RNI Registration
Are you thinking about starting a newspaper or magazine publication in India? If so, you’ll need to obtain an RNI registration from the Registrar of the Newspapers. The RNI is a statutory body responsible for regulating the printing and publication of newspapers and magazines in India. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of RNI registration, the registration process, and the documents required. So, let’s dive in and learn more about RNI registration in India.
I. Introduction
Brief explanation of RNI Registration in India
RNI Registration is mandatory in India for any entity wishing to publish a newspaper, periodical, or printed publication. The Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI), controlled by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, maintains a Register of Newspapers, issues Certificates of Registration, verifies circulation claims, and performs other non-statutory functions. RNI Registration is required for any Indian or foreign entity entering the publishing sector in India and for regional newspapers, editorial publications, and magazines. The process involves verifying the title availability, submitting a proper declaration to the District Magistrate, and receiving authentication from the concerned authorities. The first issue of the publication must be brought out within 42 days of authentication for daily or weekly publications, and within 90 days for fortnightly or above publications. The publisher, printer, and place of publication should all file their respective declarations. RNI Registration provides protection for ownership, title, and copyright, as well as recognizing the registered company in the publishing sector. Required documents include title verification letter, authenticated declaration and agreement, and the first issue of the publication.
II. Basic Requirements for RNI Registration
Address and printing press details
TheNI registration process requires the submission of various details related to the printing press and address of the publisher. These details are crucial for verification of the authenticity of the newspaper or magazine being registered. The head office of RNI is located in New Delhi and is a statutory body established by the Government of India. Regional offices of RNI are present in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. As part of the registration process, a declaration form needs to be filled by the applicant along with the first printed copy of the publication bearing Volume 1 and Issue 1. The imprint line is mandatory and must contain the name of the editor, publisher, printer, and address of the press. Additionally, some newspapers may also include the registration number, volume, and issue number of the publication. Separate declarations are necessary from both districts if the printing press and location of publishing are in different jurisdictions. Verification of title by the RNI is necessary before the first issue can be released. In summary, the details related to the printing press and address details are crucial for verification and authentication of registration under the RNI.
Display of title on cover page and all pages
One of the basic requirements for RNI registration is the display of the title on the cover page and all pages. This means that the title of the newspaper should be prominently displayed, providing a clear indication of the publication. A newspaper should also have an imprint line containing the address of the place of publication and the name and address of the printing press. These details are essential for the Registrar of Newspapers to verify the authenticity of the newspaper. If the printer and publisher are different people, then a separate declaration must be submitted. The RNI registration ensures that the newspaper is credible and authentic to the readers. The title verification process by RNI is an important step towards protecting the ownership and title of the newspaper. By obtaining RNI registration, publishers can protect their newspapers against false third-party claims and any copyright issues. The display of the title on every page signifies the authenticity of the publication and an indication of its compliance with the Press and Registration of Books Act.
III. Publishers Who require RNI Registration
Indian and foreign entities entering into publishing sector in India
With the increasing demand for information, India’s publishing sector has become a profitable industry. Indian and foreign entities have been eyeing this opportunity, which has led to a surge in the number of publishing houses in India. Foreign direct investment has contributed significantly towards the development and growth of the publishing sector. However, it is important to note that registration with RNI is mandatory for any foreign or Indian entity that seeks to enter the publishing sector in India. The registration process is seamless, but it is advisable to consult with a third-party consultant to make the process easier and faster. The Registrar of Newspapers for India has regional offices in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, which are responsible for verifying circulation claims and other non-statutory functions. It is crucial to secure RNI registration in India as soon as possible for every newspaper, circular, magazine, or foreign publication to avoid any legal hassles. Overall, the publishing sector in India offers ample opportunities for Indian and foreign entities to invest and grow their business, while providing people with accurate and timely information.
Regional newspapers
Regional newspapers play a vital role in the media industry, and RNI registration is a must for their entry into the publishing sector in India. Every regional newspaper requires RNI Registration to gain recognition in the industry. RNI is responsible for collecting and maintaining the Register of Newspapers, verifying circulation claims, issuing the Certificate of Registration, and other non-statutory functions. Regional newspapers in India can also take advantage of having RNI Registration. It helps in securing recognition, protection of title, protection against copyright issues, and offers the necessary protection to the ownership and title. The RNI registration process requires documents such as district magistrate validation, affidavit, copy of the first issue of the newspaper publication brought, printer agreement, etc. Moreover, the idea of having a regional newspaper with RNI Registration serves a social responsibility of providing local news in the regional language, showcasing the culture of the area, and connecting with the community. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the importance of RNI Registration for regional newspapers in India.
