Indian sports ministry tells NSFs to discontinue 'unauthorised use' of State Emblem and logos

NEW DELHI: The Sports Ministry on Wednesday directed the national federations to desist from "unauthorised use" of the State Emblem and the insignia of the ministry as well as the Sports Authority of India (SAI) on their stationary and digital platforms, warning that violations would lead to suspension of recognition.

It is not unusual to find the logos of SAI and the ministry on the websites of national federations, mostly at the bottom of the home page to indicate affiliation. Even their stationary is adorned with these logos and the ministry's insignia features the State Emblem.

"It was observed that certain NSFs are using official government logos and emblems on their letterheads, websites, visiting cards, and other communication materials, thereby creating an incorrect impression of being a direct part of the Government of India or SAI.

"Such usage is unauthorised and contrary to the provisions of the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011," the ministry stated.

The ministry has warned that any violation of these instructions will be viewed seriously and may result in appropriate action under existing guidelines and applicable laws, "including suspension of recognition or stoppage of financial assistance."

India's State Emblem is an adaptation from the Sarnath Lion Capital of Mauryan Emperor Ashoka which is preserved in the Sarnath Museum.

The profile of the Lion Capital shows three lions mounted on an abacus with a Dharma Chakra in the centre, a bull on the right and a galloping horse on the left, and outlines of Dharma Chakras on the extreme right and left.

As per the existing law governing its usage, only the central government can authorise its usage in cases where official affiliation is implied.

The ministry has clarified that while NSFs are recognised by the government and are eligible for financial assistance, it does not entitle them to use the name, emblem, or logos of the Government of India, the ministry, or SAI.

"NSFs may only make a textual reference to their recognition by the ministry, without using official logos or insignia," the government asserted.

The directive to NSFs states that the government and SAI logos may be used strictly for "event-specific publicity materials, such as banners, backdrops, advertisements, signage, or mementos".

This too is permitted only in cases where financial assistance has been provided or formal recognition has been extended to the event.

"...all NSFs have also been directed to immediately remove unauthorised logos from physical and digital platforms and ensure that their affiliation with the Government of India or SAI is not misrepresented in any manner."

The Presidents and Secretaries General of NSFs have been instructed to ensure compliance not only at the national level but also by their affiliated state and union territory units.

Get the latest WPL 2026 updates including WPL teams, full WPL 2026 schedule, and live scores for Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Delhi Capitals. Also check the latest WPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.