The most important identifiers include the ISBN (International Standard Book Number) and the ASIC (Author’s Script Identification Code), among others.

How to Get an ISBN, ASIC, and Other Necessary Registrations for Your Book in India

Publishing a book in India requires certain registrations and approvals to ensure that your book is properly cataloged and recognized in the publishing world. These identifiers are crucial for tracking, selling, and protecting your book in both digital and physical formats.

This guide explains the steps to acquire an ISBN, ASIC, and other essential registrations for your book in India.

1. What is an ISBN?

The ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit number that identifies a specific book, edition, or format. It helps booksellers, distributors, and libraries to catalog and manage books. Every version of a book (e.g., hardcover, paperback, e-book) gets its own ISBN.

In India, ISBNs are issued by the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN, which operates under the Ministry of Education.

Steps to Get an ISBN in India:

a) Register on the ISBN Website

1. Visit the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN website: isbn.gov.in.
2. Create an account by filling out the registration form. This will include your personal details as an author or publisher.
3. After submitting the form, you’ll receive an activation link via email. Click the link to activate your account.

b) Submit ISBN Application

Once your account is activated, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your account on the ISBN portal.
2. Select the option to apply for an ISBN.
3. You will be required to upload certain documents:

• Copy of the book’s manuscript or its title and introduction (for unpublished works).
• Proof of identity such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport.
• Cover design or synopsis (if available).
• Publisher information (if applicable).

1. Choose how many ISBNs you need (for multiple editions or future works).
2. Submit the application and wait for approval. The approval process usually takes 15-20 business days.

Once approved, you will receive the ISBN digitally, which you can include in your book.

2. What is an ASIC?

The ASIC (Author’s Script Identification Code) is another important registration specific to India, which protects your work from plagiarism and unauthorized use. It serves as a digital fingerprint for your manuscript, allowing you to prove ownership of your intellectual property.

Steps to Get an ASIC in India:

a) Identify the Issuing Authority

In India, the Copyright Office under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for issuing the ASIC. You can apply for an ASIC through their online copyright registration portal.

b) Complete the Application Process

1. Visit the Copyright Office India website: copyright.gov.in.
2. Register an account by filling in your author information.
3. Once registered, log in and click on “Apply for ASIC.”
4. Fill in the required details about your manuscript, including the title, author name, and genre.
5. Upload your manuscript in a protected format (PDF or DOC).
6. Pay the required fee for registration.
7. After submission, the copyright office will process your application and issue an ASIC code. You’ll receive the confirmation by email.

The ASIC helps to protect your script and establish authorship in any future disputes.

3. Copyright Registration in India

While ASIC provides protection for your manuscript, copyright registration is the formal legal process to protect your intellectual property under the Copyright Act of 1957 in India. Once registered, your work is protected from unauthorized reproduction or distribution.

Steps to Register Copyright in India:

1. Visit the Copyright Office Website: Go to the official copyright registration portal.
2. Create an Account: If you don’t already have an account, you need to register by providing your personal information.
3. Fill the Copyright Application:

• Choose the correct form (Form XIV) based on the type of work (e.g., literary, artistic, musical).
• Submit information about the work, including title, author, and publisher details.

1. Attach Necessary Documents:

• Proof of your identity.
• A copy of the manuscript (for literary works).
• Publishing contract or proof of ownership (if applicable).

1. Pay the Registration Fee: Fees vary depending on the type of work being registered. Payment can be made through the online portal.
2. Submit the Application: After successful submission, you will receive an acknowledgment. The Copyright Office will examine the application, and if no objections are raised, you’ll receive your copyright registration certificate within a few months.

4. Barcodes and QR Codes for Your Book

A barcode is essential if you want to sell your book in retail stores. The barcode is linked to your book’s ISBN, and it helps stores track your book’s inventory.

How to Get a Barcode for Your Book:

1. Once you receive your ISBN, you can generate a barcode. Many online tools are available for free ISBN barcode generation.
2. Alternatively, you can request a barcode through professional book printers or publishing services.

Adding QR Codes to Your Book

Some authors include QR codes in their books to provide readers with links to additional content, websites, or social media. QR codes can easily be generated using free online tools. You can include a QR code on your book cover or inside to engage readers digitally.

5. Getting a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number)

If you plan to sell your book, especially in print, having a GSTIN is necessary for paying taxes on book sales. Here’s how to apply:

1. Register on the GST Portal: Visit the GST registration website and create an account.
2. Fill the GST Application: Provide your personal and business information, such as your PAN card, address, and bank details.
3. Submit Proofs: You will need proof of identity and address, such as Aadhaar or passport, and your book’s publishing details.
4. Receive Your GSTIN: Once approved, you’ll receive your Goods and Services Tax Identification Number for your business.

6. Conclusion

Securing the necessary registrations for your book in India, including an ISBN, ASIC, and copyright, is essential for protecting your work and making it available to a wide audience. These identifiers allow you to sell your book through online platforms and bookstores while safeguarding your intellectual property.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to officially publishing and protecting your book in India.