Online News Portal Registration

1. Sign up: As the owner, sign up on the Press Sewa Portal and provide the required details.
2. Log in: Log in using the credentials you created.
3. Select periodicals: Choose the periodicals you own from the list.
4. Fill out application: Click the Registration tab and fill out the application.
5. Add publisher: Provide the publisher’s contact details, such as their email ID and mobile number.
6. Submit: Submit the online registration form.

Here are some other things to know about registering a news portal in India:

• The publisher must apply for registration within 180 days of the title verification.
• If the publisher doesn’t apply within the time limit, the title will be available for other applicants.
• The publisher should get the title verified after applying online.
• The publisher and printer need to provide separate declarations if they are different people.
• The publisher and printer also need to provide separate declarations if the place of publication and printing press are in different districts.
• The publisher should publish the first issue of the volume within 42 days if the publication is daily or weekly. If the publication is fortnightly or above, the publisher should publish the first issue within 90 days.

• RNI registration is required: The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867 and the Registration of Newspapers (Central) Rules, 1956 govern the printing and publishing of newspapers and periodicals in India. Registration with the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI) is a prerequisite to publish any newspaper or periodical in the country.
• RNI registration protects the title: RNI registration protects the title of a newspaper from being misused by others.
• RNI registration process: The RNI registration process includes:
  • Verifying the title
  • Authenticating the declaration
  • Publishing the first issue
  • Submitting documents to RNI for registration
• RNI website: You can log on to the RNI’s official website at www.rin.nic.in

To register an online news portal in India, you must navigate the process of obtaining registration from the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI). Here’s a comprehensive overview of the requirements and steps involved:

Importance of RNI Registration

RNI registration is crucial for several reasons:

• Legal Recognition: It provides legal acknowledgment to the online news portal, enhancing its credibility and distinguishing it from unauthorized sources.
• Protection of Rights: Registered portals are protected under the Indian Constitution, ensuring freedom of speech and expression.
• Trust Establishment: It builds trust among readers and stakeholders, affirming a commitment to ethical journalism.
• Advertising Opportunities: Registered portals may have better access to advertising and other business opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for RNI registration, an online news portal must:

• Be regularly updated with news content.
• Have a principal editor who is an Indian citizen.
• Comply with the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, and the Press Council Act, 1978.

Required Documents

The following documents are typically required for RNI registration:

• A duly filled application form.
• An affidavit from the owner/editor detailing the publication specifics.
• A consent letter from the principal editor.
• Proof of ownership of the domain name or URL.
• Copies of recent publications.
• For companies: Certificate of incorporation, Memorandum of Association, and Articles of Association.
• A no-objection certificate from the owner of the premises where the portal operates.

Application Process

1. Title Verification: Prepare five potential names for your news portal. Ensure that none have been used previously.
2. Document Submission: Gather all required documents including identity proofs like Aadhar card and passport-sized photographs.
3. Online Application: Visit the RNI official website (www.rni.nic.in) to fill out the application form. Follow the guidelines provided on the site carefully.
4. Submission: Submit your application along with all necessary documents to the Press Registrar, RNI.

Timeline and Fees

The registration process can take several weeks to months depending on verification procedures. There is also a fee associated with RNI registration, which varies; thus, checking with RNI for current fees is advisable.

Operating Without Registration

It is important to note that while RNI registration is beneficial, it is not mandatory for operating an online news portal initially. You can run a news portal without registering; however, if you wish to issue press cards or cover certain governmental events, registration may become necessary later on.

while RNI registration provides numerous advantages in terms of legality and credibility, starting an online news portal without it is permissible under Indian law.

Registering an Online News Portal in India

To register an online news portal in India, you primarily need to register with the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI). This is a crucial step as it provides official recognition to your publication.

Here’s a general outline of the process:

1. RNI Registration:

   • Visit the RNI Website: Go to the official website of the RNI.

     Check Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the latest guidelines and requirements for online news portals.

   • Prepare Necessary Documents: Gather the required documents, which typically include:
     • Proof of identity and address of the publisher
     • Details of the proposed publication (title, language, periodicity, etc.)
     • A declaration stating that the publication will adhere to journalistic ethics and the Press Council of India’s guidelines
     • Other relevant documents as specified by the RNI
   • Submit the Application: Submit the application form and required documents online through the RNI portal.

2. Additional Considerations:

   • Domain Name and Hosting: Register a domain name for your news portal and choose a reliable hosting provider.
   • Website Development: Design and develop your website, ensuring it complies with digital media guidelines and is user-friendly.
   • Content Creation: Create high-quality, original content that adheres to journalistic standards.
   • Legal and Ethical Compliance: Familiarize yourself with relevant media laws, copyright regulations, and ethical guidelines.
   • Digital Media Ethics Code: Adhere to the Digital Media Ethics Code of Practice, which outlines ethical standards for online journalism.

Important Note:

• RNI Registration: While RNI registration is essential for official recognition, it doesn’t directly regulate content.
• Content Regulation: Content regulation in India is primarily governed by various laws, including the Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, the Information Technology Act, and the Indian Penal Code.
• Self-Regulation: Adherence to journalistic ethics and industry best practices is crucial for maintaining credibility and avoiding legal issues.

For specific guidance and the latest information, it’s recommended to consult with a legal expert or media law professional.

By following these steps and adhering to legal and ethical guidelines, you can successfully register and operate an online news portal in India.