The Union home Ministry of india has issued new guidelines requiring that the national song “Vande Mataram” be played or sung before the national anthem “Jana Gana Mana” at all government functions, including official ceremonies and in schools across the country.
Under the new protocol, all six stanzas of Vande Mataram — including the four verses that were previously omitted in many platforms — must be performed. The official rendition lasts about 3 minutes and 10 seconds, and when it is played at formal functions, everyone present must stand at attention.
The directive states that this order applies to occasions such as:
- Government events and official state functions
- School assemblies and ceremonies
- Civilian award ceremonies like the Padma Awards
- Events attended by the President of India, including arrival and departure ceremonies
- Unfurling of the national flag and other ceremonial occasions
The guidelines aim to standardize and formalize the observance of the national song, giving Vande Mataram a defined ceremonial position relative to Jana Gana Mana. It clarifies that when both are played at the same event, Vande Mataram should be rendered first.
However, standing is not required when Vande Mataram is played as part of a film screening or other entertainment settings, to avoid disruptions.
This move forms part of the government’s broader efforts to promote respect for national symbols and formalize protocols around them.
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