Agartala: Feb 11. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued fresh guidelines mandating that all six stanzas of the National Song Vande Mataram be performed at designated official functions. The directive also states that whenever both the National Song and the National Anthem are rendered together, Vande Mataram must precede Jana Gana Mana.
The move comes as part of commemorative measures marking the 150th anniversary of the composition of Vande Mataram, underscoring its historical and patriotic significance.
According to the new protocol, the complete official version of the National Song must be performed during civil investiture ceremonies and other government-organised functions. It will also be played during the arrival and departure of the President of India at formal state events, as well as immediately before and after the President’s address to the nation broadcast on All India Radio and television.
Similar provisions apply to the arrival and departure of Governors and Lieutenant Governors at official functions within their respective States and Union Territories. The song must also be rendered during ceremonial occasions when the National Flag is brought on parade. The Centre may further direct its performance on additional occasions as deemed necessary.
The guidelines specify that when performed by a ceremonial band, the rendition should begin with a drumroll lasting seven slow marching paces, unless another clear signal indicates the commencement.
The Ministry has also encouraged mass singing of the complete six-stanza version during cultural or ceremonial flag unfurling events, excluding parade ceremonies. Collective singing is recommended during the President’s arrival at public functions and immediately before departure, except at formal state ceremonies.
Schools across the country have been advised to begin the day with community singing of Vande Mataram to promote patriotism among students. Educational institutions are further encouraged to raise awareness about the National Song, National Anthem, and National Flag to foster respect for national symbols.
The MHA stated that the guidelines aim to ensure uniformity and dignity in the observance of the National Song at official events across the country.
