or other contact details should be promptly reflected in the system.

• FCRA Details: If your organization is registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), make sure to update any changes related to FCRA registration or related documentation.

NGO Darpan registration is not just a procedural requirement; it is an essential step for ensuring that your NGO remains compliant with government regulations and can avail itself of various benefits and grants. The portal serves as a bridge between the voluntary and government sectors, promoting transparency, accountability, and efficient collaboration.

For NGOs already registered with Darpan, it is important to keep your organization’s details up-to-date to ensure that you do not face any disruptions in receiving foreign funds, government grants, or FCRA services. Registering and maintaining your Darpan ID is a small step that can lead to significant benefits in the long run, fostering better growth and sustainability for your organization.

Important note: All NPOs that signed up and uploaded their documents before March 7, 2025, but did not generate a Darpan Unique ID, must reinitiate the signup process, as their old credentials will no longer be valid. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Need Assistance with Darpan Registration?

If your organization requires support with Darpan Registration, updating existing details, or navigating the compliance process, our team is here to help.

Email : contactngoguide@gmail.com

Phone: 8867348678