In a significant technological upgrade aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has integrated the CSR portal with the registration status of Section 8 companies. This move allows companies and the public to verify, in real time, whether a non-profit entity is officially registered and eligible to act as an implementation partner under India’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework.

The integration is designed to streamline the process for companies seeking credible CSR collaborators by offering immediate access to registration details, compliance records, and CSR Registration Numbers of Section 8 firms. Entities that have completed their Form CSR-1 filings and obtained approval are now automatically visible on the CSR portal, eliminating the need for manual verification and documentation exchange.

Officials say the feature will significantly reduce the risks of engaging with non-compliant or unregistered partners, especially amid increasing scrutiny of CSR fund utilization. The linked data ensures that only authorized Section 8 companies—those meeting the legal and financial prerequisites under the Companies Act, 2013—are considered for CSR project execution.

The portal also features status updates on filings, fund utilization records, and areas of operation, enabling better due diligence and informed decision-making for corporates. In addition, government departments can now monitor CSR engagements more effectively, ensuring that grants and projects are aligned with national development priorities.

CSR consultants and legal experts have welcomed the integration as a timely and practical solution that enhances trust, accountability, and collaboration between the corporate and non-profit sectors. The upgraded system reinforces the government’s commitment to digital governance and positions Section 8 companies as transparent and verifiable partners in driving sustainable social change across India.