The NGO Darpan portal is a national-level portal for voluntary organizations and NGOs; it serves as a platform for registering, processing government applications, and connecting various Ministries and departments through the use of the portal. Once registered, NGOs receive a unique ID and a downloadable NGO Darpan certificate, which is often required when applying for government grants or submitting compliance documents.
This blog explains how to download the NGO Darpan certificate, what information it contains, and why it is important for NGO operations in India.
Introduction
For any NGO in India that intends to be transparent and to be eligible for government schemes or CSR associations, registering on the NGO Darpan portal is the first step to take. Being registered on Darpan gives the NGO credibility and allows it to apply for grants, submit proposals for projects, and be recognized by the government
Once registered successfully, an NGO would receive an NGO Darpan Unique ID and a certificate generated that provides basic organizational credentials. The certificate acts as digital proof of registration on the portal and is often requested during funding applications, compliance checks, or in a public forum.
However, many first-time users are not sure where to find or how to download this certificate once their application is approved.
What is the NGO Darpan Certificate?
The NGO Darpan certificate is a digital document issued by the NGO Darpan portal (https://ngodarpan.gov.in) after an NGO or voluntary organization successfully registers and is assigned a Unique ID. It serves as –
- Proof of registration with NITI Aayog
- Confirmation of the organization’s basic legal and operational details
- An essential document for grant applications and scheme eligibility
It typically contains the following –
- Name and registration number of the NGO
- Legal status (Trust, Society, Section 8 Company, etc.)
- Address and contact details
- Unique NGO Darpan ID
- Date of registration on the portal
The certificate does not serve as a license or legal incorporation certificate it only confirms registration with the NITI Aayog platform for interface with government departments.
Preconditions Before Downloading the Certificate
To download the certificate, your NGO must –
- Have completed registration on https://ngodarpan.gov.in
- Received approval and the Unique ID
- Have an active login ID and password for the portal
If your application is pending, the certificate will not be available yet.
Steps to Download the NGO Darpan Certificate Online
Step 1. Visit the NGO Darpan Portal
You have to visit https://ngodarpan.gov.in. This is the official site operated by NITI Aayog.
Step 2. Login to Your Account
Click on the “Login” button at the top right of our home page and enter your email ID and password. If you forgot the password, you may use the “Forgot Password” way to reset your login credentials.
Step 3. Access Your Dashboard
Once you are logged in, you will be directed to the dashboard for your organization, showing all your submitted details and application status.
Step 4. Locate the Certificate Option
On the left-hand menu or in the main profile section, you will find a tab or button labelled “Download Certificate”, “Print Certificate”, or “Download NGO Darpan ID Certificate”. Click it.
Step 5. Download the Certificate
The certificate will open in PDF format. You can download and save this for your records. It is digitally stamped and does not require a physical signature from the authorities.
Why is the NGO Darpan Certificate Important?
For the NGOs that work with Government Departments, Ministries and their CSR partners, this certificate –
- Identifies the NGO within a government-recognized portal
- It is often a required supporting document for government applications for funding
- Will build trust and transparency with stakeholders
- This will allow the organization to receive updates and access from its government agency
- Acts as an additional proof of existence alongside trust/society/company registration
Several ministries now require NGO Darpan registration and certificate submission for any form of financial assistance.
What If the Certificate Option is not available?
Sometimes, users cannot see the download option even after successful registration. In that case-
- Check whether your profile is fully updated, including office bearers, PAN, and registration documents.
- Make sure your application has been approved, not just saved or submitted.
- Try logging in after a few hours or the next day; there could be a system sync delay.
- If the issue persists, contact support@ngodarpan.gov.in with your Unique ID and organization name.
How to Use the NGO Darpan Certificate?
Once downloaded, the certificate can be –
- Attached to project proposals and government grant applications
- Submitted to CSR partners as a supporting document
- Uploaded in online registration systems (such as FCRA and DARPAN linking in PFMS)
- Used for recordkeeping and audits
- Printed and displayed at your NGO’s office or events for transparency
Always keep a digital and printed copy available for quick access.
Conclusion
The Darpan certificate is an important digital document that proves your organization is registered with the central government NGO registry in India. Whether you are seeking funding, partnering with ministries, or enhancing your organization’s transparency, the ability to say you have the Darpan certificate means you are registered or recognized as a compliant organization with current norms.
Downloading the Darpan certificate is straightforward, assuming your profile is stand-alone, verified, and complete. Just log in, apply for approval, and without hesitation, ensure you always have updated information in your profile in the portal. This is a small but crucial next step in establishing your NGO’s credibility and eligibility within the public sector ecosystem.
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