A Section 8 Company in India is a special type of entity established for the promotion of commerce, art, science, sports, education, research, social welfare, religion, charity, protection of the environment, or any such other objective. It is governed by the Companies Act, 2013, specifically under Section 8. This type of company is similar to what is known as a non-profit organization (NPO) or non-governmental organization (NGO) in other countries. The main characteristic of a Section 8 Company is its intention to apply its profits (if any) or other income in promoting its objectives, and it is prohibited from paying any dividends to its members.