RNI Registration Process: Complete Guide and RNI Fees

Overview of RNI Registration

RNI refers to the Registrar of Newspapers for India. RNI Registration Process is essential for launching a newspaper, magazine, printing press or journal enterprise. The  Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867 regulates the publishing sector in India.

Currently, this industry is among the fastest-growing sectors. Every publication, whether daily, weekly, or monthly, must register with the Registrar of Newspapers for India.

RNI Registration Process is part of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The  Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867 requires this department to manage the RNI. It also mandates the creation of rules for the RNI. Before starting a newspaper, magazine, printing press, or similar business, it is necessary to obtain clearance from the RNI.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting oversees the Registrar of Newspapers for India. This office makes rules under the Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867. Consequently, anyone intending to start a newspaper, magazine, or journal must secure certification from the RNI

Who Need RNI Registration?

Anyone or any company that wants to publish newspapers, magazines, or journals needs a certification. This certification is important for Starting Up.

• Indian Newspaper 

To run a newspaper in India, a firm or organisation must first register with the RNI. Moreover, Regional newspapers also require the Certification.

• International Journal

To publish a newspaper in India, a foreign newspaper firm or organisation must first seek RNI Certification.

• Magazines 

All types of publications, in any language, must register with the Registrar of Newspapers in India.

• Printing Press

All printing presses in India are now required to have an RNI certificate.

What are the Documents Required for RNI Registration?

When applying for RNI , the following documents are required:

• Title Verification Copy:

Attested copy of title verification.

• Declaration of Start of Business: 

Duplicate of the declaration in the required format.

• Inaugural Edition: 

A copy of the publication’s first edition.

• Declaration of Non-International Partnership: 

Certified statement confirming no involvement in international partnerships.

• Contract Document: 

Agreement between the publisher and the printing press.

• Certificate of Incorporation:

If the applicant is a business entity or limited liability partner.

• Partnership Deed:

For LLPs or partnership firms.

• PAN Card:

For commercial entities, corporations, or firms.

• Board Resolution:

If applicable to the company.

• Proof of Identity and Address: 

For board members, proprietors, and collaborators.

Step-by-Step Guide to RNI Registration Process?

The RNI registration process under the Press Sewa portal includes the following steps:

1. Title Verification

 Objective: Ensure the proposed title is unique and avoid conflicts with existing titles.

Process: Submit an online application to the Press sewa portal with details including: 

• Newspaper's name, Proprietor's name
• Language of publication
•  Periodicity (daily, weekly, etc.)
• Suggested place of publication
• The title verification letter must be submitted online or to the relevant authority.

2. Authentication of Declaration

Objective: Validate the Certificate with appropriate authorities.

Process:

After obtaining the title verification letter from RNI, file a declaration (Form-I) with the DM or relevant authority.

If the printer and publisher are different, you need separate declarations from each one. For different districts, you need declarations from both the printing press and the publication locations.

3. Publication of the First Issue

Objective: Ensure timely publication of the first issue.

Process: 

Daily/Weekly Periodicity:- First issue must be published within 42 days of the declaration's validation.

Other Frequencies:- 

• First issue should be released within 90 days.
• Any delays in publication require an updated declaration.
• The publication must include news, articles, and opinions in the specified languages, as stated in the declaration.
  

What are the Benefits of RNI Registration?

Under the  Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867, the benefits of RNI include:

• Legal Validity

Approval Certificate grants legal recognition to newspapers and journals. Publications need to be registered to be seen as real and trustworthy.

• Protection of Intellectual Property

Certification establishes and protects the publisher's ownership rights, preventing unauthorized use or duplication of the publication's name, title, or content.

• Title Protection

RNI Certificate ensures protection of the publication's title, safeguarding it from misuse or duplication. This protection is essential in the competitive publishing industry.

• Security Against Third-Party Claims

Certification offers protection from false claims and disputes by third parties, including defenses against copyright issues.

• Mandatory Details for Inclusion

Publications must include specific details:

• Issue number
• Volume number
• Prominent title on the cover page
• Dateline
• Page numbering

What is the role of RNI?

The role and functions are mentioned below:

• Title Verification: Ensures that no two newspapers have the same or similar titles, preventing confusion.
• Enrolment of Newspapers and Magazine: Grants official Certification to newspapers, Magazine, and publications across India.
• Issue of Certificate: Provides a certificate of Approval that allows the publication to operate legally.
• Monitoring Circulation: Monitors the circulation of registered newspapers, magazines and journals .
• The publisher complies with the  Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867.
• Protection of Title Rights: Protects ownership of the title of the publication once it is registered.
• Guidance and Assistance: Offers guidance on various legal requirements and procedural steps for Certification and compliance.
• Dealing with Complaints: Handles disputes and complaints regarding titles, content, or circulation.
• Publishing Annual Reports: Publishes annual statistics and reports on the press and media industry in India.

RNI Registration Fees and Payment Details

The RNI Registration fees are listed below:

• Government Fees is zero.
• Title verification fee is Rs 1000
• Professional fees for certification range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000.

Why Choose PSR Compliance for RNI Registration?

 
STEP 1 : Connect with PSR Compliance

Reach out to us for expert assistance in RNI Registration. Our team will guide you through the entire process.

Email: Support@psrcompliance.com

Phone: +917065883416

STEP 2 : Understand the RNI Registration Process

We will explain the RNI Registration process, ensuring you understand every step required to register your publication successfully.

STEP 3: Get Assistance with RNI Fees

Our experts will help you with the RNI fees and ensure that your payment process is smooth and transparent.

STEP 4: Submit Your Application

Once everything is clear, we will assist you in submitting your application and required documents for RNI registration.

STEP 5: Receive Your RNI Certificate

After successful registration, we will ensure you receive your official RNI certificate, making your publication legitimate and recognized.

Start your RNI Registration today with PSR Compliance and make your publication official!

FAQ Section

Q1. How long does the RNI Registration Process take?

Answer: It usually takes 3-4 months, depending on the accuracy of the application and title verification.

Q2. What are the Consequences of Operating a Newspaper or Magazine without RNI?

Answer:You cannot run a newspaper without an Approval Certificate. Penalties, fines, and legal repercussions may result from it. 

Q3. What is RNI Title Registration?

Answer: RNI Title Registration is a process run by the Registrar of Newspapers for India. It makes sure that newspapers and magazines have their own special names, follow the law, and are officially recognized.

Q4. How to Check RNI Registration?

Answer: Visit the Press sewa official portal, and enter the newspaper's name or registration number to verify its status.

Q5. How to Apply RNI Registration Online?

Answer: Visit the Press sewa portal, fill out the form with your publication details, upload required documents, and submit. Follow any additional instructions provided for approval.

Q6. What documents are needed for the initial RNI registration?

Answer: To complete the RNI registration, the following documents are necessary:

•    Proof of identity

•    Proof of address

•    No Objection Certificate (if the publication is foreign)

•    A copy of any previous title, if applicable

•    A passport-sized photograph

Q7. What is RNI full form?

Answer: RNI stands for the Registrar of Newspapers for India.It is an office set up by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting under Section 19 of the Press & Registration of Books Act, 1867.

Q8. Who regulates the RNI?

Answer: Press and Books Registration Act of 1867 regulates the Start and publication of newspapers, magazines, and Journal. It designates the Registrar of Newspapers for India, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, as the regulatory authority.