SOCIETY ASSOCIATION REGISTRATION

1. Introduction

A Society or Association is a non-profit group formed by individuals who voluntarily come together for charitable, cultural, educational, social, scientific, sports, or community development purposes. To operate legally and transparently, registration of the Society/Association is essential under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or corresponding State laws (e.g., West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961).

2. Purpose of Registering a Society / Association

• To obtain a legal identity
• Ensure transparency and accountability in operations
• Open a bank account in the name of the Society
• Acquire government grants, CSR funds, and donations
• Enter into contracts and own property
• Avoid internal disputes and ensure smooth management

3. Activities Generally Covered

• Education and literacy promotion
• Health, sanitation, and medical services
• Skill training and employment generation
• Social welfare and welfare of weaker sections
• Environment, agriculture, and animal welfare
• Sports, culture, art, and recreation
• Community development
• Research and development
• Women empowerment and child development

4. Legal Framework

A Society / Association may be registered under:

1. Societies Registration Act, 1860 (Central Act)

2. State-specific Acts

• West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961
• Karnataka Societies Registration Act
• Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, etc.

3. Section 8 Company (Alternative option under Companies Act)

Most NGOs and Associations are registered under the Societies Act.

5. Minimum Requirements

• Minimum 7 Members (for most states)
• Members must be above 18 years of age
• One President, Secretary, and Treasurer must be selected
• Registered Office Address proof
• Clear objectives and activity plan

6. Documents Required for Society / Association Registration

1. Memorandum of Association (MOA)
2. Rules & Regulations / By-laws
3. KYC of all members (Aadhaar, PAN, photos)
4. Address proof of Registered Office
5. NOC from owner / Rent Agreement
6. Resolution for formation of Society
7. Affidavit / Declaration
8. Executive Committee List
9. Covering Letter for Registration

7. Structure of Society (Basic Governance)

• General Body
• Executive Committee / Governing Body
• President / Chairperson
• Secretary / General Secretary
• Treasurer
• Other members (Vice-President, Joint Secretary, etc.)

8. Steps for Society Registration

1. Conduct a preliminary meeting
2. Draft MOA and Rules & Regulations
3. Collect KYC documents of all members
4. Prepare formation Resolution
5. File application with Registrar of Societies
6. Pay the registration fees
7. Verification by Registrar
8. Issuance of Certificate of Registration

9. Post-Registration Compliances

• Conduct Annual General Meeting (AGM)
• Maintain Minutes Book
• Maintain Accounts & Balance Sheet
• File Annual Returns
• Apply for PAN, 12A & 80G

10. Advantages of Registering a Society / Association

• Legal identity and official recognition
• Eligibility for government funding & CSR grants
• Ability to receive donations legally
• Greater public trust and credibility
• Ability to own property and hire staff

11. Important Notes

• Societies cannot distribute profit among members
• Activities must align strictly with objectives
• Proper accounting and transparency are mandatory
• Changes must be filed with Registrar

12. Conclusion

Society / Association Registration is essential for any non-profit organization. A registered society enjoys legal recognition, transparency, financial accountability, and opportunities for grants and donations.