Form CSR-1 is the registration filed with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) by any entity that wants to undertake CSR activities funded by companies. It was introduced by the Companies (CSR Policy) Amendment Rules, 2021 and applies to CSR projects taken up from 1 April 2021 onwards.
Why it matters
Without a CSR-1 registration an NGO cannot receive CSR funds from a company. On approval the MCA issues a CSR Registration Number, which the funding company quotes in its own CSR reporting — so corporates routinely ask for this number before releasing any funds.
Who can register
- A Section 8 company, a registered public trust, or a registered society
- Registered under section 332 and 354 of the Income Tax Act
- With an established track record of at least three years in similar activities
An entity established by the funding company itself, or by companies acting together, may register without the three-year track record.
What is usually required
- Registration certificate and PAN of the entity
- 332 and 354 registration certificates
- Details and DIN or PAN of the trustees, directors or office bearers
- A digital signature (DSC) of an authorised signatory
- Certification of the form by a practising Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary or Cost Accountant
How we help
We check eligibility, get the documentation in order, arrange the digital signature, file Form CSR-1 with the MCA and certify it — so the registration number comes through without avoidable queries. We also advise on the compliance and reporting expected once CSR funds start coming in.