Centre directs sports federations to stop unauthorised use of government logos

New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports directed all recognised National Sports Federations to immediately stop the unauthorised use of government logos, warning that violations could invite action including suspension of recognition or withdrawal of financial assistance.

In an official directive, the ministry said it had found several federations using the State Emblem and the logos of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India on letterheads, websites, visiting cards, and other communication material. It said such use created a misleading impression that these bodies formed a direct part of the Government of India or SAI.

The ministry clarified that recognition by the government or eligibility for grants did not give federations the right to use official emblems or logos. It said such practices violated provisions of the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011.

According to the directive, federations may only make a textual reference to their recognition by the ministry. They must not display government names, emblems, or insignia on their official stationery or digital platforms.

Unauthorised use of logos may invite strict action

The ministry said federations could use government or SAI logos only for event-specific publicity. This would apply to banners, backdrops, advertisements, signage, or mementos, and only when the government had provided financial assistance or formal recognition for that event. Even then, federations must follow prescribed guidelines.

Further, the ministry instructed all federations to immediately remove unauthorised logos from both physical and digital platforms. It also asked them to ensure that they did not misrepresent their affiliation with the government or SAI in any manner.

The directive placed responsibility on the presidents and secretaries general of federations to ensure compliance. This obligation extends not only at the national level but also to affiliated State and Union Territory units.

The ministry cautioned that it would view any violation seriously. It said continued unauthorised use of logos could lead to action under existing rules and applicable laws, including suspension of recognition or stoppage of financial assistance.