✅ Summary
In summary, India's kinds of NGOs can be categorized both legally (trusts, societies, Section 8 businesses) and functionally (environment, health, education, etc.). Knowing the different types of NGOs assists in selecting the best structure for your company based on its objectives.
How Many Types of NGOs in India?
India is home to a large network of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are vital to environmental maintenance, social development, helping others, healthcare, and education. The number of different kinds of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in India can be found in both their functional categories and their legal framework. For deep information about NGOs, you can connect with the Registration Guru website, where you will get full knowledge about how to register an NGO, what the process is, and a list of documents, etc.
📖 Define Non-Governmental Organization
Let's first clarify what a nongovernmental organization is:
A legally recognized, non-profit, voluntary organization founded by people or communities that operates independently of the government to further social or public causes is known as a non-governmental organization (NGO).
The definition of a non-governmental organization in India is accepted by a number of laws and statutes, enabling NGOs to conduct their business in an open and moral manner.
🧾 Types of NGO in India by Legal Structure
In India, there are three primary NGO categories according to their legal registration:
Trusts— Trust registered with the 1882 Indian Trusts Act.
Perfect for religious and philanthropic endeavors like managing elderly homes or schools.
Societies—The registration of societies is governed by the Societies Registration Act of 1860.
Ideal for social service, educational, or cultural projects. A managing committee is necessary for societies.
Section 8 Companies— Section 8 Companies are businesses that were registered in accordance with Section 8 of the Companies Act of 2013.
These are the most reputable and regulated kinds of NGOs, making them perfect for sizable, expertly managed charities.
According to Indian law, these are the fundamental categories of non-governmental organizations. Each has unique benefits and compliance requirements, particularly when applying for government programs or international funding.
📚 Function-Based NGO Categories
In addition to their legal standing, NGOs can be grouped according to the type of activity they do. Different kinds of NGOs that function in various industries include:
Charitable NGOs— Charitable NGOs: The primary objectives of charitable NGOs are to improve living conditions and development
Educational NGOs— NGOs that support education in schools, literacy, and skill development
Health NGOs— NGOs that focus on health, sanitation, and disease awareness in rural areas
Environmental NGOs— Deal with trash management, forest regeneration, and climate change
Human rights NGOs: Advance labor rights, gender equality, and those living in poverty
These are also referred to as types of human rights NGOs and are important for raising awareness and changing the law.
🌍 Non Government Organisation Examples
Examples of Non-Governmental Organizations
Here are a few noteworthy instances of non-governmental organizations in India:
CRY (Child Rights and You)— Child welfare, or CRY (Child Rights and You)
Goonj— Disaster relief and rural development
HelpAge India— Care for the elderly
Greenpeace India— Action for the Environment
These examples show the various NGOs that are dedicated to making a difference in India.
FAQs on How many Types of NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations)
❓1. What is the definition of an NGO?
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a non-profit, voluntary group formed by individuals or communities to address various social, cultural, humanitarian, or environmental issues independently from government control.
❓2. How many types of NGOs are there in India?
India has three main types of NGOs based on legal registration:
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Trusts
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Societies
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Section 8 Companies
❓3. What makes a society different from a trust?
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The Indian Trusts Act of 1882 governs how trustees oversee a trust.
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A Society is governed democratically by a governing body and is registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
❓4. Which type of NGO is suitable for receiving foreign donations?
All types of NGOs (Trust, Society, Section 8 Company) can receive foreign donations, but they must register under the FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) to do so.
❓5. Which type of NGO is best for scalability and funding?
A Section 8 Company's organized governance and legal credibility make it the most suitable for expansion, transparency, and obtaining foreign investment and CSR.
❓6. Do NGOs in India need to be registered?
Yes, to operate legally and receive donations or government aid, registration of NGOs under the appropriate legal structure (Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company) is essential.
❓7. Is it possible for an individual to establish an NGO in India?
A Section 8 corporation or trust may be established by an individual as well. However, forming a Society usually requires at least 7 members from different states (for national-level societies).