Sanstha Aadhaar Registration is a process introduced to assign a unique identity to organizations, institutions, and NGOs, especially those operating under cooperative, charitable, or public service models. While Aadhaar is commonly associated with individuals, the Sanstha Aadhaar extends this identity concept to non-individual entities, enabling smoother interaction with government schemes, banking systems, and official compliance processes.
This blog explains what Sanstha Aadhaar is, who needs it, how to apply, and its practical uses for organizations in India.
Introduction
Most people are familiar with Aadhaar as a unique identification number assigned to individuals in India. But over the years, there has been a growing need to digitally identify organizations, including trusts, societies, NGOs, cooperative societies, and religious institutions that interact with various government departments and banking systems.
To bridge the gap, the government has designed and launched Sanstha Aadhaar, intended to provide a unique 12-digit Aadhaar-like identification to organisations (Sansthas). The Sanstha Aadhaar will provide easier access to welfare schemes, transparency and help prevent the duplication and misuse of benefits.
What is Sanstha Aadhaar?
Sanstha Aadhaar refers to a unique digital ID assigned to a non-individual entity such as Trusts, NGOs, Societies, Cooperative societies, Section 8 companies, Religious institutions, Educational or healthcare organizations.
It is a 12-digit Aadhaar-like number that acts as a digital identity for the organization. This number can be used while –
- Applying for government grants
- Registering under welfare schemes
- Verifying identity with banks or public agencies
- Complying with statutory reporting requirements
This concept supports the broader push for Digital India and e-Governance, where both individuals and institutions can be digitally verified.
Why Was Sanstha Aadhaar Introduced?
There are multiple reasons why the government created Sanstha Aadhaar –
- To ensure the unique identification of institutions across government databases
- To prevent duplication or misuse of funds and welfare schemes
- To simplify e-verification and compliance processes for public benefit organizations
- To enable easier tracking of institutions that receive public funds or serve public interests
- To support direct benefit transfers (DBT) to eligible organizations
By assigning a Sanstha Aadhaar, the government brings institutional entities under the same digital governance framework as individuals.
Who Needs Sanstha Aadhaar Registration?
Organizations that are eligible or required to get a Sanstha Aadhaar include –
- Registered Societies and Trusts – Especially those availing government schemes, grants, or donations
- NGOs and Charitable Institutions – Operating under the Societies Registration Act or the Indian Trust Act
- Cooperative Societies – Including banks, dairy societies, and multipurpose co-ops
- Educational and Healthcare Institutions – Schools, hospitals, and universities run by non-profit organizations
- Religious and Cultural Bodies – As long as they are legally registered
- Section 8 Companies – Not-for-profit companies under the Companies Act
While Sanstha Aadhaar is not mandatory for all organizations yet, it is increasingly being required to access government benefits, apply for CSR funds, and comply with digital reporting norms.
Documents Required for Sanstha Aadhaar Registration
Before applying, organizations must prepare the following –
- Certificate of Registration / Incorporation
- For Trusts – Trust deed
- For Societies – Society registration certificate
- For Companies – Certificate of Incorporation
- PAN card of the organization
- Proof of registered office address
(Utility bill, rent agreement, or ownership papers)
- Details of the authorized representative
(Usually a founder, trustee, or director – Aadhaar card required)
- Board resolution/authorization letter
Allowing the representative to apply on behalf of the organization
Make sure all documents are scanned, legible, and up-to-date.
How to Apply for Sanstha Aadhaar Registration?
Currently, Sanstha Aadhaar registration is processed through the UIDAI-authorized Aadhaar Seva Kendras or official government portals in some states.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the Nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra – Some Aadhaar Kendras now accept Sanstha Aadhaar registration requests through a separate counter.
- Submit Application Form – Fill out the application form available at the center or online (if offered by your state). It includes details of the organization, its type, and purpose.
- Provide Authorized Signatory Details – The person applying must submit their Aadhaar and authorization proof.
- Submit Documents – Provide digital or physical copies of all supporting documents as mentioned above.
- Biometric Authentication (of Authorized Signatory) – The signatory may be required to give a fingerprint/iris scan for verification.
- Receive Sanstha Aadhaar Number – Once approved, the organization is assigned a unique 12-digit Aadhaar-like number.
- Download or Print Certificate – Some states provide a Sanstha Aadhaar certificate with the number and basic details for future use.
States Offering Sanstha Aadhaar Services
As of now, Maharashtra is one of the first states to actively implement Sanstha Aadhaar, especially through its cooperative department. However, the other states are gradually adopting similar systems to digitize and verify institutions.
Uses and Benefits of Sanstha Aadhaar
Here is how Sanstha Aadhaar helps organizations –
- Access to Government Schemes – Required for applying to schemes related to education, rural development, healthcare, or social welfare.
- Banking & Financial Compliance – Banks may ask for Sanstha Aadhaar when opening accounts for new institutions.
- Digital Identity for Verification – Speeds up background checks and compliance processes.
- Eligibility for CSR Grants – Corporations often require verified identity details before donating under Corporate Social Responsibility.
- Avoids Duplication – Ensures no two institutions are registered under the same name or using fake documents.
- Easier Audits and Transparency – Helps the government track which organizations are active and receiving public funds.
Is Sanstha Aadhaar Mandatory?
While not mandatory for every entity right now, it is gradually becoming essential for –
- Receiving public grants or donations
- Applying under welfare-linked programs
- Complying with cooperative and NGO audit procedures
A lot of state departments and ministries now require Sanstha Aadhaar as a mandatory field in registration or grant applications. Organizations have the opportunity to apply for this Aadhar proactively.
Conclusion
Sanstha Aadhaar Registration is a positive move toward establishing a transparent, accountable, and digitally authenticated ecosystem for institutions across India. Whether you run a trust, NGO, society, or cooperative, getting a Sanstha Aadhaar makes it easier to access government services, receive funding, and fulfill compliance requirements.
As India continues its journey toward digital governance, Sanstha Aadhaar will likely become the standard identity tool for organizations just like Aadhaar has become for individuals.
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