In a decisive move to protect official branding, India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has issued a stern directive to all recognized National Sports Federations (NSFs). The order mandates an immediate halt to the unauthorized use of state emblems, ministry logos, and those of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) on their materials.
The ministry highlighted a growing issue where several NSFs have been prominently displaying these official symbols on letterheads, websites, visiting cards, and other communication tools. This practice creates a misleading impression that these bodies are direct extensions of the government or SAI, which violates the National Sports Development Code of 2011.
While NSFs enjoy government recognition and access to funding and support, this does not grant them permission to incorporate official logos into their stationery or digital platforms. The ministry emphasized that recognition can only be mentioned textually, without any visual appropriation of symbols.
Limited use is permitted strictly under guidelines for event-specific promotional materials like banners, backdrops, ads, signage, or souvenirs—but only when financial aid or formal endorsement has been provided.
All NSFs must promptly remove unauthorized logos from physical and digital platforms and ensure no misrepresentation of their ties to the government or SAI. Presidents and secretaries are accountable not just at the national level but also for affiliated state and UT units.
Non-compliance risks severe repercussions, including recognition withdrawal and funding suspension, as per existing rules and laws. This crackdown underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its identity while supporting sports development.