Any form of editorial and magazine publication
In India, Any form of editorial and magazine publication requires an RNI Registration. This means that all publishers who wish to bring out a newspaper or magazine in India have to comply with the Press and Registration of Books Act and the rules made thereunder. The RNI Registration is mandatory for any Indian or foreign entity that enters the publishing sector in India. This applies to all regional newspapers, any form of editorial, or magazine publication.
The RNI Registration provides publishers with protection of their ownership and title, which is essential in the publishing sector. This registration also secures some form of recognition for the registered company or entity in the business of newspaper and publication in India. Additionally, this form of registration protects publishers against any false third-party claims and any copyright issues.
To obtain RNI Registration for editorial and magazine publication, the publisher is required to submit documents related to the district magistrate/ additional district magistrate, printer agreement, certificate of incorporation or memorandum of association, partnership deed, and board resolution, among others. After obtaining the title verification letter from the RNI, the publisher is required to present it to the authority concerned along with a properly filled declaration form/ authentication. Within 42 or 90 days of authentication, the publisher must bring out the first issue of the publication adhering to the guidelines under the PRB Act 1867.
V. Responsibilities of RNI
Compilation and maintenance of Register of Newspapers
The Office of the Registrar of the Newspapers for India (RNI) plays a crucial role in regulating and monitoring the printing and publication of newspapers in India. One of its significant functions is the compilation and maintenance of a Register of Newspapers. This register contains all the particulars about the published newspapers and periodicals in India. It ensures that every publication, whether Indian or imported, is registered with the RNI. By maintaining this register, RNI is able to monitor the circulation claims furnished by the publishers in their Annual Statements, and verify whether newspapers are being published in accordance with the provisions of PRB Act 1867 and the rules made thereunder. RNI also issues a Certificate of Registration to the newspapers that have fulfilled the requisite conditions. The office is further entrusted with the responsibility of informing intending publishers about the availability of titles for filing a declaration. It plays a crucial role in assessing and certifying the essential need and requirement of newspaper establishments to import and allied materials. Overall, RNI’s functions ensure a streamlined publishing sector that is compliant with legal procedures and regulations.
Issuing Certificate of Registration to newspapers
One of the key responsibilities of the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI) is to issue Certificate of Registration to newspapers. Once a newspaper has obtained title verification and authentication of declaration, the publisher needs to submit a copy of the title verification letter, declaration form, written agreement between owner of periodical, and the first issue of the newspaper to the RNI to finalize the registration process.
The RNI maintains a Register of Newspapers and verifies circulation claims and other non-statutory functions. It is mandatory for anyone planning to start a newspaper, magazine, or journal, to seek prior approval from the RNI. The government controls and frames rules for the RNI under the Press and Registration of Books Act 1867 (PRB).
After the RNI has received the application for verification of the title, a letter of title verification is issued to notify the District Magistrate and the applicant of title availability. The publisher needs to file a declaration with the District Magistrate to start publishing the newspaper. The first issue of the newspaper should be brought out within 42 or 90 days of authentication, depending on the periodicity. The issuing of the Certificate of Registration denotes the final step in the registration process, and paves the way for the newspaper to start operations.
Verifying circulation claims and other non-statutory functions
Another important function of the RNI is verifying circulation claims and other non-statutory functions. With the rise of digital platforms, circulation claims have become even more significant. The RNI ensures that the stated circulation figures are authentic and can be backed up by facts, reducing the possibility of fraudulent claims. This provides a level playing field for publishers to compete in the market. In addition, the RNI carries out other non-statutory functions such as intimation to District Magistrates about the availability of titles for aspiring publishers to file declaration. It also ensures that newspapers are published in accordance with the provisions of the Press and Registration of Books Act 1867 and rules made thereunder. RNI Registration provides protection of the title and ownership, making it an essential requirement for any Indian or foreign entity entering into the publishing sector in India. The registration process mandates the submission of required documents for final registration and bringing out the first issue within 42 or 90 days of authentication.
VII. Process of RNI Registration
Verification of title
One of the crucial steps in the RNI registration process is the verification of the title. The Registrar of Newspapers in India (RNI) is responsible for ensuring that the titles of newspapers and magazines are unique and not already in use by other publications. This avoids confusion and duplication of titles. To verify the title, the RNI requires applicants to submit a proposal with the proposed title. The RNI will then conduct a search to see if the title is already registered or not. Using their database, users can search for registered titles or check the status of new title applications.
If there are no conflicts with the proposed title, the RNI will issue a certificate of title registration. This certificate ensures that the title belongs to the applicant and gives them exclusive rights to use that title. For further verification, the RNI will also verify the claims of circulation and ensure that the content adheres to the guidelines set forth by the Press and Books Registration Act 1867. Overall, the verification of the title is an essential step in the RNI registration process and ensures that publications have a unique identity.
