Centre Notifies Detailed Rules on When and How ‘Vande Mataram’ Will Be Played

The Union Home Ministry has issued a fresh set of rules laying down when and how India’s National Song, Vande Mataram, should be played or sung at official events. For the first time, a proper protocol has been introduced for its observance.

 

 

As per the new order, a six-stanza official version of Vande Mataram, with a duration of 3 minutes and 10 seconds, will be used at important state functions. These include the arrival and departure of the President and Governors, flag hoisting ceremonies, and formal government events.

 

 

 

 

The ministry has also clarified that whenever the National Song and the National Anthem are performed together, Vande Mataram must be rendered first in its full six-stanza form.

 

 

According to the guidelines, the National Song will be played during civil investiture ceremonies, when the National Flag is brought on parade, and before and after the President addresses the nation on All India Radio (Akashvani) and television.

 

 

The Home Ministry has further stated that all persons present at such events must stand in an attention posture while Vande Mataram is being played or sung, though this requirement will not extend to venues such as cinema halls.

 

 

 

Officials said the move is aimed at ensuring uniformity and protocol in ceremonial observances across government institutions.