State Emblem of India
The State Emblem of India is the official national emblem of the Government of India and symbolizes the authority of the Indian State. It is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, an ancient sculpture dating back to the Mauryan Empire, originally erected around 250 BCE at Sarnath, near Varanasi in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
Adopted on 26 January 1950, the same day India became a republic, the emblem reflects the nation’s cultural heritage, strength, and constitutional values.[1]
Origin and Historical Background
The emblem is based on the Lion Capital of Ashoka, a sandstone sculpture commissioned by Emperor Ashoka to mark the site of Buddha's first sermon at Sarnath. The original sculpture, which is now housed in the Sarnath Museum, is regarded as a masterpiece of Indian art from the Mauryan period.
The Lion Capital consists of:
- Four Asiatic lions standing back to back
- A cylindrical base (abacus) with relief carvings of animals
- An inverted bell-shaped lotus (not included in the emblem)
In 1950, the Indian government adapted the sculpture as the national emblem with some modifications, including the removal of the lotus base.
Symbolism and Design
The emblem as seen today includes:
- Three visible lions: Facing forward, representing power, courage, and confidence. The fourth lion, at the rear, is hidden from view.
- The abacus: Features four animals in high relief – a bull, horse, lion, and elephant, each symbolizing a cardinal direction and historical symbolism tied to the life of the Buddha.
- Ashoka Chakra: In the center of the abacus is a wheel with 24 spokes, known as the Dharma Chakra, representing justice, righteousness, and the eternal wheel of law.
Below the abacus, the national motto is inscribed:
- सत्यमेव जयते (Satyameva Jayate – "Truth Alone Triumphs")
– This is taken from the ancient Indian scripture, the Mundaka Upanishad. It is written in Devanagari script and reflects India's commitment to truth and moral values.[2]
Legal Status and Protection
The emblem is protected under the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005. This law prohibits:
- Unauthorized use of the emblem for personal, commercial, or unofficial purposes
- Use of imitation versions on products or advertisements
- Display of the emblem without government permission
Violation of this act can lead to legal penalties, including imprisonment and fines.[3]
Usage
The State Emblem of India is a mark of national authority and is used by the Union and State governments. Common official uses include:
- Government documents, seals, and stationery
- Passports, identity cards, and coins
- Indian currency notes (usually watermarked or printed)
- On buildings like Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament of India, and courts
- Diplomatic and constitutional matters
Only designated officers and institutions can legally display the emblem. Unauthorized individuals and organizations are restricted from using it in branding, packaging, or promotional materials.
Adoption and Constitutional Relevance
When the Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950, the emblem was formally adopted by the Indian Government as a representation of its sovereignty and national ideals.
The emblem upholds the values of:
- Dharma (righteousness)
- Nyaya (justice)
- Satya (truth)
- Shanti (peace)
It signifies the continuity of India's civilizational ethos and the modern democratic state's authority rooted in ethical governance.
Emblem vs Original Sculpture
While based on the Lion Capital of Ashoka, the State Emblem differs slightly:
- The original has four lions and the full lotus base
- The emblem omits the lotus and shows only three visible lions
- The Ashoka Chakra in the emblem is emphasized more prominently as a symbol of governance and justice