Why a Darpan ID matters
Darpan is a single register of voluntary organisations that government departments can check before funding one. It doesn't create the organisation or give it any tax status — it records an organisation that already exists, under an ID that other systems then refer to.
In practice, the Darpan ID is quoted in grant applications to ministries, in FCRA applications, and in many state schemes. An organisation that plans to apply for any of those should register early, because the details on Darpan have to match the organisation's registration documents and PAN exactly.
Documents and details required
- Registration certificate of the trust, society or Section 8 company.
- PAN of the organisation.
- Trust deed, memorandum and bye-laws, or MOA and AOA.
- Details of key functionaries — name, designation, PAN and Aadhaar.
- Registered address, contact email and mobile number for the organisation.
- Details of the sectors and districts where the organisation works, and of past grants, if any.
The registration process
Check the source documents
Name, registration number, date and address are matched across the registration certificate and PAN before anything is entered.
Create the account
The organisation's account is created on the portal using its email and mobile number.
Enter organisation and functionary details
Registration details, key functionaries, areas of work and other profile information are entered.
Validation
The portal validates the organisation's PAN and the functionaries' details.
Darpan ID issued
Once the profile is submitted, the unique Darpan ID is generated.
Practical notes from our engagements
- Name spelt differently from the PAN. Even a missing full stop can fail validation. We copy the name exactly as it appears on the PAN.
- Functionaries changed but Darpan not updated. Grant and FCRA applications are checked against Darpan. Keep the profile current whenever trustees or office-bearers change.
- Registering only when a grant deadline is close. Validation can take time. Register as soon as the organisation has its PAN.
How we handle NGO Darpan registration
We reconcile the organisation's details across its registration certificate, PAN and constitutional documents first, then register on the portal and give you the Darpan ID with a note of what to update when things change. Where FCRA or a government grant is the next step, we plan both together.
Related services
Frequently asked questions
Is NGO Darpan registration compulsory?
It isn't a registration of the organisation itself, and nothing makes every NGO register. It is, however, required for grants from central ministries and departments, and for an FCRA application — so most active NGOs need it.
Who can register on NGO Darpan?
Registered trusts, societies and Section 8 companies. An organisation has to be registered under its own law first.
Is there a fee for Darpan registration?
There's no government fee for registering on the portal.
Does a Darpan ID give tax exemption?
No. Tax exemption comes from registration under the Income-tax Act — Section 332 from 1 April 2026 (earlier 12A/12AB).
What if our trustees or office-bearers change?
Update the Darpan profile. Grant and FCRA applications are checked against it, and a mismatch can hold them up.