Blog Information

• Posted By : Prachi Singh
• Posted On : Apr 14, 2025
• Views : 10
• Category : Education
• Description : FCRA Registration and NITI Aayog Registration is essential. These two registrations serve as the gateway to legal recognition, financial support, and operational credibility. FCRA Registration, governed by the FCRA Act 2010, permits organizations to legally receive foreign donations, ensuring transparency and compliance with national regulations. On the other hand, NITI Aayog Registration through the NGO DARPAN portal connects NGOs to various government departments and is a prerequisite for availing CSR-1 funding. Together, these registrations help build trust with both international donors and domestic partners.
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Overview

• For any NGO or nonprofit in India aiming to make a meaningful impact, securing FCRA Registration and NITI Aayog Registration is essential. These two registrations serve as the gateway to legal recognition, financial support, and operational credibility. FCRA Registration, governed by the FCRA Act 2010, permits organizations to legally receive foreign donations, ensuring transparency and compliance with national regulations. On the other hand, NITI Aayog Registration through the NGO DARPAN portal connects NGOs to various government departments and is a prerequisite for availing CSR-1 funding. Together, these registrations help build trust with both international donors and domestic partners. They also lay the groundwork for further certifications like Section 8 Company Registration, 12A and 80G Registration, enabling NGOs to enjoy tax benefits and sustainable funding. In an increasingly regulated environment, these compliances aren't just formalities—they are critical tools for growth, trust, and long-term impact.

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  What is FCRA?

  The FCRA Full Form is the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act. This Act was introduced in 1976 and later amended as FCRA Act 2010. It governs how NGOs and other entities in India receive and utilize foreign contributions.

  Objectives of the FCRA Act 2010

  The primary goal is to:

  • Ensure foreign funds are not used for activities against national interest.
  • Monitor the flow and usage of foreign contributions.
  • Promote transparency in NGO operations.

  Importance of FCRA Registration for NGOs

  FCRA Registration is mandatory if your NGO plans to receive donations from abroad. This registration:

  • Enhances the credibility of your organization.
  • Enables smooth fund transfer through authorized bank accounts.
  • Prevents legal complications.

  Eligibility Criteria:

  • The NGO must be registered under the Societies Registration Act, Indian Trust Act, or Section 8 Company Registration.
  • Must have a clean record and be operational for at least three years.
  • Should have spent ₹10 lakhs in voluntary activities (excluding administrative expenses) over the last three years.

  FCRA Registration Process Explained

  Two Types of Registrations:

  • Prior Permission (PP): For new NGOs expecting a specific donation from a particular source.
  • Permanent Registration: For NGOs with at least 3 years of experience in social work.

  Steps to Register FCRA Online:

  • Visit FCRA Online Portal
  • Register and generate login credentials.
  • Fill Form FC-3A or FC-3B based on the type.
  • Upload necessary documents like:
  1. Registration Certificate
  2. PAN
  3. Statement of Activities
  4. Bank details
  • Pay the required fee and submit.

  FCRA Renewal Status: Checking & Monitoring

  FCRA registration must be renewed every five years. To check your FCRA Renewal Status:

  • Visit the FCRA Online Portal.
  • Use your registration number to track the application.
  • Status will show "Under Process", "Granted", or "Rejected".

  Delays often occur due to missing documents, discrepancies in returns, or pending inquiries.

  FCRA Online Services You Should Know

  The FCRA Online portal provides services like:

  • New registration and renewal
  • Quarterly and annual return filing
  • Intimation of changes (like address or bank)
  • Viewing granted applications and rejected ones

  This platform brings transparency and digitization to the entire compliance process.

  The FCRA Act and FCRA Act 2010

  The FCRA Act lays the foundation for regulating foreign donations in India. The FCRA Act 2010 introduced stricter norms:

  • Capping administrative expenses at 20%
  • Mandatory renewal every 5 years
  • Restrictions on transfer of foreign funds to other NGOs

  These measures ensure foreign funds are used for genuine development purposes.

