Society Registration
Society Registration is a legal process that gives formal recognition to a group of people working together for charitable, cultural, educational, or social purposes. By registering under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, societies gain credibility, legal status, and the ability to receive grants and donations. It also ensures proper governance and transparency in operations.
Types of Society Registration
Society registration allows groups to operate legally while providing transparency, credibility, and access to funding.
State-Level Society Registration
Registered with the Registrar of Societies of a particular state; operations limited to state boundaries.
National-Level Society Registration
Registered for operations across multiple states; requires members from different states during incorporation.
Educational Society
Focused on running schools, colleges, or educational programs.
Charitable Society
Formed to provide social welfare, scholarships, or aid to underprivileged communities.
Cultural & Art Society
Established to promote cultural, artistic, or heritage initiatives.
Professional/Skill-Based Society
Focused on vocational training, skill development, or professional services.
Why Society Registration Is Important?
Minimum Membership
A minimum of 7 members is required to form a society.
Legal Documentation
Societies must have a Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Rules & Regulations.
Separate Legal Entity
Registration provides a legal entity, allowing the society to own property, enter contracts, and open bank accounts.
Governance & Transparency
Ensures proper governance with structured meetings, records, and decision-making processes.
FAQs
How many people are required to form a society?
A minimum of 7 members is required to register a society in India.
Can a society operate without registration?
Yes, but without registration, it cannot claim legal status, open bank accounts, or apply for government schemes.
What documents are needed for society registration?
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Rules & Regulations
- ID proofs of members
- Address proof of the society office
Can a society earn profits?
No, societies cannot distribute profits to members. Any income must be used for the society’s objectives.
How long does society registration take?
Usually 30–45 days, depending on state laws and document verification.