What is CSR 1?

CSR or Corporate Social Responsibility, is an idea that businesses globally are rapidly adopting. It corresponds to businesses taking responsibility for their impact on society and the environment and giving back to society in a way to make things better.

In India, CSR rules were introduced in 2013. These rules apply to companies with a net worth of ₹500 crore or more or a turnover of ₹1,000 crore or more. It mandates the companies to spend 2% of their average net profits from the previous three financial years on CSR activities. The idea is to encourage businesses to contribute more to society and the environment. There are several ways businesses can get involved in CSR activities, including:

• Financial support to NGOs working on social or environmental projects.
• Running community development programs.
• Undertaking environmental protection initiatives.

Form CSR 1 Registration is a facility for registered NGOs like Trust, Society, Company registered under Section 8 of Companies Act, 2013, to get CSR funding from corporations and undertake CSR activities. MCA has mandated Form CSR 1 to be filed to Central Govt for getting Funds or for undertaking CSR activities. After successful registration the MCA issues a registration certificate to the NGO, which is valid for a duration of three years. After the expiry of the three-year period, the NGO can renew its registration by submitting a fresh application to the MCA.

What is CSR-1 Registration Eligibility?

To be eligible for CSR 1 registration in India, an NGO must adhere to the following criteria :

• Be a registered Indian charity, non-profit organization, or a Section 8 company.
• Have an Indian bank account.
• Possess a valid PAN card.
• Submit annual financial statements.
• Comply with all other applicable laws and regulations.

What is CSR-1 Registration Rules?

Several laws in India are related to CSR 1 registration. These include 

• The Companies Act, 2013: This act mandates that all registered companies in India comply with CSR provisions. Form CSR 1 is required to be filed according to Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 and Rule 4 (1) and (2) of the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014. As per Notification issued by Ministry of Corporate Affairs dated 22nd January 2021, from April 1, 2021 CSR Funding will be released only to those NGOs, that are registered with MCA by filing Form CSR 1.
• The Income Tax Act, 1961: Tax-exempt organizations must disclose their income and expenditures under this act.
• The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010: This law regulates the acceptance and utilization of foreign contributions by Indian NGOs.
• The Indian Trusts Act, 1882: This act governs the registration and regulation of trusts in India. Trusts registered under this act are eligible to receive foreign contributions.

What is CSR-1 Registration Applicability?

NGOs that want to receive CSR funding are required to file Form CSR 1 on MCA portal electronically. E form for CSR 1 registration is applicable for following types of NGOs:

• Company established under Section 8 or registered Trust or registered Society established by the Central Government or State Government
• Registered public trust,  
• Registered society,  
• Entity established under an Act of Parliament or State Legislature.

CSR 1 Registration Prerequisites

The process for registering for CSR-1 in India involves a few steps:

• The NGO must  be registered with the Registrar of Companies .
• After registration with the ROC, it can apply for CSR 1 registration with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

What is CSR-1 Registration Documents?

Following documents are mandatory for CSR 1 Registration

• Registration Certificate Of NGO, Trust or Society
• PAN of NGO
• Valid Email address of the NGO.
• Details of Directors/ Board of Trustees/ Chairman/ CEO/ Secretary/ Authorized
• Representatives of the entity
• Digital Signature of Authorized Person
• Memorandum and Articles of Association/Trust Deed/Society Bye-Laws
• Audited Financial Statements for the previous three years, certified by a chartered or cost accountant
• Annual Reports: These include the NGO's annual report for the previous year detailing activities, financial position, achievements etc.

What is CSR-1 Registration Process?

If NGOs want to receive CSR funding, then it is required to file Form CSR 1 on the MCA portal electronically. At Apka Tax we provide comprehensive assistance in registering for CSR 1. Following is the process for registration

• Form CSR-1 needs to be downloaded from MCA portal and the required details need to be filled. 
• A valid E-mail id of the entity must be entered & it should be verified by OTP (One Time Password).
• Details of Directors/ Board of Trustees/ Chairman/ CEO/ Secretary/ Authorized Representatives of the entity must be entered
• After filling all the required details and attaching mandatory documents, we need to click on Check Form button.
• After check form, we need to attach DSC of Authorized Signatory and the form must be certified by a Chartered accountant or Company secretary.
• After attaching DSC, we need to click on the Prescrutiny button.
• After prescrutiny, Sent OTP tab has been enabled and we need to send OTP on Email id & verify the same.
• After OTP validation, we need to upload the form on MCA portal.
• The Form will be processed on STP (Straight Through Process) mode
• After uploading the form, we will receive an approval letter containing CSR number. 

What are the Benefits of CSR-1 Registration?

Getting your NGO registered for CSR 1 has many benefits, some of them are elaborated below: 

• One-Stop Resource Hub: CSR-1 acts as a centralized platform for NGOs, providing a wealth of information and resources. 
• Comprehensive NGO Database: CSR 1 hosts a comprehensive database of registered NGOs. This resource helps both NGOs and corporations easily find potential partners for CSR initiatives.
• Information on CSR Tenders and Projects: The CSR 1 registration further insights on upcoming CSR tenders and projects. This information is invaluable for NGOs seeking opportunities to engage with corporations in meaningful projects.
• Training and Capacity Building: NGOs can access training and capacity-building programs to enhance their skills and capabilities in running effective CSR projects.
• Access to Exclusive Research Reports: Members gain access to exclusive research reports. These reports provide insights and data that can inform and strengthen an NGO's CSR strategy.
• Networking Opportunities: CSR 1 facilitates networking opportunities with other NGOs working in similar fields. 
• Discounts on CSR-Related Products and Services: Members can take advantage of discounts on CSR-related products and services partner organizations offer. This leads to cost savings resulting in efficient project implementation.
• Enhanced Public Image and Goodwill: Registering with CSR 1 can significantly boost the public image of NGOs. It demonstrates a commitment to transparency and compliance with CSR regulations. NGOs are more likely to be perceived as trustworthy and responsible in public eye. 
• Improved Access to Corporate Funding: By registering with CSR 1 and professing compliance with CSR regulations, NGOs can easily secure funding from corporations. Corporations are more likely to engage with NGOs listed on the portal, making it easier for NGOs to access essential financial support for their social initiatives. 

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