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Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for use of Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) logo

September 20, 2024

Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in advancing national industrial development. These businesses are integral to manufacturing, processing, and producing a wide range of goods and services. Given their significance, the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) often receives requests from industry associations, export promotion councils, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to use its logo for various events. These requests are made without any financial backing or official Ministry endorsement.

 

While the Ministry is keen to support events that advance the MSME sector and highlight its diverse strengths, including the wide array of products and services available, there are important considerations to keep in mind. Granting permission for logo usage requires careful assessment to prevent potential misuse and to ensure that the logo does not inadvertently create misunderstandings or negative perceptions.

Why Use the M/o MSME Logo?

Using the M/o MSME logo can offer several benefits to MSME’s:

  • Enhanced Brand Recognition: Featuring the logo can elevate brand’s visibility and credibility, making it easier for customers and stakeholders to recognize business as part of the MSME sector.
  • Government Endorsement: Displaying the logo can underscore commitment to the development of MSMEs, potentially opening doors to government support, grants, and additional resources.
  • Increased Networking Opportunities: The logo can serve as a valuable tool for connecting with other MSMEs, industry associations, and government officials, paving the way for fruitful collaborations and partnerships.

Categories of Logo Use

I. Automatic approval

The Ministry’s logo may be used without explicit permission in the following cases:

  • M/o MSME Entities: All establishments, offices, and officers of the Ministry.
  • Indian Embassies/Missions Abroad: For events and materials approved under the Ministry’s International Cooperation Scheme.

II. Prior approval for logo use

For other entities, the use of the Ministry’s logo requires prior approval. Requests will be evaluated based on:

  • Event Type: Nature and importance of the event (e.g., seminars, conferences, fairs).
  • Organizer’s Profile: Track record and credibility of the organizers.
  • Participants: Profile of attendees and delegates.
  • Event Offerings: Benefits such as exhibition space or inclusion of Ministry materials.
  • All events for which financial support is extended by the M/o MSME, Government of India

Procedure for grant of permission for use of Ministry’s logo support

  • Submission of request: Requests shall be made to the Joint Secretary (SME) at the Ministry of MSME, Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi – 110011, using the prescribed format.
  • Evaluation of request: Requests will be reviewed based on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and the merits of each case. Approval will be granted by the Joint Secretary (SME).
  • Recommendations: Request will be assessed with recommendations from the MSME-Development and Facilitation Office (MSME-DFO), which must be approved by the Deputy Director General (DDG) or Additional Development Commissioner (ADC) at the Office of DC-MSME. The final approval rests with the Joint Secretary (SME).
  • Additional Information: The Ministry reserves the right to request additional details about your request before making a decision.
  • Advance Notice: Request shall be submitted at least 30 days before the event, including all required details.
  • Right to Withdraw: The Ministry retains the right to withdraw permission for logo use at any time with adequate notice, without providing reasons.
  • Design Review: The Ministry has the right to review and approve the design and layout of the logo usage before it is finalized.
  • Misuse Consequences: Any misuse of the logo could result in the organizer being blacklisted for three years from the date of the communication.

Prohibited Uses:

The logo cannot be used on:

  • Publications, websites, directories, catalogues, letterheads, or visiting cards.
  • Any materials that may mislead the public about the Ministry’s endorsement or credentials.

Conditions for Using the M/o MSME Logo at Events

When granted permission to use the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) logo for an event, several key conditions must be met:

  • Compliance with Legislation: The applicant must adhere to “The Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950” and ensure full compliance.
  • Respect and Prominence: The logo and National Symbol must be treated with the highest respect and given appropriate prominence.
  • Non-commercial Use: The logo can only be used for promotional and non-commercial purposes. It does not grant the right to seek sponsorships or collect money using the M/o MSME name.
  • Event Visibility: The event must prominently feature the Ministry’s name and those of its participating organizations.
  • Dais Participation: For seminars and conferences, a space on the dais should be allocated to Ministry officers, who should also be included as speakers or panellists.
  • Platform Integrity: The event must not be used to promote anti-national activities or make irresponsible statements.
  • Exhibition Space: At exhibitions, the organizer must provide at least one free stall or booth (about 100 sq. ft.) for the Ministry or its participating organizations to showcase their schemes and programs.
  • Feedback Report: A report summarizing the event’s discussions, decisions, and outcomes must be submitted to the Ministry after the event.
  • No Product Promotion: The event should not be used to promote the sale of any specific products.
  • No Financial Support: Permission to use the logo does not include financial assistance or legal commitments from the Ministry.

Adhering to these conditions ensures the proper use of the M/o MSME logo while maintaining its integrity and avoiding any potential misuse

Conclusion

Adhering to these guidelines ensures the effective and respectful use of the M/o MSME logo, preserving its integrity and reinforcing its association with positive developments in the MSME sector. By following this SOP, organizations contribute to the coherent and appropriate representation of the Ministry’s brand and objectives.

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