Yes, clubs can be registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or the applicable State Societies Registration Act in India. This is a common and legally accepted method to grant clubs a formal legal identity and operational legitimacy.

1. Legal Basis for Registration

• The Societies Registration Act, 1860 allows registration of societies formed for promotion of literature, science, fine arts, or any charitable or useful purpose.
• Clubs that promote sports, recreation, culture, or social welfare fall within this scope.
• Many well-known recreational and social clubs across India are registered as societies under this Act.

2. Benefits of Registering a Club as a Society

• Provides a separate legal identity to the club distinct from its members
• Enables the club to own property, open bank accounts, and enter into legal contracts
• Ensures legal protection for the club’s assets and members
• Makes the club eligible for government grants, licenses, and exemptions
• Facilitates dispute resolution, elections, and governance as per documented bye-laws

3. Requirements for Registration

• Minimum 7 members (or more, depending on state laws)
• Preparation of Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Rules/Bye-laws
• Submission of identity/address proof of members, address of the club, and objectives of the club
• Payment of prescribed registration fee
• Filing of application with the Registrar of Societies in the state where the club operates

4. Post-Registration Obligations

• Maintain accounts, meeting minutes, and membership records
• Hold annual general meetings (AGM) and elections as per bye-laws
• Submit annual returns, audit reports, and list of governing body members to the Registrar
• Ensure compliance with any applicable state-specific rules and tax obligations

5. Alternative Option

• Clubs can also be registered as Section 8 Companies under the Companies Act, 2013, for a more corporate and tightly regulated structure
• Trust registration is less common and more suitable for charitable or religious bodies

Conclusion
Clubs focused on social, cultural, sports, or recreational activities can lawfully register under the Societies Registration Act, giving them a structured and legally compliant form of operation.