The State Emblem of India serves as the national emblem of the Republic of India. It is employed by the central government, various state governments, and other government bodies. The emblem is based on the Lion Capital of Ashoka, a historical sculpture from the Maurya Empire dating to 280 BCE. This three-dimensional emblem features four lions and was adopted as the emblem of the Dominion of India in December 1947, later becoming the emblem of the Republic of India. It functions as the official seal of the Indian government and is featured on official documents, currency, and passports.
The emblem was adopted by the Government of India on January 26, 1950, the day India became a republic. It is modeled after the Lion Capital of Ashoka, originally erected at Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh, India, where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. The emblem displays four Asiatic lions standing back to back, representing power, courage, confidence, and faith. These lions are positioned on a circular base, which itself rests on a lotus. At the center of the base is the Dharmachakra, or wheel of the law, featuring 24 spokes that symbolize the advancement and development of human civilization.
The motto “Satyamēva Jayatē” (translated as “Truth alone triumphs”) is inscribed in Devanagari script beneath the base of the emblem. The usage of the emblem is regulated by the State Emblem of India (Prohibition of Improper Use) Act, 2005, and the State Emblem of India (Regulation of Use) Rules, 2007.