Declaration filing and authentication
Declaration filing and authentication is a crucial step in the process of RNI registration for newspapers and periodicals in India. The first and foremost requirement before starting to publish a newspaper is verifying the availability of the title via submission of an application for title verification to the concerned District Magistrate. A letter of title verification is subsequently issued by the RNI, after which, a declaration must be filed by the publisher with the DM to begin publishing the newspaper. In an event where the publisher and printer are not the same individuals, separate declarations from both are required. Additionally, in the case of bilingual or multilingual publications, separate declarations from both publication and printing press are required. The first issue of the newspaper should be published within 42 or 90 days of authentication of declaration, depending on the periodicity of the publication. The publication should only consist of news, views, articles, etc. Similarly, there are a few crucial documents required for the final registration, including the title verification letter from RNI, declaration (Form-1) filed by the publisher and authenticated by DM, an agreement between the owner of the periodical, and a copy of the first issue with information such as printed title, page numbers, full date of publication, and more.
Bringing out first issue within 42 or 90 days of authentication
One of the requirements for RNI registration is bringing out the first issue of the publication within a specific time frame. If the periodicity of the publication is daily or weekly, the first issue should be published within 42 days of authentication of affirmation. For other periodicities, the first issue should be published within 90 days of authentication. It is important to note that if the place of publication and printing press are in different districts, the date of verification of the place of the magazine declaration submitted by the author is considered for calculating the 42/90 days for the start of the initial issue. In case of any delay in publishing the first issue, a modified declaration must be filed. It is imperative to comply with this requirement as it shows the commitment of the publisher to the publication and helps in building trust with the readers. Following this requirement will help establish a stable readership and set the publication on a path of success.
Submission of required documents for final registration
After completing all the necessary steps for RNI registration, it’s time to submit the required documents for final registration. The documents required for final registration include a copy of the title verification, a print copy of the first issue of the newspaper, and a “No Foreign Tie-up” affidavit, which should be duly attested by a notary. The first issue of the newspaper should be brought within 45 days from the date of authentication if the periodicity of the newspaper is daily or weekly, and within 90 days in the case of other periodicals.
In addition, an annual statement in Form II needs to be submitted on or before the last day of May every year. If there is any change in the information submitted earlier, such as the publisher printer owner(s), or periodicity of the newspaper printing press, a fresh declaration needs to be submitted by the printer or publisher. It is mandatory to ensure that all formalities are followed after registration with the RNI.
Furthermore, to start your own magazine rather than a newspaper, you need to follow the same steps as listed above because you would first need to get its title verified and then registered with the RNI before publishing its first issue. To check the RNI registration status, you can visit the RNI’s website and enter the Title code to see the application status. Overall, it is crucial to submit the required documents to ensure final registration and to continue publishing your newspaper or periodical.
VIII. Documents Required for RNI Registration in India
1. A letter requesting registration, signed by the publisher or the editor or the owner of the newspaper or the periodical, as the case may be.
2. The first copy of the newspaper or the periodical in which a declaration has been made as required by rule 5 (1) of the Registration of Newspapers (Central) Rules, 1956.
3. A declaration as to the place of printing and publication as required by rule 5 (1) of the Registration of Newspapers (Central) Rules, 1956.
4. A notarized affidavit in the prescribed format affirming the details of ownership and publication.
5. A copy of the PAN (Permanent Account Number) card of the publishing company or individual.
6. A copy of the residential proof of the owner or the editor or the publisher, as the case may be. This could include a voter ID, passport, driving license or Aadhaar card.
7. A copy of the press freedom card issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) of the Government of India, if any.
IX. Advantages of RNI Registration in India
1. Legal recognition and protection of the newspaper or periodical.
2. Access to government advertising and subsidies.
3. Credibility and authenticity of the publication.
4. Eligibility to claim lower postal rates.
X. Disadvantages of RNI Registration in India
1. Increased compliance requirements and costs.
2. Limited editorial freedom, as publications must remain within the guidelines set by the government in the Printing Presses and Newspaper (Declaration Of Books And Publication) Act, 1973.
3. Risk of suspension or cancellation of registration in case of any violation of rules and regulations.
XI. Process of Getting RNI Registration in India
1. Submit the required documents to the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI).
2. RNI will verify the documents and conduct a physical inspection of the printing press and publishing office.
3. Upon approval, the RNI will issue a registration certificate.
XII. Types of RNI Registration in India
1. Registration for newspapers.
2. Registration for periodicals.
XIII. Frequently Asked Questions about RNI Registration in India
1. What is RNI Registration?
Ans: RNI registration is the process of legally registering a newspaper or periodical with the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI).
2. Is RNI Registration mandatory in India?
Ans: No, RNI registration is not mandatory in India. However, it is advisable for publishers to register their publications for the benefits and legal protection it provides.
3. How long does it take to get RNI registration?
Ans: The process of RNI registration usually takes around 2-3 months, depending on the completion of the required documents and the RNI inspection process.