RNI Registration

What is RNI?
RNI stands for Registrar of Newspapers for India.
It is a government authority under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India.

Purpose of RNI
RNI regulates and maintains records of:

· Newspapers

· Magazines

· Periodicals
published in India.

If you want to publish a newspaper or magazine, RNI registration is mandatory.

Needs RNI

You need RNI registration if you are starting:

· A newspaper (daily, weekly, etc.)

· A magazine (monthly, quarterly, etc.)

· Any printed periodical with news or information

👉 Not required for:

· Blogs

· Websites only

· Books (non-periodical)

Documents Required

 Aadhaar / ID proof of publisher

 Address proof

 Printing press agreement

 Title verification letter

 Declaration forms

 First issue copy

Apply for RNI

Step 1: Title Verification

Apply online on the RNI portal
Choose a unique title name
Select language, state, and periodicity
RNI checks if the title already exists
⏳ Time: 2–8 weeks
✔ Once approved, the title is reserved

Step 2: Declaration Before DM/SDM

Publisher & printer submit a declaration
Done before the District Magistrate (DM) / SDM
Confirms details like:
Publisher name
Printer
Place of publication
Printing press
Step 3: First Issue Publication

Publish the first issue within:
42 days (if same district)
90 days (if different district)
Must match details approved by RNI
Step 4: Submission to RNI

Send to RNI:

Copy of first issue
Authenticated declaration
Printing press certificate
Step 5: RNI Registration Certificate

RNI verifies documents
Issues RNI Registration Number
Your publication is now officially registered 🎉
⏳ Time: 2–3 months

Benefits

✔ Legal recognition
✔ Title protection
✔ Government advertising eligibility
✔ Postal and newsprint benefits
✔ Builds credibility

Types of Publication

 Daily / Weekly / Fortnightly Newspapers

 Monthly / Quarterly Magazines

 Journals

 Newsletters (if printed regularly)

Summary (Quick View)

 Authority: Registrar of Newspapers for India

 Mandatory for: Print newspapers & magazines

 Process Time: ~3–6 months

 Cost: Mostly government fees are minimal (professional fees extra if hired)

FAQ

Who needs RNI registration?

Anyone planning to publish a printed newspaper, magazine, journal, or periodical in India must register with RNI. Websites or blogs do not need RNI registration.
Is RNI registration permanent?

Yes, it is lifetime, but you must submit annual statements and report any changes in publisher, printer, or title.
Are there any fees for RNI registration?

Government fees are minimal. Professional assistance (if used) may have additional costs.
Can I register a digital-only publication?

No, RNI registration is only for printed newspapers or periodicals. Digital media follows separate guidelines.

RNI Registration