New Delhi | RBN News
The Ministry of Home Affairs has released comprehensive guidelines governing the observance and performance of India’s National Song, Vande Mataram. The directive specifies that whenever the National Song and the National Anthem are performed together, the complete six-stanza official version of ‘Vande Mataram’ must be rendered first.
Mandatory Use of Full Official Version
As per the new instructions, the entire six-stanza version of the officially adopted composition is to be sung or played on significant State occasions. These include:
- The arrival and departure of the President
- Civil Investiture ceremonies
- The unfurling of the National Flag
- Formal functions attended by Governors
- Official government-organised events of ceremonial importance
The Ministry clarified that the prescribed version must be used uniformly to ensure standardisation across official events.
Broadcast Protocols
The guidelines further state that the National Song should be played:
- Immediately before and after the President’s address to the Nation broadcast via All India Radio (Akashvani) and national television networks
- When the National Flag is brought on parade
These measures aim to reinforce ceremonial dignity and maintain uniformity in national observances.
Conduct During Rendition
The Home Ministry has also instructed that all individuals present during assemblies where Vande Mataram is performed must stand in an attention posture, reflecting respect and decorum.
Objective of the Guidelines
Officials indicated that the move is intended to:
- Standardise the protocol for the National Song
- Eliminate ambiguity regarding its official version
- Strengthen ceremonial consistency at State functions
The directive underscores the symbolic and historical significance of Vande Mataram in India’s national identity.
