The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has decided to make the online RNI registration process easier by introducing an online portal. This portal will allow applicants to file their application and complete the entire registration process online.
The new portal will replace the existing process of applying for a publication certificate which allows newspapers and periodical publications to be registered under the Press & Registration of Books Act, 1867 (PRB Act). The new process will also replace the current practice of submitting copies of every edition of newspapers to the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI).
The RNI is currently required to maintain a record of all the publications in India including their names, dates and places of publishing, editors, owners, etc. In addition, it has been entrusted with the responsibility to ensure compliance with the law mentioned above.
Why do I need an RNI Certificate?
Newspapers are governed by the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867. Any person who wishes to print and publish a newspaper in India must seek registration under this law. The RNI is the central authority that registers such newspapers. The purpose of this statutory body is to provide a complete picture of the media in India. The RNI was set up to keep a record of the number of newspapers being published, their circulation, names and addresses of owners and editors, along with other information.
The process of applying for a new publication registration is given below:
- Visit the RNI website – rni.nic.in
- Register yourself on the site by creating a username and password (skip this step if you are already registered on the RNI site)
- Click on Online Submission
- Select ‘Newspaper’ from the dropdown box
- Fill in all the details, uploading scanned copies of supporting documents such as certificate of incorporation, declaration form and affidavit along with the application form.
- For international editions, fill in details in form IX and upload annexures along with the application form
- The process of registering a newspaper with the RNI involves setting up the publication, electronically filling out an application, and submitting documents to support the application. The process is outlined below:
- Publication details will be published on the RNI website
- Claim your RNI Registration Certificate
Functions and Responsibilities of the RNI in India
The RNI is responsible for the registration and maintenance of records. The functions and responsibilities of the RNI are as follows:
- Ensuring the publication of newspapers only by those who are registered with it and have obtained a certificate to that effect;
- Maintaining a record of the titles of all newspapers published in the country
- Maintaining a record of changes relating to ownership, management, etc., of newspapers;
- Collecting statistics in respect of newspapers;
- Performing such other functions as may be assigned to it by or under any law.
Documents Required for RNI Registration in India
The following documents are required for obtaining RNI certificate:
- Application form filled and signed by the proprietor/partner/director/authorized signatory of the company as per Form IV prescribed by RNI.
- Affidavit in Form V prescribed by RNI.
- Copy of PAN card, Aadhar card and voter ID card of the publisher/editor.
- Memorandum & Articles of Association or Partnership Deed or any other proof of existence of business entity.
- Copy of the Title Verification Letter
- Declaration duly authenticated by authority concerned i.e, (DM/DC/SDM/DCP/JCP/CMM etc.)
- Covering letter describing details about publication along with sample copy of matter to be published with name and address of printer and publisher.
- Original or attested signed copy of the printer agreement, as well as an authenticated copy of the printing press.
- In case of change of name or place where matter is printed, an affidavit in Form VI prescribed by RNI is required.
Process of obtaining the RNI registration in India
- The first level Title Level RNI Registration
- The second level RNI issue Registration
