How to Obtain an ISBN in India
Whether you are an author or publisher, acquiring an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for your publication is essential. An ISBN is a unique 13-digit number assigned to a book for global recognition and tracking purposes. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the ISBN, its significance, the application process, and the advantages it offers.
ISBN registration process in India
To apply for an ISBN, follow these steps:
- Locate the official ISBN agency in India
- Prepare for the required documents
- Understand the Cost of ISBN in India
- Receive Final Approval for ISBN Allocation
1. The Official ISBN Agency in India
The official agency responsible for issuing ISBNs in India is the Raja Ram Mohan Roy National Agency. This agency plays a crucial role in facilitating the book publishing process in India. There is only one ISBN agency assigned to each country in the world by the ISBN International Organization.
2. Required Documents for Obtaining an ISBN
Ensure you have the necessary documents ready, including details about the book title, author information, edition, and print format. You will have to set up an account at the ISBN agency website.
There are two types of accounts. One for self publisher called "Author" account. And the other account is for the registered business "Book Publisher."
To create a book publisher account, your business has to be registered in India with a GST number.
To create an author account, you need to provide ID proof and address proof documents issued by the government. ID proof can be your Aadhaar card, passport, PAN card, etc. For address proof, you can provide a rent agreement, an electric bill, etc.
Once you have submitted all the documents, you will have to wait at least 7 days or more, depending on the demand. After your account is approved, you will receive login information.
3. Cost of Registration
While registering for an ISBN is free in India, there are limitations put in place by the agency to prevent abuse and maintain integrity.
4. Final Approval of the ISBN
As a self-publisher, you can obtain one ISBN at a time, and it will take 7+ days to obtain the ISBN allocation. Thereafter, you will have to visit the ISBN agency website again and fill out the necessary book information.
Once you have filled up all the necessary book information (metadata), then your ISBN will be ready for publishing. You will get an email notification for each action you take on the agency website, but there is no notification at the time of ISBN allocation, so you will have to check by yourself after 7 days.
As a registered business owner, and having a book publisher account with the ISBN agency will allow you to obtain ISBNs in bulk. There are two options for bulk ISBN allocation: 10 ISBNs and 100 ISBNs, available to only book publishers.
Readers, booksellers, and authors frequently rely on ISBNs to identify and locate specific books within a vast collection. ISBNs aid in tracking book sales and enhancing discoverability within the market.
With a clear understanding of the ISBN application process and its benefits, including enhanced discoverability, sales monitoring, and added credibility, you are well-equipped to navigate the world of Indian literacy by utilizing ISBNs effectively.
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