  What is NITI Aayog Registration?

  The NITI Aayog Registration is done on the NGO DARPAN Portal, managed by the Planning Commission of India. It's a digital interface between NGOs and the government.

  Key Benefits:

  • Eligibility for government funding
  • Enhanced visibility and trust
  • Required for CSR-1 Registration

  Step-by-Step NITI Aayog Registration Process

  • Visit NGO DARPAN Portal
  • Create a user ID using your NGO’s email.
  • Fill in organization details (PAN, address, registration number).
  • Upload documents like:
  • Trust Deed/ MOA
  • PAN of NGO
  • List of governing body members
  • Submit and wait for unique ID generation.

  Section 8 Company Registration and Its Role

  A Section 8 Company is a non-profit organization registered under the Companies Act, 2013. It's preferred for:

  • Transparency and structure
  • Easy access to CSR funds
  • Compliance with both FCRA and NITI Aayog norms

  Importance of 12A and 80G Registration

  • 12A Registration: Grants income tax exemption to NGOs.
  • 80G Registration: Allows donors to claim deductions.

  These certifications enhance fundraising capabilities and are essential for long-term sustainability.

  What is CSR-1 Registration?

  Introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, CSR-1 is required by NGOs to receive CSR funds from companies. Only NGOs registered on:

  • NGO DARPAN
  • Have 12A and 80G

  are eligible to apply for CSR-1.

  Compliance After FCRA and NITI Aayog Registration

  After registration, NGOs must:

  • File annual returns (FCRA return, Income Tax return)
  • Maintain transparency in fund usage
  • Update changes on both FCRA and NITI Aayog portals

  Non-compliance may lead to cancellation or blacklisting.

  FCRA and NITI Aayog Registration for New NGOs

  For newly registered NGOs:

  • Start with NITI Aayog Registration
  • Apply for 12A & 80G
  • Once you have a foreign donor, apply for FCRA Prior Permission

  Conclusion

  The legal framework for NGOs in India requires a clear of key registrations like FCRA Registration and NITI Aayog Registration. These are essential for receiving foreign contributions, accessing government schemes, and enhancing organizational credibility. Coupled with other important compliances such as Section 8 Company Registration, 12A and 80G Registration, and CSR-1 Registration, they ensure your NGO operates within the bounds of the law while maximizing its outreach. Utilizing FCRA Online Services and monitoring your FCRA Renewal Status regularly helps maintain transparency and avoid disruptions. With adherence to the FCRA Act 2010 and proactive compliance, your organization can focus on what truly matters—creating positive, lasting change. Let these registrations be the foundation of your growth and impact journey.

  FAQs

  Q1. What is the difference between FCRA Registration and NITI Aayog Registration?

  Ans. FCRA Registration allows NGOs to legally receive foreign contributions, while NITI Aayog Registration is required to access government grants and CSR funds. FCRA focuses on foreign donations under the FCRA Act 2010, whereas NITI Aayog connects NGOs with government programs via the NGO DARPAN portal.

  Q2. Can a newly registered NGO apply for FCRA Registration?

  Ans. Yes, but only under Prior Permission if they expect a specific foreign donation. For Permanent FCRA Registration, the NGO must be at least 3 years old with proven social activities worth ₹10 lakhs.

  Q3. Is NITI Aayog Registration mandatory for CSR-1 filing?

  Ans. Yes. NITI Aayog Registration with a valid NGO DARPAN ID is compulsory to apply for CSR-1 Registration, which allows NGOs to receive corporate CSR funds.

  Q4. How can I check my FCRA Renewal Status?

  Ans. You can check the FCRA Renewal Status on the FCRA Online Portal using your registration credentials under the 'Track Status' section.

  Q5. What documents are required for NITI Aayog and FCRA Registration?

  Ans. For NITI Aayog, you need a registration certificate, PAN, and governing body details. For FCRA, you’ll need audited accounts, activity reports, NGO PAN, registration deed, and a designated FCRA bank account.