CSR Registration for NGOs in India

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Private companies with huge turnovers have the potential to bring a positive change in society by allocating their resources in the right direction. The best way to do so is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), where businesses allocate resources to support causes that align with the mission and vision of their companies. This presents the NGOs in India with a valuable opportunity to gain momentum in their campaigns and programs. The funding received from these companies can be used to help underprivileged people, leading to the nation’s development. 

However, for Indian NGOs to effectively receive and use the funds donated by the corporations, it is mandatory for companies to register for CSR activities.

Following are some benefits of CSR registration for NGOs which are described below:

  1. Access to Funding: CSR registration allows Indian NGOs to receive funds that are meant to be donated by the corporates to NGOs. These funds can help the ongoing programs gain momentum and help the beneficiaries in many ways. The funds can be allocated to alleviate poverty, provide meals, educate children or clean the environment. Any Indian NGO will be highly benefited from receiving the CSR funds. 
  2. Credibility: CSR registration for NGOs paves the way for establishing the organisation as a legitimate one. Trust and transparency go together when any Indian NGO announces that it has received a substantial amount from a respective corporation. This enhances the chances of receiving more funds from more potential donors and individuals. 
  3. Value Addition: CSR registration for NGOs can help to gain access to other resources beyond financial benefits. This can include things like expertise, and volunteer support. 
  4. Becoming a part of the Government’s agenda: CSR registration for NGOs also plays a vital role in supporting the government’s mission to support development. When they leverage the amount meant for NGO donations, they will help bridge the gap in the social disparity across the country. 
  5. Contributing to National Development: By participating in CSR initiatives, Indian NGOs play a vital role in supporting the government’s social development agenda. When the corporation releases the amount kept aside for NGO donation, it not only fulfills a mandate but contributes to the overall development of the nation. 

6. Building a Stronger Civil Society: A strong CSR ecosystem with active participation from registered Indian NGOs strengthens India’s civil society. NGO donations spread a strong message of philanthropy amongst everyone in society.

The process to follow for CSR registration for NGOs in India

  1. Eligibility: To be eligible for CSR registration, the Indian NGO must be registered under, the Public Trusts Act, 1956, the Societies Registration Act, 1860 or the Companies Act, 2013. Also, the NGO must be working for at least three years addressing the social or environmental issues. 
  1. Documents Required: The documents required for the  CSR registration of NGOs in India may vary depending on the state. 

Some common documents include:

  • A copy of the NGO’s registration certificate
  • PAN card of the NGO
  • Financial statements for the past three years
  • Certificate by the Director of Income Tax
  • Certificate by the Commissioner of Income Tax
  • Proof of experience

3. Online Registration: The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has established an online portal for CSR registration. One can access the portal and register the  Indian NGO by submitting the required documents. 

4. Verification and Approval: The MCA will verify the documents submitted by the Indian NGO. 

5. Certificate of Registration: After successful verification and approval, the MCA will issue a CSR registration certificate to the Indian NGO. 

At Akshaya Chaitanya, we are a registered Indian NGO dedicated to empowering communities through meal distribution. We run several programs in schools, hospitals and communities to solve the problem of hunger on the streets of Mumbai. We have collaborated and wish to partner with purpose-driven companies for the betterment of society. However, individual donations too will go a long way in making an impact. Consider making a donation today to create a more equitable society.