Who May Use the Andhra Pradesh State Emblem on Letterheads?

The Emblem of Andhra Pradesh (adopted 2014, post-bifurcation) is the official seal of the state government. Its use is governed by the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005 and state guidelines. Unauthorized use is a criminal offense.

Authorized Users

• State Government Departments & Secretariats — all administrative wings.
• Constitutional Bodies: Governor's Office, High Court of Andhra Pradesh, State Election Commission, State Public Service Commission, State Information Commission, Lokayukta.
• Statutory Bodies & Corporations: AP State Road Transport Corp, AP Power Generation Corp, AP Industrial Infrastructure Corp, universities, boards, authorities created by state statute.
• Local Self-Government: Municipal Corporations (Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, etc.), Municipalities, Nagar Panchayats, Zilla Parishads, Mandal Parishads, Gram Panchayats.
• Autonomous Bodies Fully Funded/Controlled by State: Societies, missions, missions (e.g., SERP, MEPMA).

Explicitly Prohibited

• Private companies, NGOs, trusts, individuals.
• Political parties (even ruling party).
• Central government offices (use national emblem).
• Any commercial, promotional, or personal stationery.

Usage Rules

• Exact design, colors, proportions per state brand manual.
• Placement: top center or left on letterhead.
• No modification, animation, distortion.
• Deputed officers on central deputation may use parent department's letterhead with state emblem.

Verification

Contact: General Administration Department (GAD), Government of Andhra Pradesh — issues authorization letters for borderline cases.

The emblem represents sovereign authority of the state. Misuse = legal liability + reputational damage.