Sports Ministry Cautions NSFs on Logo Use

The Government has directed National Sports Federations (NSFs) to immediately cease the unauthorised use of the State Emblem and the logos or insignia of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The directions follow instances in which certain NSFs used official government logos and emblems on their letterheads, websites, visiting cards, and other communication materials, creating the impression that they are a direct part of the Government or SAI. The Ministry’s press release dated January 28, 2026, clarifies that such usage is unauthorised and contrary to the National Sports Development Code of India, 2011.

The Ministry’s directions are summarised below:

• Immediate discontinuation and removal: NSFs must stop using the State Emblem and the logos or insignia of the Ministry and SAI with immediate effect. They are also required to remove such logos from all physical and digital platforms and ensure that their affiliation with the Government or SAI is not misrepresented in any manner.
• Clarification for recognised NSFs: While NSFs may be recognised by the Government and eligible for financial or other assistance, such recognition or support does not entitle them to use the name, emblem, or logos of the Government of India, the Ministry, or SAI on official stationery or digital platforms. Recognised NSFs may, however, make a textual reference to their recognition, without using official logos or insignia.
• Limited permissible use: Government and SAI logos may be used strictly for event-specific publicity materials, such as banners, backdrops, advertisements, signage, or mementos, only where financial assistance has been provided or formal recognition extended, and in accordance with prescribed guidelines.
• Responsibility for compliance: The Presidents and Secretaries General of NSFs must ensure compliance not only at the national level but also by their affiliated State and Union Territory units.
• Consequences of non-compliance: Failure to comply may result in appropriate action, including suspension of recognition or withdrawal of financial assistance.